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Sam Smith Portrait Unveiled at London Gallery: Singer Calls it a Dream
On April 24, 2024, the National Portrait Gallery in central London unveiled a stunning portrait of singer-songwriter Sam Smith, created by the renowned French art duo Pierre et Gilles. The artwork, titled “Gloria,” is inspired by Smith’s 2023 album of the same name and features the artist in a celestial setting, adorned with angel wings designed by JW Anderson while playing a harp. This unveiling marks a significant moment in both Smith’s career and the gallery’s ongoing commitment to showcasing contemporary art.
| Artist | Title | Year Created | Medium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pierre et Gilles | Gloria | 2023 | Mixed Media (Photography and Painting) |
About the Artwork
The portrait “Gloria” is a unique blend of photography and painting, a hallmark of Pierre et Gilles’ artistic style. The duo, known for their vibrant and imaginative depictions of celebrities, first captured a photograph of Sam Smith before transforming it into a hand-painted masterpiece. The artwork aims to encapsulate a mix of reality, daily life, dreams, and fantasies, reflecting the multifaceted nature of Smith’s artistry and persona. Clare Freestone, the curator of photography at the National Portrait Gallery, emphasized that this display offers fans a deeper connection to the beloved artist through a piece that is both personal and public.
Sam Smith’s Reaction
Sam Smith expressed immense gratitude and excitement upon the unveiling of the portrait. They described the experience as “an honour” and a “dream come true,” highlighting their long-standing admiration for the work of Pierre et Gilles. Smith stated, “I have admired the beautiful work of Pierre et Gilles for years, their incredible portraits of icons like Jean Paul Gaultier and Marc Almond are truly iconic, and to sit for them was a dream come true.” This sentiment underscores the significance of the portrait not only as a piece of art but also as a personal milestone in Smith’s artistic journey.
History Makers Gallery
The portrait of Sam Smith will be displayed in the newly established History Makers gallery at the National Portrait Gallery, which reopened after a three-year refurbishment. This gallery aims to celebrate influential figures in contemporary culture, joining the ranks of other notable personalities such as Harry Styles, Peter Tatchell, and Baroness Doreen Lawrence. The inclusion of Smith’s portrait in this gallery signifies their impact on music and culture, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community, and reinforces the importance of representation in the arts.
Artistic Collaboration: Pierre et Gilles
Pierre et Gilles, the artistic duo behind the portrait, have made a name for themselves by blending photography and painting to create striking images of various celebrities. Their work often features vibrant colors and fantastical elements, making their portraits instantly recognizable. Over the years, they have depicted icons such as Kylie Minogue, Madonna, and Naomi Campbell, establishing a unique niche in the art world. The collaboration with Sam Smith adds to their impressive portfolio and highlights the duo’s ability to capture the essence of contemporary artists.
Significance of Supporting the Arts
For Sam Smith, supporting the arts is of paramount importance. They expressed their happiness when the National Portrait Gallery requested to loan the piece for public display, stating, “It’s very important to me to support the arts. Being in their new History Makers section is an honour.” This commitment to the arts reflects Smith’s understanding of the role that creativity plays in society and the importance of fostering artistic expression. By sharing their portrait with the public, Smith not only celebrates their own achievements but also encourages others to engage with and appreciate the arts.
FAQs
1. Who created the portrait of Sam Smith?
The portrait was created by the French art duo Pierre et Gilles, known for their unique blend of photography and painting.
2. What is the title of the portrait?
The title of the portrait is “Gloria,” which is also the name of Sam Smith’s 2023 album.
3. Where is the portrait displayed?
The portrait is displayed in the History Makers gallery at the National Portrait Gallery in London.
4. What does the portrait depict?
The portrait depicts Sam Smith sitting in heavenly surroundings, playing a harp, and wearing angel wings designed by JW Anderson.
5. How did Sam Smith feel about the unveiling of the portrait?
Sam Smith described the unveiling as “an honour” and a “dream come true,” expressing gratitude for the opportunity to work with Pierre et Gilles.
6. Why is the History Makers gallery significant?
The History Makers gallery celebrates influential figures in contemporary culture, showcasing their contributions to society and the arts.
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