The Guardian: Portrait of a mentor: ‘granddaddy of National Art School campus finds himself the subject

The Guardian: Portrait of a mentor: ‘granddaddy of National Art School campus finds himself the subject

Article by Ben Doherty

“When you paint someone you know, it is not just a subject, it’s someone you have a connection with. I wanted to capture that soul, that person, the generosity that everyone sees in him. I hope I have done that.” – Lesley Wengembo

The Guardian Australia speak with current student Lesley Wengembo and the subject of his Archibald Prize entry, NAS Campus Assistant Mal Nabogi about the National Art School, Wengembo’s practice and Nabogi’s positive influence special connection to all students on campus.

Read more through the link below.

Image: National Art School student Lesley Wengembo with Mal Nabogi, standing, the subject of his Archibald prize entry. Photo: Carly Earl/The Guardian

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We are pleased to announce that applications are now open for the Prudence MacLeod Prize. 

The Prudence MacLeod Prize, which will continue for a further three years, supports a recent National Art School graduate to undertake a six-month residency at @acme.art, London.

Supported by the Lansdowne Foundation, the Prize provides an emerging artist with an opportunity to step forward into an expanded, international context at a vital time in their career. The artist will live and work in London, one of the world's great art cities, in a supportive artist community. This important opportunity will enable the artist to forge professional international contacts, explore London's art world and rich cultural resources, and produce a new body of work.

The recipient of this Prize will receive:
– Return travel to London. To be arranged for the artist by NAS.
– Studio accommodation and workspace at Acme Studios for 6 months.
– Living stipend of $AUD3,500 per month for 6 months. Total $AUD21,000.

Application deadline: Sunday 1 February 2026, 11.59pm
Residency: Monday 6 July – Friday 18 December 2026

The Prudence MacLeod Prize is open to eligible NAS alumni who have graduated within the past five years and meet the selection criteria.

Learn more 🔗 in bio. 

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Acme Fire Station, 30 Gillender Street, 1999 © Acme Archive
Thank you to everyone who joined us at the opening of The Grad Show!

Find works by this year's cohort exhibited throughout the NAS campus until 14 December. Open daily from 11am — 5pm and until 9pm on Fridays. 

View online via 🔗 in bio.

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Video: Tim Connolly
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