Organisers of the Ballarat International Foto Biennale have announced Bronwyn Kidd as the winner of the 2025 Martin Kantor Portrait Prize for her portrait of renowned photographer, Polly Borland.
Bronwyn Kidd pictured with her winning portrait of renowned photographer, Polly Borland. (Source: BIFB).
The Martin Kantor Portrait Prize provides an outstanding opportunity for photo media artists to showcase their talent and have their work viewed at one of the most prestigious photographic events in Australia. The prize is acquisitive, with the first prize of $15,000 awarded to the most exceptional portrait. Martin Kantor was a photographer and philanthropist known for his arresting portraits of famous musicians and artists like Iggy Pop, Grace Jones, Paul Kelly, painter Adam Cullen, Howard Arkley and conceptual artist Dale Frank. The Australian band, Hunters and Collectors used his image of the lead singer, Mark Seymour, for an album cover that is a classic representation of Australian rock and roll. Martin founded the well-known St Kilda gallery, Brightspace and strongly supported environmental causes, First Nations and reconciliation.
Kidd’s portrait was selected from 20 finalists chosen by the judging panel, made up of Natasha Bullock, Senior Curator, National Gallery of Victoria; Alexander Robinson, Director, Photoaccess and Stephen Payne, Creative Activation Producer, Ballarat International Foto Biennale. The exhibition will continue until 19 October. Click here for more information.
