Each spring, leading professional artists, aspiring artists, art suppliers, collectors and enthusiasts all flock to the Art of the Portrait Conference, hosted by the Portrait Society of America. This year’s conference, which takes place in the Washington, D.C. area, has a schedule packed with workshops, demonstrations and compelling panel discussions with esteemed Portrait Society faculty members like Michelle Dunaway, Robert Liberace, Oliver Sin, Paul Newton, Ruth Fitton, Adrienne Stein, Shane Wolf, Rose Frantzen and many others.
The Portrait Society recently celebrated its 27th anniversary in February. “Since its formation, I have served as the CEO, and I take immense pride in what we’ve accomplished and remain deeply committed to the enduring importance of portraiture,” says Christine Egnoski, executive director. “In a world dominated by digital photography, I believe the tradition of portrait painting remains a dynamic and irreplaceable art form and having a non-profit organization that supports this tradition is vitally important.”
Roberto Gammone, Baroque Recycling, oil on canvas, 35.4 x 21.6". 2025 International Portrait Competition finalist.
An atmosphere of encouragement and a genuine love of traditional portraiture permeates every aspect of the conference. And while it focuses primarily on the growth and advancement of the artist community, there is an abundance of opportunities for collectors to acquire original artworks as well.
The four-day event will exhibit the top 20 finalists of the Portrait Society’s International Portrait Competition,which is judged on site. This exhibition, located at the Hyatt Regency Reston, is open to the public for the entire duration of the conference. Finalists include Anna Rose Bain, Frances Bell, Scott Burdick, Roberto Gammone, Pavel Sokov, Timothy Rees, Laura Arenson and more. Cash and prizes for the winners of the International Portrait Competition make up over $162,000, including a $50,000 cash award for the Grand Prize, all of which are announced during the Awards Gala and Banquet on Saturday, May 10.
Palden Hamilton, Self Portrait at 45, oil, 48 x 38". 2025 International Portrait Competition finalist.
“One of the most exciting and fast-paced events is the 6-by-9 Mystery Art Sale, where attendees can purchase small, original works of art created by a variety of talented artists,” says Egnoski. “The unique twist? The artists’ names are kept secret until after the purchase, allowing buyers to make their purchase based purely on their love for the artwork rather than the name behind it. This creates an element of surprise and discovery, making each acquisition a thrilling experience.”
Frances Bell, Yellow Trainers, oil on canvas, 37½ x 35½". 2025 International Portrait Competition finalist.
Another highlight is the Silent Auction, featuring paintings created during the Thursday evening “Face Off,” in which 18 artists demonstrate in a variety of mediums including oil, watercolor, charcoal, egg tempera and clay. Artists participating in the 2025 Face Off include Michael Bergt, Ali Cavanaugh, Quang Ho, Jeffrey Larson, Huihan Liu, Kevin Macpherson, Dominique Medici, Timothy Rees, Mario Robinson and Daniel Sprick, to name a few.
Both the Silent Auction and 6-by-9 Mystery Art Sale are open to the public.
David Jamieson, Pathologist - Portrait of Dr. Maurice Jamieson, graphite, carbon black, pastel and ink wash on paper, 26 x 20". 2025 International Portrait Competition finalist.
“The available works showcase the mastery of 18 renowned portrait artists, making this an excellent opportunity to invest in exceptional artwork,” Egnoski adds. “Both events not only provide a chance to build a fine art collection, but since the funds collected support the Portrait Society’s scholarship program, buyers are also directly contributing to the advancement and encouragement of portrait artists, ensuring the continued growth of this important artistic tradition.”
The 2025 Art of the Portrait Conference takes place May 8 to 11. —
Art of the Portrait Conference
May 8-11, 2025
Hyatt Regency Reston
1800 Presidents Street, Reston, VA 20190
www.portraitsociety.org
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