Chaplain is Archibald subject

Bensville artist Ms Karen Bloomfield has painted St Huberts Island resident Father James Boland for this year's Archibald competition.

Fr Boland is the regional chaplain to the NSW Police Force, a position that he has held since 2008 preceded by 31 years as senior chaplain to the Force.

"This may not seem unusual until you understand that Jim was the NSW Police Force's first and only chaplain and that in the ensuing 35 years of service, Jim's vision has seen the chaplaincy grow to serve in the support of the entire NSW Police Force," said Ms Bloomfield.

"Chaplains across NSW supporting the police now exceed 105.

"Chaplain's do not preach religion," said Ms Bloomfield.

"They listen to and support people in stressful situations and the NSW Police Force continues to have regular need of this support for both its' officers and their families as well as retired police."

For his dedicated service, Fr Boland has been received numerous awards including the Medal of the Order of Australia and RSL Anzac of the Year NSW both in 1993 and more recently the Commissioner's Commendation for dedicated service and continued commitment.

When considering Fr Boland as her Archibald subject last year, Ms Bloomfield, who met him through a mutual friend, said she was "immediately drawn to Jim's kind face and ready smile even though the years of carrying others' sorrow had to be weighing upon him".

"I loved the fact that Jim's constant companion, Jemima, a large black German shepherd, clearly doted on him which I think is fairly indicative of everyone who has the pleasure of meeting him.

"I took this portrait very seriously and felt honoured to be portraying someone so dedicated to the support of others," said Ms Bloomfield.

Media Release, 6 Mar 2013

Karen Bloomfield, Bensville