The artistry of drag queens proved Elton Giraudo’s biggest source of inspiration when the John Curtin College of the Arts Year 12 visual arts graduate created his artwork Bastet’s Crown.
“I knew I wanted to create a piece that explored the queer identity somehow, and drawing from my own personal experiences as well as the experiences of the community and those around me, I made Bastet’s Crown as a celebration of queerness,” 18-year-old Giraudo, of Fremantle, said.
“I drew on their flamboyant, extravagant looks and over-all showstopping presence to create my own vivid work.”
Bastet’s Crown features a vibrant rainbow mane as it symbolises the complexities of identity, while also uniting diverse queer identities, with Giraudo using a lion mask to act as a pillar of resilience and pride in the face of oppression and shame.
“Designed to be worn by anyone, the mask offers protection and security, while also transforming the wearer into a figure of confidence and self-belief,” Giraudo wrote in his artist statement.
“By wearing it they might gain a sense of bold visibility, embodying unwavering pride in who they are.”
Taking five months to create, including two weeks of non-stop sewing to construct the mane, saw the artwork in two parts — mixed media and digital print — selected as one of 63 finalists for The West Australian Pulse 2026 exhibition.
The Art Gallery of WA annual showcase is in its 34th year of providing insight into the minds of WA’s most talented young artists.
“Having my work featured in such a major exhibition was a surprise, but it really affirmed and acknowledged my efforts, as well as my artmaking process and vision,” said Giraudo, who is studying a bachelor of pharmacy at Curtin University.
“Being selected gives me the confidence and the assurance that I can make great artwork, even though I still consider myself quite inexperienced.
“It’s really amazing to see my own work accompanied by the other absolutely beautiful works. Having it mounted on the wall really fulfills my original vision for the work as well.”
Having visited The West Australian Pulse in previous years, Giraudo said he hoped those seeing the exhibition in 2026 recognised the prominent issues currently facing the younger generations.
“A lot of the works explore political and emotional difficulties, offering a commentary and critique, highlighting some topics that might go unnoticed,” he added.
“Although my work can be about pride in any identity, I really intended for the work to be a symbol of strength for the queer community.
“During this time where the rights and the safety of queer people are being challenged, I want to remind every queer person there is nothing wrong with being who you are.”
The West Australian Pulse 2026 is at The Art Gallery of WA until September 13. Visitors are encouraged to vote for their favourite work in The West Australian Pulse 2026 People’s Choice Award, voting closes August 23.
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