Australia is abuzz with controversy after two prize-winning artworks by Jane Allan were revealed to bear uncanny similarities to those of established painters. The Aussie artist's 2022 Darling Portrait Prize finalist piece, 'Weight of the Mind's Periapt', took home the £1,050 (A$2,000) Art Handler's award, but was later acknowledged as 'clearly influenced' by the late neo-expressionist master Jean-Michel Basquiat.
The comparisons that have left many in the art world scratching their heads highlight striking similarities between Allan's work and Basquiat's 1982 masterpiece, 'Untitled (Two Heads on Gold)'. The spindly arms, distinctive facial features, and bold white outlining in Allan's piece are eerily reminiscent of Basquiat's original – a 'vibrant, layered piece' that channels 'raw energy into two faces that seem to echo and challenge each other, reflecting a sense of duality', as described by the Basquiat estate.
But it gets worse. Allan's win at the Doyles Art Award last year has been called into question after accusations emerged that her painting 'Seaside Explorers' – which took home the £10,500 (A$20,000) prize in the landscape category – is little more than an imitation of Nicholas Harding's 'Two Estuary Figures'. Both paintings feature two figures on a beach in similar poses, rendered in an impasto style with comparable brushstroke patterns.
The Doyles committee is taking the allegations seriously and has vowed to strengthen their judging process. The National Portrait Gallery confirmed that while they require artists to declare original artwork, the Basquiat influence was noted at the time of the award – but declined to comment further on the striking similarities.
Jean-Michel Basquiat's iconic works continue to inspire and intrigue audiences around the world. UK fans can catch documentaries and features on his life and art streaming on platforms like BBC iPlayer, Sky Arts, or subscription services – with major exhibitions of his work having previously toured prominent galleries in London.