Full Story Gina: The portrait – episode 5
Dec 25, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Bruce Johnson-McLean, a curator of First Nations art at the National Gallery of Australia, delves into the viral portrait of Gina Rinehart. He explores how the artwork reflects power dynamics and colonial history, while offering insights into the gallery's decision to retain it despite backlash. The conversation also touches on Rinehart's influence in sports sponsorship and its implications on athlete advocacy. Bruce highlights the importance of art in challenging wealth and power, and connects it to the legacy of Vincent Namajira.
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Art Sparks A National Conversation
- Vincent Namajira's portrait of Gina Rinehart became a viral cultural moment that provoked global attention.
- The controversy revealed tensions between artistic expression and wealthy influence in national institutions.
Attempt To Remove The Portrait Backfires
- Gina Rinehart wrote to National Gallery figures demanding the portrait's removal and spurred 26 complaints.
- Her attempt to erase the work backfired when visitor numbers and viral attention surged.
Wealth Rewires Sports Funding
- Gina Rinehart became Australia's largest private funder of swimming at a time of crisis after London 2012.
- Direct salary payments and medal bonuses created unusually personal ties between benefactor and athletes.