Robert James Lee Hawke AC (1929–2019) was Australia's 23rd prime minister and remains the longest-serving Labor prime minister in Australia's history. In 1980, he won the seat of Wills in the Federal election; in early 1983, within weeks of challenging for the party leadership, he led the ALP to their greatest election win in 40 years. He led the Party to victory for a record four terms, but is equally remembered for moments such as his public reaction to Australia's victory in the 1983 America's Cup. As prime minister, Hawke oversaw the enactment of landmark legislation such as the Sex Discrimination Act 1984 and the World Heritage Properties Conservation Act 1983. In December 1991, he was defeated by Paul Keating in a ballot for the party leadership. In retirement, the 'Silver Bodgie' held a number of directorships in the business sector while also remaining active in the Labor movement.
In 2012, Luke Cornish (also known as ELK) went to Hawke's apartment overlooking Sydney Harbour to take photographs in preparation for this work. His portrait depicts Hawke as he appeared that day, his trademark ravaged tan set off by his white outfit, gold chain and lively platinum hair.
Purchased 2013
© Luke Cornish
The National Portrait Gallery respects the artistic and intellectual property rights of others. Works of art from the collection are reproduced as per the
Australian Copyright Act 1968 (Cth). The use of images of works from the collection may be restricted under the Act. Requests for a reproduction of a work of art can be made through a
Reproduction request. For further information please contact
NPG Copyright.
