Celebrating centenarians with portraits by Peter Wegner
Published on 18 December 2024
The City of Whittlesea is excited to unveil two new portraits of local residents aged over 100 years, created by Archibald Prize-winning artist Peter Wegner. These portraits are part of Wegner’s Centenarian Project, which honours the stories and lives of Australians who have reached 100 years and over.
One of the new portraits features Leila Joyce Worrall, known as Joyce, who turned 103 this December. Joyce has lived in Lalor for the past four years with her son and welcomed Peter Wegner into her home, where they shared tea and stories. Joyce’s warmth and humour inspired Wegner as he sketched her portrait, capturing her spirit and the connection she has with her family and community.
Joyce shared her reaction to seeing her portrait. “When I saw the artwork, I couldn’t believe it was me. I’ve never experienced anything like it. I think it is wonderful,” Joyce said.
The second portrait tributes Peter Petrov from Bundoora, who will be celebrating his 100th birthday on Christmas Day. Peter’s portrait joins Wegner’s collection, which now includes more than 100 centenarians from across Victoria and New South Wales, paying tribute to their long and rich lives.
Residents also celebrated this collection through free workshops with Peter Wegner, offering a rare opportunity to learn from a renowned artist and engage with the stories behind his work.
The two portraits have been added to the City of Whittlesea’s Cultural Collection which preserves and shares the visual art and history that reflect the City’s diverse past and present.
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Quotes attributable to City of Whittlesea Mayor, Councillor Aidan McLindon:
"Turning 100 is a huge milestone that should be celebrated. These portraits show the wisdom, strength, and spirit of our centenarians.”
“The portraits are a great addition to the City of Whittlesea’s Cultural Collection. They show and share the art and history of the City’s diverse past and present.”