Vincent Namatjira Self Portrait in P.P.F (Past-Present-Future)

In Vincent Namatjira's Foyer Wall Commission titled "P.P.F. (Past-Present-Future)", the Western Aranda artist has assembled 7 figures significant to his life and practice in a large-scale ‘heroes narrative’. The work is semi-autobiographical – the artist states that each of the men represented on the wall have inspired him, and remind him of who he is.

This painting includes a self portrait of the artist holding an Aboriginal flag.

“This image is me pointing out to the Sydney Harbour, and I’m holding the Aboriginal flag. Here, the self-portrait brings the past and the present together, since I’m standing on the roof of my great-grandfather’s famous green truck. It’s past and present, and then pointing forward is like looking to the future; a strong, hopeful future for Indigenous Australians. The Aboriginal flag for me represents pride, resilience and recognition.”