Daniel Kim

In an age that glorifies the ‘new’, Daniel Kim steadfastly paints in the tradition of the Old Masters. On canvas, Daniel acts as a magician, transforming three-dimensional worlds into two-dimensional surfaces. After selecting his subject matter, Daniel works with a meditative focus. Barely breaking for lunch, he generally completes a painting in under one day. 

In early 2012, with the support of a Create NSW creative development grant, Daniel undertook a ten day mentorship with artist Greg Warburton (a multiple Archibald and Blake Prize finalist). A pivotal moment in his practice, Daniel continued to work alongside Greg for ten years, until his passing in 2022. 

In 2023, Daniel memorialised his late mentor in Self Portrait, holding memories, my mentor Greg Warburton (2023), a poignant painting that depicts Daniel looking over an album of photos of himself and Greg. The work was selected for the 2023 Archibald Prize, marking Daniel's Archibald debut. This sits alongside other accolades including the National Portrait Gallery’s Youth Portrait Prize (Finalist, 2010) and the Australian Design Centre’s Seed Stitch Contemporary Textile Award (Highly Commended, 2018). 

Daniel’s ability to capture something beyond appearances has seen him become a highly sought after portraitist. He has previously been commissioned to paint Professor The Honourable Dame Marie Bashir AD CVO (former Governor of New South Wales), John Ajaka (former President of the NSW Legislative Council), The Hon Ray Williams (formerly Federal Minister for Disability), Matt Kean MP and James Millar AM.

Whilst Daniel may struggle with mainstream forms of communication, on the canvas he is fluent. His mother Joy explains: `Daniel is happy when he paints because he can speak through painting.´

 - Portrait by Scott Heldorf