BUILDING BRIDGES

The Portrait Society continues to forge connections between emerging artists and master painters.

- BY CHRISTINE EGNOSKI

In the dynamic world of American art, the Portrait Society of America has built its reputation on the enduring values of tradition, excellence and mentorship. Since its founding, one of the main ways the society has upheld this mission is by serving as a vital bridge between emerging artists and established masters.

A defining legacy of the Portrait Society is its success in cultivating a vibrant artistic community—one that thrives on the exchange of ideas, methods and techniques. This environment not only preserves time-honored practices but also fosters meaningful growth for young and aspiring portrait artists. Each year, the proceeds raised from our annual 6x9 Mystery Art Sale fund our tuition scholarships. This year we awarded 35 scholarships to applicants to attend the annual conference, The Art of the Portrait, and I want to share with you the story of one of our applicants, Eliot Maxfield. "I don't know how long to say I've been working in the arts since I'm only 12," he writes. "I've been drawing since I could hold a pencil, but for the last year, I've been studying portraiture with John Darley, who recently received Signature Status."