Susan Lyon and Jeff Hein, two of 30 faculty artists, demonstrated a variety of styles throughout the weekend.

The weekend activities open in grand style with the Face-Off, an energy-filled introduction to a weekend of inspiration and learning, featuring 15 artists demonstrating from live models in a variety of mediums including oil, clay, pastel and charcoal. Even though we are in our 26th year of hosting this national artists’ conference, each year we strive to bring a variety of programs to the schedule, invite new faculty and create new opportunities for artists to learn, grow and return renewed to their studios.  

Mattie Ree Neal, one of the Next Generation faculty artists, offered guidance in the drawing workshop.

Pastor’s note articulated beautifully three central themes that reinforced her positive experience, which she identified as community, mentorship and confidence. “I found lasting friendships with a group of fantastic artists, many of whom are also mothers figuring out a career path while raising children. We are all staying in touch and making plans to attend next year’s conference together,” she shared about the community aspect. “I walked away from the conference no longer feeling artistically isolated. I feel like I am finally part of a larger artistic community even though we are spread out around the world. I have noticed a steadiness and confidence in my painting/business since returning. I know I’m part of something bigger than myself, and there will always be someone to reach out to or talk to if I’m ever feeling artistically stuck or alone.” On mentorship, she wrote, “I met so many outstanding artists whom I have admired from afar. I had the chance to talk with these artists face-to-face and receive incredible encouragement and advice. Everyone I spoke to was kind and generous with their time and talent. It is clear that the Portrait Society has fostered an organization that values mentorship and giving back to the wider artistic community, and I’m so grateful to have benefited from that atmosphere.”

John Coleman received a standing ovation at the end of his demo during which he sculpted a Hopi child, who evolved into a young Navajo maiden and finished as a mature Native American Chieftain.

In regards to confidence, she noted, “Through the conversations, lectures, and break-out sessions, I began to see more clearly how to connect the dots between my art practice and my art career. It gave me the added confidence I needed to take my work seriously and not be afraid to aim high. In the month since returning, I have secured my first four-figure commission, and I am currently in negotiations for my first five-figure painting. This represents a huge step in my emerging career and gives me so much hope and excitement for the artistic path that lies in front of me.”

Over 700 artists worldwide gathered together to learn and be inspired at the 2024 Art of the Portrait conference.

Attending the annual conference is a wonderful opportunity to meet and connect with like-minded artists who are interested in a shared passion for the portrait. Give us the opportunity to inspire you by attending our next annual conference from May 8 through 11, 2025, or by becoming a member of the Portrait Society, which will give you access to a multitude of benefits and resources. For more information visit www.portraitsociety.org. —