You need only to walk through the doors at the Portrait Society of America’s Art of the Portrait conference each spring to immediately understand the importance of community. Every year this space comes alive with the thrill of artist members meeting new people, catching up with those they haven’t seen in a while, exchanging contact information and hugs, and eagerly sharing their artwork and lives with fellow artists. To me, the unity that is created within our organization is one of the most special aspects of the Portrait Society of America. I have recently considered this idea and how very important it is, especially to portrait and figure artists.
Dan Thompson provided instruction to conference attendee Trish Savides during a pre-conference workshop, demonstrating classical techniques and observational methods.
Adrienne Stein engages with attendees, sharing insights and answering questions following her painting demonstration.
A community of fellow artists provides much needed support and encouragement. Being surrounded by like-minded artists can inspire new ideas and approaches, pushing each artist’s work further. Artists can share both their challenges and their successes which can boost morale and motivation. As you may know, being an artist can sometimes be a lonely profession day-to-day. Many of us meet our struggles alone at our easels. Having a network of other artists we can reach out to for artistic and emotional support is paramount. I love how organically community happens within the Portrait Society of America. Our members not only share their artistic challenges with each other, but I also see them celebrating each other’s victories. Having another artist give constructive criticism helps us to improve our skills and refine our techniques. Having them also recognize our accomplishments keeps us going when we are back in the studio alone. I hope that each of you has at least one fellow artist you can call or write when you feel stuck on something you’re working on. If you don’t, I’d like to suggest that you make it a point to find that person!
Stephanie Paige Thomson offers portfolio critiques to a conference attendee, sharing insights and constructive feedback during a one-on-one review session.
The Portrait Society of America community also provides incredible opportunities for networking. Many of our members collaborate with other artists on projects or exhibitions. They also often co-teach workshops together. These collaborations can help an artist to broaden his or her experiences as well as give them exposure they may otherwise not have received. In today’s world of social media, online collaborations can also help artists to amplify each other’s work through shared posts and promotions. Networking with other artists often results in referrals for clients, commissions, or exhibitions. I have, on more than one occasion, recommended an artist I met through the Portrait Society for a commission or gallery.
Anna Rose Bain shares a joyful moment with guest Taléta Willer before the start of the gala banquet, radiating warmth and excitement.
Shane Wolf shares additional anatomy details with attendees, expanding on key concepts following his demonstration.
Another benefit of community that the Portrait Society of America works hard to cultivate is artistic skill development through the sharing of knowledge. The annual conference, Wednesday Webinars, mentorship programs, and other meetups and classes allow our community of artists to share and learn from each other. This is one of the reasons the society was founded. Our incredible faculty members donate their time and knowledge, helping other artists learn and refine their artistic abilities. In doing so, our community is preserving the traditions and values of realism and portraiture which might otherwise fade.
Certificate of Excellence winners congratulate each other and celebrate their achievements after the awards presentation.
Being part of a vibrant community of artists such as the Portrait Society of America not only provides practical benefits, but it also fosters a sense of belonging and shared purpose among our artist members. This support system is crucial for our artistic growth and for sustaining passion in our craft. I hope you will continue to strive to make connections with other artists as it will build your confidence and further your development as an artist.
Sincerely
Michael Shane Neal
Chairman