Archibald prize 2026: portrait of Jewish leader after Bondi terror attack wins people’s choice award
Michael Zavros's portrait, 'Alex with his tefillin in the sea,' depicting Jewish leader Alex Ryvchin, has won the Archibald People's Choice Award for 2026. The painting was created weeks after the Bondi terror attack, inspired by Ryvchin's leadership and the symbolism of faith.
Why it matters
This award highlights the power of art to reflect and respond to significant social events, recognizing a leader who provided clarity and conviction to his community during a time of grief and fear, fostering cultural understanding and resilience.
Michael Zavros’s painting Alex with his tefillin in the sea, depicting Jewish leader Alex Ryvchin. The painting has won the 2026 people’s choice award at the Archibalds. Photograph: Jenni Carter Michael Zavros’s painting Alex with his tefillin in the sea, depicting Jewish leader Alex Ryvchin. The painting has won the 2026 people’s choice award at the Archibalds. Photograph: Jenni Carter Archibald prize Archibald prize 2026: portrait of Jewish leader after Bondi terror attack wins people’s choice award Artist Michael Zavros says he was inspired by a deep respect for Alex Ryvchin’s leadership, as well as an uncanny likeness between the two men
Prefer the Guardian on Google An artist’s portrayal of a Jewish leader produced just weeks after the Bondi massacre has won the Archibald people’s choice category.
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