These Americans—artists, politicians, scientists, inventors, activists, and performers—form our national identity. They help us understand who we are and remind us of what we can aspire to be. Get to know us at the National Portrait Gallery.

Featuring scientists, statesmen, and film stars, glimpsed through rare nineteenth-century daguerreotypes or year-old digital video, the National Portrait Gallery collections bring you face to face with America.

Barrier-free access to the National Portrait Gallery is available. Ramps are located on both sides of the 8th and G Streets NW entrance. If you are using MetroAccess Paratransit, please use 800 G Street NW as the address for our building.

Apr 26, 2024 · The Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery and the Archives of American Art will present “Felix Gonzalez-Torres: Always to Return,” an exhibition focused on the artist’s deep engagement with portraiture and the construction of identity, as well as how history is …

Jul 12, 2024 · The extraordinary joy one finds in Lyle Ashton Harris’s informal portrait of the feminist writer and educator bell hooks (1952–2021) and her friend Marlon Riggs (1957–1994) speaks not only of their close relationship but also of a very fertile time in American culture.

Feb 27, 2016 · Gallery Talks & Tours, Lectures & Discussions : Fri Feb 14: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Portrait Gallery Art Studio: Kids & Families, Workshops

The National Portrait Gallery belongs to all Americans. Federal funding will always be important as it allows the museum to remain open 364 days per year and free of charge to all.

Inspired by our collection and current exhibitions, teen pop-ups are unique events that are intended to activate the National Portrait Gallery for teen audiences.

All events and programs are held virtually unless otherwise noted due to COVID-19. Please check each event listing for more details. For more information on the Portrait Gallery’s remote programs and exhibitions, explore the museum's “Visit at Home” page.

The National Portrait Gallery was authorized and founded by Congress in 1962 with the mission to acquire and display portraits of individuals who have made significant contributions to the history, development, and culture of the people of the United States.