Loribelle Spirovski

Archibald Prize 2025 finalist
Loribelle Spirovski 
Finger painting of William Barton
oil on canvas
© the artist

William Barton is a virtuoso of the yidaki, also known as the didgeridoo. A proud Kalkadunga man, he is a composer and producer who has expanded the horizons for his instrument through an engagement with classical music.

Loribelle Spirovski met him last year after one of his concerts. ‘I had heard him speak at a panel the day before, and was captivated by his humble wisdom. On stage, his presence was both serene and electric. He agreed to a portrait sitting, inviting me to his home,’ she says.

‘He told me about writing music during long walks. That’s what his music is like – a long walk, with the senses free to roam. When it came time to work on his portrait, I played his composition “Birdsong at dusk”.

‘For years, I’ve been recovering from an injury that has made painting difficult and painful. Many times, I’ve questioned my role as an artist,’ says Spirovski.

‘As the music began, my hand set the brush aside and I dipped my finger into the soft, pliant paint. I turned the volume up, the music guiding me. Without a brush, painting was almost painless. As the portrait painted itself, I felt alive in a way I hadn’t for a very long time.’