The Archibald criteria calls for the portrait to be "preferentially of some man or woman distinguished in art, letters, science or politics".

Nonetheless Mrs Wilkie has been sitting for artist and friend Malcolm Smith and the painting is just about complete.

Mr Smith, who became a professional artist in his 60s after retiring from his career in the architecture industry, reckons the word "preferentially" can be stretched to include a woman whose face captures the ex-patriot experience common to many Australians. Some call it the migrant experience.

Mrs Wilkie, 75, was born in New Zealand and is a descendant of TeRauparaha, the legendary Maori warrior chief often referred to as the "Napoleon of the South".

As a teacher she visited Australia on working holidays and eventually met husband David, an industrial chemist.

Although the family lived in various overseas postings, Australia became home in the practical sense while New Zealand remained the home of her heart.

"I've always been terribly proud of my heritage there is something spiritual that ties me to New Zealand," Mrs Wilkie said.

She met Mr Smith, 71, at his art classes, only to find out that he lives around the corner from her Cronulla home.

In the portrait Mr Smith has captured Mrs Wilkie's Maori heritage and spirituality.

With New Zealand's Bay of Plenty in the background, she looks like she is in reflection.

When not making art, Mr Smith teaches at Hazelhurst Regional Gallery at Gymea and at the Multiple Sclerosis Centre at Lidcombe. The second is a voluntary job that needs more volunteers and financial help.

Mr Smith began teaching art at Lidcombe after watching a TV program about the plight of MS sufferers, most of whom end up in nursing homes for the elderly due to a lack of suitable resources.

His Monday classes are increasingly popular, but he needs artists to help on a rostered basis and financial support to buy art materials.

Details: Malcolm, 95235585.