24/04/2026
"MARK DONALDSON VC"
Oil on canvas
* Private art collection of the Australian SASR.
This portrait of Mark Donaldson VC I did, was never about rank, medals, or citation—it was about the man behind them.
I’m drawn to stories that live beneath the surface, and in Mark’s case, it’s not just the moment of bravery that defines him, but the quiet weight that comes with it. His actions in Afghanistan—placing himself in harm’s way to protect others and bring someone home—speak to something deeply human: instinct, loyalty, and an unwavering sense of responsibility.
As someone who has long been connected to the Australian Army, I find myself continually returning to these stories—not to glorify war, but to honour the individuals within it. There’s a humility in Mark’s presence that I wanted to capture. Not a hero in the cinematic sense, but a man who simply did what needed to be done.
The inclusion of the military working dog alongside him, is deliberate. It reflects partnership, trust, and the unspoken bond that exists in these environments—something that often goes unseen but is just as vital.
This painting is about courage, yes—but more than that, it’s about character. It’s about the kind of strength that doesn’t ask to be recognised, yet leaves a lasting imprint.
Australian Army