A portrait of convicted paedophile Dennis Ferguson entered in this year's Archibald Prize is 'a step too far', New South Wales Premier Kristina Keneally says.
"We all know sometimes art pushes the boundaries but I think this time it has gone too far," she said.
"I think most of the community, and I join them, thinks this is a painting we simply didn't need to see."
News that makes sense
Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.
The portrait shows Ferguson in the painting's background, with Brett Collins from Justice action group in the foreground.
Asked if the NSW Art Gallery should be stopped from hanging the painting, Ms Keneally answered in the negative but said she wouldn't look at it.
"I don't think this was a painting we needed to see," she said.
"It's been entered and I think the community will make their own judgment.
"I certainly won't be going to view it."
Ms Keneally said she would be happy to view the rest of the paintings in the competition.
