Usually, it’s Tina Arena’s audience that’s left awestruck, but seeing her portraits that will hang in the National Gallery for the first time, the singer-songwriter was left speechless. 

After 50 years on stage, Arena will now take her place among the country’s greatest artists, with portraits of her set to be on display alongside the likes of Olivia Newton-John, Kylie Minogue and Jimmy Barnes.

Arena sat down with 10 News+ to reflect on her career.

“For me to have seen myself captured that honestly, I was taken aback,” she said.

The Aussie icon spoke about her high school days, her battle with low self-esteem, and the healing power of music.

Watch more from 10 News+ at 10.com.au