Heath Ledger Painting Wins Australian Art Award

Fri, 09 May 2008 01:24:58 ET

Portrait of Heath Ledger which was made by his friend, Vincent Fantauzzo, has won the Australian Archibald Prize.

It is such a touching news for Heath Ledger's family and fans that the actor's portrait called "Heath" has won the people's choice award at Australia's Archibald Prize exhibition on Thursday, May 8. Though it was awarded for secondary prize, it still can move the heart of people who love him.

It was Vincent Fantauzzo, Heath's friend, who painted the artsy portrait in December 2007, shortly before his tragic death. He depicted the "Brokeback Mountain" actor bare-chested with his other two images try to whisper into his ears.

Vincent said that the win is very important to him and he would love to thank Heath and his family for their support. "I think this painting was extra special because Heath and I really collaborated and we took the idea really seriously. I'd like to thank Heath and also Heath's family for all of their support during the exhibition," he revealed.

Moreover, Vincent received a $2,500 and $1,000 gift certificate from the award. According to a spokesperson for the Art Gallery of New South Wales where the competition was held, Heath's family and the artist will donate the painting to the gallery.

There were more than 32,000 people voted on the competition, which is considered as one of Australia's most prominent art prizes. The first winner of the competition is Sydney artist Del Kathryn Barton with her self-portrait.

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