Official portrait of former Labor Premier Lara Giddings unveiled in State Parliament

TASMANIA’S trailblazing former premier has been honoured with the unveiling of her official portrait at Parliament House in Hobart.

Premier Will Hodgman, far left, and Opposition Leader Bryan Green, far right, look at the portrait with subject Lara Giddings and artist Deny Christian. Picture: RICHARD JUPE

TASMANIA’S trailblazing former premier has been honoured with the unveiling of her official portrait at Parliament House in Hobart.

Premier Will Hodgman and his Labor predecessor Lara Giddings unveiling the official portrait of the former premier today. Picture: RICHARD JUPE

Acclaimed artist Deny Christian came out of a break from portraiture to produce the work, which shows Lara Giddings standing next to her desk adorned with symbols representing her life and Tasmania.

During the official unveiling at State Parliament, Ms Giddings has been described as a “stoic and compassionate” leader who led Tasmania through some tough times.

Premier Will Hodgman said Ms Giddings was a pioneer for women in politics.

“There is general respect for you across the political divide, not something that comes to us all,” he said.

Ms Giddings, now Labor’s justice spokeswoman, said she was immensely proud to have been the state’s first female premier.

“It was tough, it was challenging but it was worth the ride and I don’t regret a minute,” she said