Australian Photographer Raymond Mather Named Finalist in 2026 Percival Photographic Portrait Prize with Powerful Work “Taken”

A returning finalist, Mather’s latest portrait engages with Australia’s Forced Adoption history through a deeply personal and nationally resonant work.

Australian photographer and multidisciplinary artist Raymond Mather has been selected as a finalist in the prestigious Percival Photographic Portrait Prize 2026 for his work Taken, a powerful and quietly affecting portrait grounded in lived experience.

This marks Mather’s second selection as a Percival finalist, following his inclusion in 2018 with a portrait of Australian composer Elena Kats-Chernin, reinforcing the depth and continuity of his photographic practice over time.

Taken responds to Australia’s history of Forced Adoption, formally recognised through national inquiries and government apologies in 2012 and 2013. Between the 1950s and late 1970s, more than 200,000 pregnant, unwed, vulnerable women and young girls were pressured into relinquishing their babies for adoption.

The portrait centres on Karen, whose story emerges from this landscape of shame, disconnection, and long-term trauma. Photographed on location in Murwillumbah, NSW, she is depicted holding a pair of knitted baby booties, surrounded by many more, forming a quiet field of memory.

Through this repetition, the work expands beyond an individual narrative, acknowledging the broader scale of loss while maintaining a tone of restraint and dignity. It offers a contemplative reflection on what was taken, and gestures toward the strength that remains.

With over four decades of experience across dance, theatre, photography, and exhibition practice, Mather’s work is grounded in authenticity, emotional resonance, and visual storytelling. He is the founder of ART1 Fine Art Photography, a self-curated platform presenting limited-edition works outside traditional gallery systems.

“I am deeply moved and honoured to have been present in the creation of this artwork, and to support the story being realised.
I thank the true bravery and generosity of the sitter in allowing this work to exist.”
- Raymond

Selected works and artist information:
https://art1.com.au

Raymond Mather
ART1 Fine Art Photography
raymond@art1.com.au