We acknowledge the Gadigal of the Eora Nation, the traditional custodians of the Country on which the Art Gallery of New South Wales stands.

Oliver Shepherd Maestro (portrait of Jessica Cottis)

A seated person holding a baton in one hand, with an open book on their lap, and a blue butterfly beside them

As you move around the room, do the eyes in this portrait follow you?

Conductor Jessica Cottis is sitting on a bench with her baton and musical score. The lines of the bench slats echo a five-line stave (a framework on which musical notes are written). Can you spot similar lines in the music Jessica is holding? Why do you think Oliver Shepherd has painted a butterfly next to her?

Imagine conducting an orchestra to play your favourite song. Move your hands to guide the musicians as they play.