Artist Aaron Moore has won the Territory's most prestigious portrait art award - the 2025 Portrait of a Senior Territorian award for his artwork 'Reflecting on the Darwin years - Bill Davies', a portrait of sign writer and artist Bill Davies.
Judges praised Mr Moore's use of diverse painting techniques, which seamlessly integrated into an artwork filled with surprises; a closer look revealing a crocodile, a boat, fire and a wet season storm.
Alice Cirrottola was awarded second prize for her portrait of Robert Joel Cooper titled 'Fishing Trip'. Janelle Fisher received third prize for her portrait of Professor Phillip Carson. The Young Artist Award went to Lara Penney for her Portrait of Gwen Draper.
Prize winners were selected by local judges and artists Rod Moss and Pip McManus.
The Selfie with a Senior Award, which invites participants to submit a photo with a senior along with a statement on how the senior has inspired them, was won by Rachel Jericho for her photo with senior Gary Prior. Runners-up were Bethany Earnshaw with senior Margaret Earnshaw and Nicola Pitt with senior Betty Davies.
Minister for People, Sport and Culture, Jinson Charls, said: "The Portrait of a Senior Territorian continues to showcase the Territory's remarkable artistic talent while honouring the wisdom and legacy of senior Territorians.
"This year's exhibition is a powerful celebration of connection - to place and to the stories that shape our communities.
"Congratulations to this year's winner, Aaron Moore for his incredible depiction of sign writer and artist Bill Davies."
Tactile Arts General Manager Aneka Truman said: "Every year the quality of work presented for the Portrait of the Senior Territorian Art Award is outstanding.
"Many of the artworks feature a deep emotional connection to the Northern Territory. This element, alongside the special seniors (that have often done so much for their local community) makes engaging with the artworks an experience on many levels.
"This year it is really special to have the exhibition showcased at Araluen Arts Centre in Alice Springs, creating a fantastic opportunity for Central Australian artists to get involved with the awards."
Now in its 26th year and held annually during Seniors Month, the Portrait of a Senior Territorian exhibition will be on display at the Araluen Arts Centre in Alice Springs from Saturday 12 July to Sunday 17 August 2025.
Members of the public are encouraged to vote for the People's Choice Award, either in person at the Araluen Arts Centre or online at Vote for the People's Choice Award - Portrait of a Senior Territorian Art Award here.
The People's Choice winner will receive $1,000, to be announced on Tuesday 19 August 2025.
