Nila Mansouri

Willetton Senior High School

Year 12

Oil paint on canvas

100 x 75 x 4 cm

My portrait presents me as central to my immediate environment. What initially seems like ironic imagery, the merging of Persian mythology and Australian iconography, represents a union and a sense of belonging in the intermediate space between two cultures. My work is inspired by Kehinde Wiley who combines historical portraiture with contemporary emblems, often appropriating classical paintings. This is evident in my pose and title, rather like ‘Girl with the Pearl Earring’ by Johannes Vermeer. My artwork is aimed at other immigrants whose cultures may similarly influence their identity and perception by self and society.