Bowsprint for Canoe

Lesley Wengembo, a distinguished artist from Papua New Guinea, is renowned for his large-scale photorealistic portraits that delve deeply into the essence of his subjects. His work is not merely about depicting appearances but about capturing the soul and spirit of his subjects, particularly the elderly, to honor their essence while they are still alive. His recent work includes a striking portrait of Fijian NRL legend Petero Civoniceva and a career-defining piece featuring the late Grand Chief, Sir Michael Somare. Wengembo’s art is a testament to his belief that true artistry goes beyond creating beautiful images; it is about capturing something powerful and meaningful. His dedication to portraying the depth of his subjects reflects his conviction that he is destined to be an artist, using his craft to make a profound impact.