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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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Mother's Day 2020, 2020

Kim Tonelli

Living Memory Finalist

The threat of the coronavirus is creating unprecedented fear and uncertainty for everyone. The elderly are particularly vulnerable and lonely during the time of quarantine. I am in lockdown with Mum in our family home. Mum is 80; she is experiencing an unfamiliar sense of fear and isolation. Cleaning her home gives her a sense of order and control, and tending her garden provides solace during this time of uncertainty. Her quirky belongings give her an enormous sense of comfort and companionship. As a widow, she misses her husband – always her protector – and prays persistently for these challenging times to end.

Courtesy of the artist
© The artist

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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.

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