Mostafa Azimitabar

Archibald Prize 2025 finalist
Mostafa Azimitabar
The definition of hope
oil on linen
© the artist

‘Survivors understand each other. Survivors have stories to tell,’ says Mostafa ‘Moz’ Azimitabar, a three-time Archibald finalist. He and his subject, Grace Tame, have forged a close friendship since their lawyer introduced them two years ago.

Tame advocates for survivors of sexual abuse and was the 2021 Australian of the Year. A long-distance runner, she broke her own record at the Bruny Island Ultra Marathon in 2024, running the 64-kilometre event in under five hours.

Azimitabar, a Kurdish refugee, sought asylum in Australia in 2013. Held on Manus Island and onshore, he was freed in 2021. When he unsuccessfully sued the Australian Government for damages, Tame was in court to support him. While on Manus Island, Azimitabar learnt to make paintings using a toothbrush, which he continues to do today.

‘Grace and I are connected through an understanding of torture,’ says Azimitabar. ‘I never thought I could be a runner, but Grace believes in the healing power of running and encouraged me. I recently ran a half marathon. I have become stronger, healthier and more positive.

‘In this portrait, the road represents the journey through life. Grace’s right hand looks as if she’s lifting the road, lifting the world. By bravely sharing her story, she inspires people not to give up. She is a hero; the definition of hope.’