As Below, So above (Ut Infra, Sic Supra)
Professor Michelle Simmons’ ground-breaking efforts in quantum computing compelled me to honour her extraordinary rise as a global leader in her field.
Michelle looks at us. We see her face, but quickly focus on her intriguing fingers which represent the ‘superposition’ of a qubit (quantum bit) that is neither “0” nor “1” but both.
Portrait of Professor Michelle Simmons 2023 Archibald Finalist
Advanced binary computers have normalised cultural advances that were incomprehensible a mere decade ago. Quantum computing will accelerate these changes exponentially. Michelle’s work will change the world as her research has seismic implications for us all.
A celebrated role model for young Australian women committed to research in STEM, Michelle also represents the best of all Australians, regardless of our stripe.
My use of tonal colour vignettes in the background represents the empirical “known,” while juxtaposing electric blue (intellect) and carmine red (heart) to generate a colour discord that represents the binary incongruence of our belief systems and lived experiences in the digital age.
Michelle’s torso is the deepest black I could conjure as my paean to the eternal feminine. She embodies the sacred “unknown” from which all quanta are revealed.
Her painterly features express creative human endeavour at the intersection of mind and spirit, resulting in the mesmerising violet of my sitter’s effortless regal composure and personal warmth.