Katherine Edney Self-portrait with Ariel

‘Self -portrait with Ariel is based on an image taken of me when I was 37 weeks pregnant with my first child, Ariel. Little did I know then I would give birth to my daughter just one week later. My world was about to change forever, and earlier than expected!’ says Katherine Edney.

‘I had been documenting my body’s changes throughout my pregnancy, as I was in awe of the strength of the female body and its extraordinary capabilities. I wanted to capture this physical and psychological transformation, while also revealing my vulnerability. I have always battled migraines and anxiety and for the first time I had never felt better. It was my desire to portray this ethereal state of tranquillity and overwhelming sense of calm and wellness. I chose to capture this private moment on a relatively small scale, so that the work could remain intimate for the viewer.’

Born in 1983 in Sydney, Edney was a finalist in the Brett Whiteley Travelling Art Scholarship in 2012 and 2011, the Portia Geach Memorial Award in 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Kilgour Prize in 2016 and the Ravenswood Australian Women’s Art Prize in 2019 and 2018. This is her first time in the Archibald Prize.