Melbourne-based photographer and documentary filmmaker Hoda Afshar has claimed the prestigious National Photographic Portrait Prize for the second time, earning the $50,000 award with a compelling image that confronts Australia's treatment of First Nations children. The winning photograph, titled "Untitled 01" from her 2024 series "Code Black/Riot," was announced on Friday and has been described as a "defiantly beautiful" portrayal that challenges viewers to examine social justice issues.
Afshar's victory marks her second win of this significant national competition, establishing her as one of Australia's most recognized contemporary photographers. The award-winning image is part of her broader documentary work that explores themes of identity, displacement, and social inequality through powerful visual storytelling.
The "Code Black/Riot" series, from which the winning photograph is drawn, represents Afshar's continued commitment to highlighting marginalized communities and bringing attention to critical social issues through her artistic lens. Her work consistently challenges audiences to confront uncomfortable truths about contemporary Australian society, particularly regarding the treatment and representation of Indigenous youth.
The National Photographic Portrait Prize is one of Australia's most prestigious photography competitions, attracting submissions from professional and amateur photographers across the country. The substantial prize money of $50,000 reflects the competition's significance in the Australian arts landscape and provides crucial support for emerging and established artists alike.
Afshar's recognition comes at a time when discussions about First Nations rights and representation continue to evolve in Australian society. Her artistic approach combines technical excellence with powerful social commentary, creating images that serve both as works of art and as catalysts for important conversations about justice and equality.
