In a poignant reflection of resilience and identity, Michael Zavros’s painting, *Alex with his Tefillin in the Sea*, has garnered the People’s Choice Award at the 2026 Archibald Prize. This remarkable piece, depicting Jewish leader Alex Ryvchin, comes in the wake of the Bondi terror attack, resonating deeply with both the Jewish community and the wider Australian populace. The award, which carries a prize of $5,000, is a testament to Zavros’s skill and the emotional weight of his subject matter, as evidenced by a record-breaking 45,769 votes cast this year.
A Portrait Born of Respect and Resilience
Michael Zavros, a self-taught artist, expressed that his inspiration for the portrait stemmed from a profound admiration for Ryvchin’s leadership within the Jewish community. Zavros noted an uncanny resemblance between himself and Ryvchin, which further motivated him to capture the essence of the co-head of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry.
“A few years ago, my mother thought she saw me on TV, but it wasn’t. It was Alex,” Zavros reflected. “As a natural leader, he spoke with clarity and conviction about the grief within his community and the changes he feared were emerging in our nation.” This sentiment underscores the importance of representation in art, particularly during periods of societal upheaval.
The portrait was conceived shortly after a meeting between the two men at a Sydney beach, merely weeks following the tragedy in Bondi. Zavros explained, “I wanted to paint him in water, or the sea, which carries so much rich symbolism.” The inclusion of the tefillin—a small black leather box containing Torah scrolls—further amplifies the piece’s significance, intertwining faith with identity.
The Symbolism of Tefillin
In Jewish tradition, tefillin represent a tangible connection to faith and heritage, serving as a reminder of millennia of customs and beliefs. For Ryvchin, the tefillin hold personal weight, embodying memories of a loved one lost in the Bondi attack. “It’s something that binds Jewish people to thousands of years of custom, it binds us to our almighty, and for me personally, binds me to someone who was very dear to me,” he stated. This powerful connection illustrates the role of art in processing grief and celebrating communal bonds.
Ryvchin’s reflections on the loss he endured resonate with many who have faced similar challenges, making Zavros’s painting not just a portrayal but a vessel for shared experience and remembrance.
Celebrating Diverse Heritage
Interestingly, Zavros’s journey of self-discovery has taken an unexpected turn. A DNA test revealed his Ashkenazi Jewish heritage alongside his Greek and Irish ancestry, prompting him to explore a part of his identity he had previously been unaware of. “It’s worth reminding ourselves how fortunate we are to live in this great Western liberal democracy,” he remarked, highlighting the narratives of migration and resilience that define so many Australians today.
The Archibald Prize continues to celebrate not only artistic merit but also the stories woven into each canvas. This year, Richard Lewer took home the prestigious $100,000 award for his portrait of artist Iluwanti Ken, while the Packing Room Prize was awarded to Sean Layh for his depiction of actor Jacob Collins. Concurrently, the Wynne and Sulman Prizes showcased the breadth of talent within Australia’s artistic community, with Gaypalani Waṉambi and Lucy Culliton earning accolades for their respective works.
A Record Year for the Archibald Prize
This year’s competition saw a remarkable 2,524 entries across the Archibald, Wynne, and Sulman prizes, illustrating a vibrant and diverse artistic landscape. The exhibition at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, open until 16 August, showcases the finalists and their works, leading to a regional tour across Victoria and New South Wales, ensuring that these narratives reach audiences far and wide.
Why it Matters
The significance of Zavros’s portrait extends beyond its artistic value; it serves as a beacon of hope and solidarity in the face of tragedy. As Australia grapples with the ramifications of violence and division, art emerges as a crucial medium for connection and understanding. Through Zavros’s work, the legacy of resilience and the celebration of cultural identity are powerfully reaffirmed, reminding us all of the strength found in community and shared heritage. The Archibald Prize continues to be a vital platform for such expressions, fostering dialogue and reflection in an ever-evolving society.
