Principal gains immortality

Bulli High School’s version of the Archibald Prize has spawned an imposing painting of the school’s own Principal.

It is an ongoing annual tradition at the school that Year 11 students find a subject, often teachers and other students, and paint their portrait for the school’s unofficial Archibald exhibition.

This year Principal Bruce Sander had the honour of being immortalised on canvas after student Jordan Wilkinson decided she wanted him as a subject.

Mr Sander said he was subjected to a fairly invasive photo shoot before Ms Wilkinson went away and got painting.

“She has almost used a wide angle approach to it, it’s a very strong image and the original pose was done from a very close range, like the (camera) lens was ten inches from my face,” he said.

“I guess it’s her interpretation…she didn’t let me smile.

“I’m quite a happy person but she wanted a strong look rather than a happy look.”

Despite this Mr Sander seems fairly pleased with the result.

“It’s a very striking and confronting portrait,” he said.

At least two other students chose teachers for their subjects for the portraits, which will be exhibited to staff, students and parents in the school’s ‘art gallery’ in the foyer of the creative arts building.

Deputy Principal Lou Tome said the students always impress with the calibre of portraits produced for the competition.

“We’re always astounded by the quality of work they produce,” he said.

He said it is just one way the school hopes to inspire students.

“It’s a way of inspiring the kids and the school has a very long tradition of outstanding work in visual arts – it’s just another means of allowing kids to have a medium to display their great artwork.”

Mr Sander didn’t know what would happen to the portrait once the exhibition was over, but some have suggested that he place it in his office to watch over the students when he goes away.