The Art of the Portrait Conference ~ May 6-9, 2027 ~ Washington, D.C.
Join artists from all over the world for the 29th anniversary The Art of the Portrait conference! The conference is a gathering of artists from all over the world that share a passion for the portrait. The format of the event provides a variety of demonstrations in diverse mediums, discussions on how to advance your career, hands on workshops, meeting the selected finalists and viewing their artwork in The International, 6x9 Limited Size Unlimited Talent – Mystery Art Sale, networking, portfolio critiques and so much more!
Have Questions?
Call toll-free 1-877-772-4321 to have your questions answered by the Portrait Society of America staff.
What will you EXPERIENCE?
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World-Class Instruction: Again, we’re lining up the most celebrated portrait and figurative artists working today for pre-conference workshops, mainstage demos, and interactive breakout sessions.
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Hands-On Opportunities: We heard your feedback, and we’ll be providing additional hands-on opportunities exploring sculpting, drawing, and painting.
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Portfolio Reviews: We will host this popular event again where attendees can receive direct, constructive critiques from respected professionals to help grow your work and confidence.
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Inspiring Community: Since our group reserves the entire meeting space and hotel rooms, everyone you meet will be an artist giving you the opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations and build lasting connections with fellow artists from around the world.
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The International Portrait Competition: You’ll be part of a one-of-a-kind exhibition featuring the highest level of contemporary portraiture.
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Top-Tier Art Materials: We’re booking out returning art materials and service companies now, so save your funds to restock your art supplies.
Earlybird Tuition
Tuition Rates:
Register before September and receive a 10% discount on your full tuition.
Deposit Only: $100.00
Member rate with discount: $585.00
Non-Member rate with discount: $675.00
Call our office at 1-877-772-4321 if you have questions about registration or logging into our new system.
If your plans change, please notify the Portrait Society in writing before February 16, 2027 to receive a full refund. After February 16, 2027, you will receive an educational credit for your tuition less a $100 cancellation fee. Your educational credit may be applied to future conference or membership dues within three years. Banquet tickets, Bus tickets, and Pre-Conference Workshops are non-refundable.
Hyatt Regency Reston
All conference activities will take place at the Hyatt Regency Reston, our host hotel.
Our hotel registration links will made available to anyone that registers for the conference.
Hotel reservation link will be available May 5, 2026.
HOST HOTEL:
Hyatt Regency Reston - Washington, D.C.
1800 Presidents St
Reston, Virginia 20190
Tel: (703) 709-1234
Portrait Society conference rate: $149/night
In-Person Program Schedule
What can you EXPECT?
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An Opening program featuring 15 artists demonstrating in oil, watercolor, pastel, graphite and clay
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Pre-conference workshops to provide you with a full day of hands-on instruction
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Main Stage demonstrations
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Panel discussions
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Breakout classes to select from with a variety of topics
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The Gala Awards and banquet on Saturday evening – the Oscars of portraiture!
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Exhibit Hall featuring the latest in art materials and services
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Portfolio critiques from professional artists...and so much more!
Virtual Conference
Tuition Rate: $550.00
Registration Coming Soon!
For the SIXTH YEAR IN A ROW, we will be live streaming the annual The Art of the Portrait conference if you are unable to attend in-person.
You will have a front row seat to the main stage live, right alongside the in-person attendees. You'll be able to see up close the brush strokes of the demonstrators, hear unique perspectives, and so much more.
Conference Scholarships
Application opens: October 15, 2026
As part of our ongoing mission to educate the public about the traditions of fine art portraiture and figurative works, the Portrait Society offers several scholarships.
In addition to over 30 tuition-only scholarships awarded annually for artists to attend the conference, the Portrait Society awards one full scholarship that provides tuition, three-nights hotel stay, and travel allowance: The Gordon Wetmore Legacy. Apply on or before November 30, 2026. Notifications will be sent at the end of December.
Veteran Scholarship
Application opens: October 15, 2026
The Portrait Society is partnering with the Patriot Art Foundation to offer one full scholarship that provides tuition, three-night hotel stay, and travel allowance to a veteran in support of the Foundations mission to provide free education and materials to veterans who desire to use art as a conduit for self-expression, connection, and purpose. Apply on or before November 30, 2026. Notifications will be sent at the end of December.