Of Heart and Hands

Tony Gould AM is one of Australia’s most respected pianists with an ability to play in a vast array of styles. He began his piano career improvising and playing jazz, and it wasn’t until his adult years that he learnt to read music. One of the things I admire most about Tony Gould, which inspired me to paint him, is his firm belief that music is for everyone. And he lives that philosophy, giving his time to contribute to causes such as the Hush Foundation which raises money for children undergoing cancer treatments. I wanted to capture the integral connection between Tony as a person, and Tony as a performer - to show his strength, but also his vulnerability.