Randall Sinnamon Portrait of Joseph Tawadros

Currently living in London, Egyptian–Australian Joseph Tawadros is a musician and composer, with seven ARIA Awards to his name. He was awarded a Member of Australia in 2016.

Tawadros is known for his remarkable technique on the oud (a stringed instrument, like a lute) as well as his exuberant performance style and flamboyant outfits. Keen to push boundaries, he has collaborated with a diverse range of musicians, orchestras and ensembles, and often performs with his percussionist brother James.

‘I first saw Joseph perform with Band of Brothers in 2009. After drawing the Tawadros brothers at two of their performances, I met them at the 2022 WOMADelaide festival, where Joseph agreed to a portrait,’ says artist Randall Sinnamon, a first-time Archibald finalist.

‘When painting Joseph, I wanted to capture his individual fashion style, cultural background and the emotional intensity of his music, having listened to all of his albums, over and over, for months.

‘The decision to paint him with his eyes closed occurred after seeing him shredding his oud during his recent tour with the Australian Chamber Orchestra.’