WHAT character portrait painting

This painting was a finalist in the 2018 Doug Moran National Portrait Prize and is titled “What”
The painting is about how images are co-opted and misrepresented particularly in the meme culture where you see images given poster tag lines for example, or you see these weird gifs taken out of movies and the expression are meant to mean something profound politically on twitter or alike. Images are more disposable and swiped right or left into the trash bin or co-opted for purposes beyond their original creation and we are flooded more and more with the confusion ever increasing image use. The truth and intent of an image can sometimes be important and something worth considering.
So the portrait is intentionally vague but dramatic opening up discussion of the potential meaning of the pose and the accompanying red

Andrew Neilan – Contemporary Art for Interior Design Projects

Andrew Neilan is an Australian contemporary artist creating original artworks designed for interior design, styling, and commercial projects. His work is collected by interior designers seeking refined, versatile art that integrates seamlessly into curated spaces.

With a focus on balance, atmosphere, and scale, Andrew’s artworks are ideal for residential interiors, hospitality spaces, workplaces, and design-led commercial environments. Each piece is created to enhance a space rather than compete with it.

Art for Residential & Commercial Interiors

Andrew Neilan’s original artworks are frequently suited to:

Interior design and styling projects

Residential homes and apartments

Hospitality, hotel, and short-stay interiors

Corporate offices and creative workspaces

His work complements modern, minimalist, coastal, and architectural interiors, making it easy for designers to specify across a range of briefs.

Designer-Friendly Contemporary Art

Andrew creates original contemporary art with interior placement in mind. His work features considered colour palettes, strong composition, and subtle texture, allowing designers to confidently specify pieces that photograph well and age beautifully in a space.

Key qualities designers value:

Neutral and adaptable colour tones

Strong impact at scale

Clean, contemporary aesthetic

One-of-a-kind original artworks

Each artwork works as a focal point or layered element within a broader design scheme.

Original Art, Ready to Install

All artworks by Andrew Neilan are original, professionally finished, and ready to hang. Sizes are clearly listed, and works are suitable for both private and commercial installation.

Interior designers purchasing through Bluethumb benefit from:

Direct access to the artist

Reliable national delivery

Secure purchasing for client projects

Authentic Australian-made artwork

Andrew is open to working with designers on artwork selection to ensure the right fit for scale, tone, and placement.

Specify Original Art by Andrew Neilan

For interior designers seeking contemporary Australian art that delivers clarity, cohesion, and visual confidence, Andrew Neilan offers original artworks that elevate interiors without overwhelming them.

Browse available works to find a piece that aligns seamlessly with your next design project.