About the exhibition
Brisbane Portrait Prize celebrates the stories and lives of the people of Meanjin/Brisbane. Whether depicting public figures, friends, family members, or the self, these portraits invite us to pause and consider the uniqueness of the individuals who make up our city.
The exhibition showcases the talent of Brisbane’s artists and their ability to create connection. From hyper realistic paintings that capture minute detail, to abstracted forms that distil personality through gestural lines, to photographs that freeze a moment in time; this year’s portraits invite quiet contemplation.
As you explore this year's finalists, we invite you to pause with each portrait, and Stare into the Soul of Brisbane.
View all 2025 finalists at Brisbane Portrait Prize 2025 online gallery
Free exhibition
20 September – 9 November 2025
slq Gallery, level 2
Horse
by Geraldine Brooks
Hachette Australia
The Vanishing Point
by Andrea Hotere
Ultimo Press
The Marriage Portrait
by Maggie O'Farrell
Hachette Australia
The Sitter
by Angela O'Keeffe
UQP
The Burnished Sun
Mirandi Riwoe
UQP
On Beauty
by Zadie Smith
Penguin Books
Discover the power of photographic portraiture to communicate beyond the appearance of subjects.
A series of intimate conversations with 35 of Australia’s most acclaimed artists.
Explore the work of three contemporary Aboriginal photographers; Michael Aird, Jo-Anne Driessens and Naomi Hobson.