The prestigious Archibald Prize, Australia’s premier award for portraiture, has once again captivated the art world with its exploration of identity, creativity, and cultural connection. This year, the Packing Room Prize, which is awarded to the best portrait in the eyes of the prize’s gallery staff, was presented to Abdul Abdullah for his stunning portrait of fellow artist Jason Phu, titled No Mountain High Enough. The work is a powerful representation of Phu, known for his vibrant artistic practice and his role in shaping contemporary Australian art. Abdullah’s portrait stands out not only for its aesthetic merit but also for its deep, personal connection between the artist and the subject.
Abdul Abdullah, an artist whose work often explores themes of identity, race, and culture, has established himself as a leading figure in the Australian art scene. Known for his compelling visual narratives and emotive use of color, Abdullah has consistently challenged the conventions of portraiture, bringing new perspectives and a unique voice to the genre. His portrayal of Jason Phu reflects not only his skill as a portrait artist but also the bonds of camaraderie and shared experience between the two artists.
No Mountain High Enough presents a striking image of Phu, capturing his contemplative demeanor and his signature sense of style. Abdullah uses vivid colors and bold brushstrokes to create a dynamic and modern depiction, which speaks to both Phu’s personality and his artistic ethos. The portrait is a celebration of Phu’s work and his impact on the Australian art world. Phu, known for his playful yet introspective approach to painting, often explores themes of self-identity and personal history, and Abdullah’s portrait encapsulates this ethos perfectly.
The Archibald Prize, which has been awarded annually since 1921, has a long-standing tradition of highlighting the best in Australian portraiture. It is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious art awards in the country, attracting artists from all over Australia and beyond. The Packing Room Prize is an important part of the competition, as it is voted on by the gallery staff who unpack and handle the artworks upon their arrival. While the Archibald itself is judged by a panel of eminent art professionals, the Packing Room Prize offers a more direct, sometimes playful, and often refreshingly honest reflection of the public’s perception of the portraits. It is a coveted honor and one that has launched the careers of many artists.
Jason Phu, a former winner of the prestigious Fleurieu Art Prize for Landscape, has garnered a reputation for his ability to bridge cultures and influences. His work is deeply personal yet universally relatable, often exploring his Vietnamese heritage and the complexities of living between cultures. As Phu continues to push the boundaries of his artistic practice, his collaboration with Abdul Abdullah on this portrait highlights their mutual respect for each other’s work and their shared commitment to exploring contemporary issues through art.
Abdullah’s win in the Packing Room Prize is also a testament to the importance of artist solidarity in the contemporary Australian art scene. Both Abdullah and Phu are part of a growing cohort of artists whose work challenges societal norms and questions the status quo. Their collaboration, however symbolic it may be, underscores the evolving nature of Australian art and its ability to embrace diverse cultural narratives. No Mountain High Enough is more than just a portrait; it is a statement about the power of artistic expression to bring people together and reflect the complexity of identity.
The Archibald Prize has long been known for its diversity of submissions, ranging from highly stylized representations to deeply personal portrayals. Abdullah’s portrait of Phu is a prime example of this range. It is not merely a traditional likeness; it is an exploration of character, spirit, and connection. The Packing Room Prize, which recognizes Abdullah’s efforts, not only celebrates the artist’s skill but also reinforces the role of portraiture in exploring and documenting the essence of individuals and their place within the broader cultural landscape.
The reaction to Abdullah’s win has been overwhelmingly positive, with many art critics praising the way the portrait captures not only Phu’s likeness but also his soul. The vivid colors and the energy of the piece communicate Phu’s dynamic presence, inviting viewers to consider the layers of identity and experience that shape the subject. Through Abdullah’s interpretation, Phu is presented not just as an artist, but as a person whose story is worth telling in visual form.
Looking forward, Abdul Abdullah’s No Mountain High Enough will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the standout works of the 2025 Archibald Prize. It serves as a testament to the power of portraiture to go beyond mere representation and to serve as a vehicle for deeper, more meaningful narratives. Through this portrait, Abdullah has elevated the genre of portraiture and continued his journey as one of Australia’s most important contemporary artists.
