B. 1974

With numerous leading art prizes under his belt, Michael Zavros is one of Australia’s most distinguished contemporary artists.  Based in Brisbane, Zavros graduated from Queensland College of Art in 1996. Since then, he has become well renowned for his distinct gracefulness and hyper-realism, and his works on canvas and paper have mesmerised audiences across Australia and internationally.

Described by Elli Walsh as “using his paintbrush like a wand”, Zavros’ sincerity shines through in his lyrical attention to pockets of detail and movement - depicting intimate textures with a sophistication that transforms them into mythical commentary on materialism, consumerism and narcissism in contemporary society.

Zavros’ vast oeuvre is represented in numerous public and private collections across the country - including the National Gallery of Australia, National Gallery of Victoria, Art Gallery of New South Wales, Art Gallery of South Australia. In 2026, he was a finalist in the Archibald Prize for his work ‘Alex with his tefillin in the sea’. Zavros was also awarded the Mosman Art Prize in 2016, and in 2012 he was the recipient of the inaugural Bulgari Art Award through the Art Gallery of New South Wales.