David Griggs The melanoma and the stitches

This blood-hued self-portrait marks a challenging period for David Griggs.

‘I went through great turmoil in 2022, both physically and mentally. But by the end of the year, I was living my best life,’ says the nine-time Archibald finalist.

‘Then close to Christmas, a malignant melanoma was discovered on my lower lip. Two friends who work in the health industry, Dr Terry Wu and Dr Dick Quan, booked me into surgery in Sydney with Dr Kerwin Shannon. I mention their names to say a huge thank you.

‘This self-portrait was made when I had 27 stitches down my face. I needed to explore my situation creatively, so I decided to do one painting that would capture how I felt and looked post-op.

‘Using a colour palette that honoured the fleshy, messy reality of it all, I just went for it. I didn’t need a visual reference to paint from; I felt it. In saying that, this self-portrait is one of hope and endurance, and a reminder that art can uplift us, no matter what is going on in our life.’