Edward Jack Humphrey, 22, is a graduate of the National Art School and now works as a professional artist. He said he had learned via social media that Tasmania was powered by 100 per cent renewable energy, which led him to Mr Barnett.

"I read ... [about] Minister Guy Barnett's optimism and achievements," Mr Humphrey said.

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"I reached out to Guy Barnett and asked him if I could paint him as my subject for the 100th Archibald Prize.

"What inspired me to paint Guy Barnett was his optimism, vision to achieve more potential with clean renewable energy, green hydrogen, cleaner jobs and more opportunities, and his commitment to sustain friendships and trust with all people from communities in Tasmania."

Mr Humphrey used oil paint, oil sticks, acrylic paint and gouache on linen to create his work, which can be purchased for $9950.

The Archibald Prize is widely considered to be the most prestigious portrait prize in the nation.

Mr Barnett said it was a "great honour" to have a portrait of himself entered in the prize, particularly because the painting was "located in the Central Highlands and focused on Tasmania's nation-leading renewable energy projects".

The 2021 Archibald Prize exhibition will be held at the Art Gallery of NSW from June 5 - September 26.

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