Ms Aliendi was named along with two other Bega Valley artists in the final field of 38 for the prestigious $50,000 prize.

Also among the finalists are Bethany Thurtell of Bermagui and Joseph O'Gara of Eden.

"It's really amazing, I'm gobsmacked," Ms Aliendi said this week after being notified her self portrait 'Galah' had been short-listed by the judges.

"Iain rang me on Monday - I still can't believe it, I'm stoked."

Bega Valley Regional Gallery director Iain Dawson said making those calls was always "one of the best days I have".

"The calibre of this year's entries is outstanding," he said.

"We have artists from every state and territory vying for this prestigious portraiture event; indicative of the great pulling power of the award's reputation.

"I sincerely thank the incredible ongoing generosity of Peter Hannan, son of our eponymous patron, for his support of the BVRG and acknowledge his commitment to his late mother's passion for realistic portraiture."

Now in its 18th year, the Shirley Hannan National Portrait Award offers $50,000 in prize money. The 38 finalists were chosen by a panel comprising Mr Dawson, Mr Hannan and South East Arts CEO Andrew Gray.

Ms Aliendi said her self-portrait is in her preferred style of "alla prima" - in the moment. "It's done in one sitting."

"I entered two years ago and didn't get hung," she said."But because it's such a big thing for the Bega Valley and there's such kudos with it I thought I'd enter again just for the process.

"I worked so quickly, but this time it all came together, it was just one of those days.

"I like to work in the moment and love the energy of a painting that hasn't been overworked.

"Getting a likeness [using this style] is pretty tough. But when they work they have that real energy."

However, after sleeping on her effort, she thought there was something missing.

"It was the isolation factor maybe, but I felt there was a lot of empty space around me.

"It was a bit tongue in cheek but I came down the next morning and I added the galah - as it matched my glasses!

"To see your work hanging is a real honour."

The winner of the 202 Shirley Hannan National Portrait Award will be announced at a streamed launch event on July 24.

All 38 finalist portraits can be viewed on the BVRG website.