The Power of Portraiture

Portrait Society of America doubles down on its commitment to fostering growth, success and fellowship among an expanding community of practicing portraitists.

By Christine Egnoski, Executive Director, Portrait Society of America

In just two years, the Portrait Society of America will celebrate three decades of championing the enduring power of portraiture around the world. For nearly 30 years, the society has been dedicated to cultivating an appreciation for the practice, techniques and applications of traditional portraiture and figurative art. Our mission is to elevate the aesthetic and technical excellence of practicing artists and students while deepening public understanding and appreciation of portraiture among collectors, critics, arts professionals and the broader community.

Our mission is fulfilled through three guiding principles: advocacy, community and innovation.

Artist Michael Shane Neal offered attendees a behind-the-scenes look at the commissioned portrait process, demonstrating both his artistic approach and masterful painting techniques.

First, we serve as a passionate advocate of portraiture. Through education, mentorship and public engagement, we promote portraiture as a living, relevant art form. By supporting artists at every stage of their careers, we help ensure that this tradition continues to thrive while evolving alongside contemporary audiences and ideas.

Second, we cultivate community. Over the years, the Portrait Society has grown into a vibrant network of more than 20,000 artists, collectors, educators and art enthusiasts united by a shared passion for portraiture. Through educational programs, fellowship and artistic exchange, we create meaningful connections that encourage growth, collaboration and lifelong learning. Emerging and established artists alike find support, inspiration and a sense of belonging within our community.

Rose Frantzen, recipient of the Rorick Grand Prize, and Bo Bartlett, the 2026 Gold Medal honoree, share a moment of camaraderie following the gala awards banquet.

Finally, we embrace both legacy and innovation. While honoring the rich traditions of portraiture, we encourage creativity and new directions within the genre. We believe portraiture remains strongest when it balances respect for its past with a bold vision for its future.

One of the most visible expressions of this mission is our annual conference, The Art of the Portrait. This spring, more than 700 artists gathered to celebrate portraiture, exchange ideas and learn from one another. The conference has become one of the premier events in the representational art world, offering exceptional opportunities for artistic development and professional connection.

The Portrait Society also hosts an annual international competition featuring a $50,000 cash award. Recently renamed the Rorick Grand Prize, this prestigious honor recognizes excellence in portraiture and figurative art. Upon receiving the 2026 award, Rose Frantzen reflected on the society’s impact.

One-on-one portfolio critiques provide artists with invaluable professional feedback, guidance and encouragement from leading figures in the field.

“This giant family that we have here at the Portrait Society...what a fabulous experience. We all have grown so much through what the PSA has given us, and it is so rewarding to share our experiences and knowledge with every generation.”

Her words capture the spirit of the Portrait Society. More than an organization, it is a community that nurtures artists, fosters excellence and strengthens connections through art. As we look ahead, our commitment remains strong. We recently completed a comprehensive rebranding initiative, including a refreshed visual identity and renewed articulation of our purpose. We also established the Sargent Circle, a philanthropic leadership group whose members help sustain and strengthen the society’s mission and programs. We are also enhancing opportunities for members, including newly expanded artist-to-artist critique services, improvements to the Signature Status program, and the launch of an online community forum offering guidance on topics such as framing, contracts, marketing and commissions.

Jeremy Lipking was among 19 distinguished faculty artists who opened the conference in the popular Face-Off event, working from life alongside fellow painters in small groups before an enthusiastic audience.

Artists, patrons, educators and volunteers each play a vital role in advancing our mission. Their support enables us to create opportunities, build connections and ensure that portraiture continues to flourish.

As we prepare for our next 30 years, we remain inspired by what has been accomplished and energized by what lies ahead. We invite you to join us in shaping that future. Together, we can ensure that portraiture continues to inspire, connect, and enrich lives for generations to come.

For more information, visit www.portraitsociety.org. —