'A New Beginning' is a finalist in the inaugural Darling Portrait Prize

The Darling Portrait Prize, hosted by Australia's national Portrait Gallery in Canberra is Australia’s grand new annual prize for painted portraits. Dagmar Cyrulla's portrait of Paris based Australian fashion designer, Kym Ellery is a finalist. The artist's statement follows :

"Kym Ellery is the founder of "Ellery". She is part Maori and grew up in Karratha, WA. With nothing but ambition and courage she conceived her fashion label which has taken her to the Runway of Paris. Her work is sought after by artists such as Rihanna and Cate Blanchett. Recently, she has had to focus internationally and close her business in Australia. She has been criticised for this. I know her as Kym; warm, strong, funny, elegant and courageous. I want others to see her like that and to be proud to have her as another amazing Australian woman."