TRACEY MOFFATT

Roslyn Oxley 9 Gallery, Sydney
Private collection

The photograph appears to be in very good condition and it has not been taken out of the frame and mount and inspected in its entirety.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

David Gulpilil, one of Australia's most famous Indigenous actors, is depicted as the stereotypical Australian male surfer. All the trappings of the photograph indicate the Australian archetype. The setting is the most famous beach in the country, the sitter's accoutrements include a ghetto-blaster, a can of a popular Australian beer in his hand and a car; and he wears fashionable board shorts. The image would be one of the epitome of Australian maleness, except that the sitter wears a traditional ritual design painted across his face, instead of sun-resistant cream, and his skin is black.

This photograph is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Australia and the National Portrait Gallery, Canberra.