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The National Portrait Gallery acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and to Elders both past and present.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander viewers are warned that this website contains images of deceased persons.

Holding space, 2025

Adam Edwards

National Photographic Portrait Prize 2026 Finalist

pigment photographic print (sight: 58.0cm x 103.0cm. frame: 88.8cm x 134.0cm depth 1.8cm)

‘Jason, my close friend, was photographed at day’s edge, the sun behind him casting his figure into silhouette. In his hand is a small keepsake, a reminder of Jordan, his daughter, who died by suicide. Jason is creating a documentary about his experience, telling his story in his own words, and pushing back against the silence that often surrounds suicide and grief. I made this portrait in open country to hold space for that work, and the weight of what cannot be undone.’

Adam Edwards lives and works on Wilyakali Country in Broken Hill, New South Wales. He takes inspiration from the stories of people in regional Australia as well as the rugged beauty and charm of the outback.

People's Choice Award

National Photographic Portrait Prize 2026

The People’s Choice Award is generously supported by the Calvert-Jones Foundation, with the artist who wins the most votes receiving $10,000.

Voting closes Wednesday 30 September 2026.

National Photographic Portrait Prize 2026

© National Portrait Gallery 2026
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The National Portrait Gallery acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and to Elders past and present. We respectfully advise that this site includes works by, images of, names of, voices of and references to deceased people.

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