Here's why it caused such a stir:
* Tradition: The Archibald Prize is traditionally awarded to a portrait of a "distinguished man or woman of Australia". While Wendy Whiteley was a well-known and influential figure in her own right (she was an artist, designer, and socialite), she wasn't considered "distinguished" in the traditional sense. Many felt that the prize should have been given to a more established public figure.
* Personal Connection: The judges' decision was seen by some as favouring Whiteley due to his personal connection to the subject. Some critics felt that this created a conflict of interest.
* Artistic Merit: Some argued that the portrait itself was not technically brilliant or particularly insightful. They felt it lacked the depth and complexity expected of an Archibald Prize winner.
Ultimately, the controversy highlighted the tension between the traditional expectations of the Archibald Prize and the changing landscape of Australian art. Whiteley's win, though controversial, marked a shift towards a more contemporary and inclusive approach to portraiture.
It's worth noting that Wendy Whiteley was a remarkable woman in her own right and the controversy also sparked important discussions about gender roles and representation in art.