Tasha Rogoff, a 15-year-old from Dover Heights, has been awarded the top prize in her age category in the national Young Archie 2025 portrait competition for her painting of her grandfather.
Recognition in National Art Competition
Tasha Rogoff of Dover Heights has won the 13–15 years category in the Young Archie 2025 portrait competition, hosted by the Art Gallery of New South Wales. The competition, now in its 13th year, invites young artists across Australia to create portraits of someone meaningful in their lives.
Photo Credit: Art of Gallery NSW
Winning Entry: A Portrait of Purpose
Ms Rogoff’s winning work, “What are you doing with that box?” depicts her grandfather and his creative use of everyday containers, such as cereal boxes and pill jars. The artwork highlights his habit of repurposing discarded objects, offering a broader message about environmental care and the value of small things often overlooked.
Ongoing Artistic Involvement
This is not Ms Rogoff’s first entry in the Young Archie. At age 10, she submitted a portrait titled “Gaga phones home” in the 9–12 years category. That earlier work showed her grandmother in her home environment, surrounded by artworks and antiques, while struggling to navigate a mobile phone. Across both works, Ms Rogoff has maintained a focus on personal relationships and generational stories.
Photo Credit: Art of Gallery NSW
Judging and Display
The 2025 competition attracted over 3200 submissions from across the country. A panel led by artist Jumaadi and the gallery’s family programs manager selected 70 finalists across four age categories. Ms Rogoff’s portrait is among the winning works now on display in the John Kaldor Family Hall of the Art Gallery’s Naala Badu building until 17 August.
Community Response
Online responses to the announcement praised Ms Rogoff’s ability to capture her grandfather’s personality and the portrait’s environmental message. Many noted the expressive detail and relatability of the subject matter.
Exhibition and Prizes
Finalists and winners received cash prizes, art packs, and exhibition catalogues. Ms Rogoff’s portrait is displayed alongside works from the Archibald, Wynne and Sulman Prizes 2025. Entry to the exhibition is free and open to the public.
Published 14-July-2025