Jane Allan Accused of Plagiarism Over Two Award-Winning Paintings
New South Wales artist Jane Allan is facing accusations that two of her award-winning paintings closely resemble works by other artists. One allegation concerns her 2022 entry for the Darling Portrait Prize, and the other concerns her 2025 winning entry for the Doyles Art Award.
The 2022 Darling Portrait Prize Entry
Jane Allan's painting "Weight of the Mind's Periapt" was a finalist in the National Portrait Gallery's 2022 Darling Portrait Prize. The work won the Art Handler's award, valued at $2,000.
The National Portrait Gallery stated that its art handlers observed at the time of the prize that the painting was "clearly influenced" by Jean-Michel Basquiat's 1982 work "Untitled (Two Heads on Gold)." The gallery's terms and conditions require artists to declare their work as original.
Allan described the subject of the portrait as her "inspirational primary carer" following a spinal cord injury. Jean-Michel Basquiat was an American artist who died in 1988.
"Clearly influenced" by Jean-Michel Basquiat's 1982 work "Untitled (Two Heads on Gold)."
The 2025 Doyles Art Award Winning Work
Separately, Allan's painting "Seaside Explorers" won the 2025 Doyles Art Award, earning a $20,000 prize. The work was later sold at auction.
The Doyles Art Prize committee stated that the painting appears to be an imitation of Australian painter Nicholas Harding's 2011 work "Two Estuary Figures." Harding died in 2022.
Art figures, including dealer Philip Bacon, have stated the painting closely resembles Harding's work in figure positioning and costumes. Harding's estate expressed disappointment and gratitude to the Doyles committee for addressing the matter.
"Influence and imitation are very different things." – Samuel Harding, son of Nicholas Harding
Subsequent Actions and Statements
- Investigation Underway: The Doyles Art Award committee stated it is investigating the allegations and considering recovery of the prize money. Gold Coast City councillor Glenn Tozer, an award sponsor, said lawyers are discussing recovery of the $20,000 prize.
- Process Review: The Doyles committee also stated it is reviewing its processes and considering changes.
- Expert Opinion: Art historian Sasha Grishin described both works as "plagiarism."
- Family Response: Samuel Harding, son of Nicholas Harding, stated: "Influence and imitation are very different things."
Art historian Sasha Grishin described both works as "plagiarism."
Allan has not been reached for comment. She has previously described "Seaside Explorers" as being based on childhood beach memories.