Media Release
Shane Warne Portrait Joins Victorian Icons in State Library of Victoria
22 October 2007
A portrait of Shane Warne has gone on display today in the State Library of Victoria alongside materials from Victorian icons such as Ned Kelly, John Batman, William Buckley, and Burke and Wills.
The painting by Victorian artist David Ralph celebrates Warne’s world record-breaking 533rd Test wicket in Chennai, India. It is the only portrait Warne has sat for in Australia and one of only two he has sat for in the world (the other being in the Long Room of Lords, England).
Shane Carmody, Director of Collection and Access at the State Library of Victoria, says this portrait is a significant addition to the Library’s portrait collection.
‘The State Library has a large collection of portraits of prominent Victorians, and as the greatest cricketer of his generation, Shane Warne is a fitting addition to this historical record. The picture is significant because it was made whilst Warne was at the peak of his career as a cricketer and is a celebration of his record breaking achievement. Sporting figures are often commemorated in portraits or sculptures after they have retired or, in some cases, only after their death - it is so much better to have this work on display while the memories of Warne's achievements are fresh in our minds,’ he said.
The State Library of Victoria has a practice, where possible, of supporting living artists. David Ralph is becoming well known for his evocative landscapes and images of ordinary life. He is also a very talented portraitist, with his compelling image of Adam Elliot being exhibited in the Archibald Prize exhibition in 2005. His portrait of Warne could not qualify for the Archibald because it is limited to portraits of men or women distinguished in 'Arts, Letters, Science or Politics'.
David Ralph’s portrait of Shane Warne was purchased with the assistance of the State Library of Victoria Foundation and will hang in the State Library’s newspaper reading room.
Media inquiries and images
Matthew van Hasselt
Media relations coordinator
State Library of Victoria
Phone: 03 8664 7263
Email: mvanhasselt@slv.vic.gov.au
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