Michael Simms, Paul Capsis, 2022
Stages is a series of portraits of theatre and music luminaries by Sydney-based artist Michael Simms. It is a tribute to some of the extraordinary performers who have been adversely impacted by the pandemic, and a celebration of the ongoing contribution they have made to queer culture in Australia.
With this series, Michael has responded to the ephemeral nature of live performance through the permanence of oil paint. Each work captures aspects of the performer’s stage persona alongside their unique personality traits off stage. Sitters include Paul Capsis, Mitchell Butel, Zaachariaha Fielding and more.