Dimensions
About the artwork
Elizabeth Barden was fortunate to have a sitting with Margot McKinney in her Brisbane Jewellery Emporium, at the beginning of March just prior to significant Covid-19 lockdowns. A great admirer of McKinney, Barden says, “Margot is seemingly effortlessly elegant and I hope to have presented a sincere glimpse of her essence and character.”
About the sitter
Margot McKinney is a fourth generation jeweller. The signature emerald green of her Brisbane emporium is the backdrop to breathtaking displays of extravagant gems. Her unique designs have received acclaim nationally and internationally. Margot is passionate about her exotic collections and draws inspiration from the beauty of Australia.
About the artist
Elizabeth Barden was born in Brisbane in 1965 and currently lives in Cairns. She has been a six time finalist in the prestigious Portia Geach Memorial Prize, a finalist in the Lethbridge 10,000 Award and twice a finalist in the Shirley Hannan National Portrait Prize in which she was awarded People’s Choice. Her work is represented in private and public collections nationally and internationally, including her portrait of Christine Anu Waiting For Zipporah in the Australian National Portrait Gallery in Canberra.
“I wanted to portray Margot's effortless and natural elegance, with the inclusion of her signature baroque pearls. I could not have been more elated with her positive response.”
Behind the scenes
Margot McKinney is a fourth generation jeweller. She says she was drawn to the business ‘like a moth to a flame’.
Margot is known for her one of a kind statement pieces, which are finely crafted after her carefully sourced selection. Margot’s designs often take on a classic look with a colourful and unique twist- the earring set she wore for the sitting comprises of contrasting feature gems. The green background references her iconic Emporium in Fortitude Valley.
I wanted to portray Margot’s effortless and natural elegance, with the inclusion of her signature baroque pearls. I could not have been more elated with her positive response.
I am honoured to be a finalist in the Brisbane Portrait Prize, 2020.
