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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.

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Michael Hutchence

1997
Polly Borland

from the series ‘Australians’
type C photograph on paper (image: 49.4 cm x 39.3 cm)

Michael Hutchence (1960 - 1997) was the charismatic lead singer of the rock band INXS, whose first album, INXS, was released in 1980. The group was quick to pursue success overseas and by 1985, when Hutchence starred in the film Dogs in Space, they were contenders in the competitive US music arena. They were the only Australian group to play at the historic Live Aid concert in the early 80s and are credited with facilitating the subsequent international success of Australian bands such as Midnight Oil and Crowded House. By 1988 INXS was arguably the most successful Australian band ever with sales of their sixth album, Kick, around 7.5 million worldwide and a world rating of third most popular group. Their success continued with their 1991 albums Live Baby Live and X. Hutchence died in the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Double Bay in November 1997.

Purchased 2000
© Polly Borland

The National Portrait Gallery respects the artistic and intellectual property rights of others. Works of art from the collection are reproduced as per the Australian Copyright Act 1968 (Cth). The use of images of works from the collection may be restricted under the Act. Requests for a reproduction of a work of art can be made through a Reproduction request. For further information please contact NPG Copyright.

Artist and subject

Polly Borland (age 38 in 1997)

Michael Hutchence (age 37 in 1997)

Subject professions

Performing arts

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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.

This website comprises and contains copyrighted materials and works. Copyright in all materials and/or works comprising or contained within this website remains with the National Portrait Gallery and other copyright owners as specified.

The National Portrait Gallery respects the artistic and intellectual property rights of others. The use of images of works of art reproduced on this website and all other content may be restricted under the Australian Copyright Act 1968 (Cth). Requests for a reproduction of a work of art or other content can be made through a Reproduction request. For further information please contact NPG Copyright.

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