As an artist, some projects hold a deeper meaning—not just because of the subject but because of the personal connection behind them. That’s exactly how I felt when I had the opportunity to paint a portrait for Dylan O’Keeffe, a talented driver competing in the Porsche Carrera Cup, as he raced at the 2025 Australian Grand Prix.
Having known Dylan for some time, I was honoured to create a piece that celebrated his journey in motorsport. The fact that it was unveiled at the Australian GP made it even more special, marking a milestone moment for both of us.
The Inspiration Behind the Portrait
Motorsport has always been a world of precision, speed, and passion—qualities that define Dylan O’Keeffe both on and off the track. His skill and dedication to racing have taken him to some of the biggest events, and competing at the Australian Grand Prix in the Porsche Carrera Cup was another significant step in his career.
I wanted this portrait to capture more than just an image of Dylan—I wanted it to reflect the energy, speed, and intensity that come with being behind the wheel of a Porsche race car.
The Artistic Process
Creating this portrait was an exciting challenge. Motorsport portraits have a unique dynamic—you don’t just focus on the person, but also on the motion, adrenaline, and environment surrounding them. I carefully selected a reference that reflected Dylan’s persona on track, ensuring the painting would have a sense of movement and power.
This piece was one of the most enjoyable I’ve worked on, as it allowed me to blend my artistic style with the raw energy of motorsport.
The Big Reveal at the Australian GP
The highlight of this project was undoubtedly the presentation at the 2025 Australian Grand Prix. Seeing Dylan receive the portrait in such an iconic setting—surrounded by the noise, excitement, and atmosphere of the race—was a moment I won’t forget.
Being part of this occasion, and knowing that my artwork now holds a special place in Dylan’s collection, is something I’m truly grateful for.