Sam Smith honored with portrait in London's national gallery
In a testament to their enduring influence on global music and culture, Sam Smith has been honored with a portrait now displayed in London's National Portrait Gallery. This latest recognition adds to the impressive list of accolades amassed by the British singer-songwriter over the past decade.
5:16 PM EDT, July 31, 2024
At 32, Sam Smith has established themselves as a pivotal figure in both the British and international music scenes, with a career marked by critically acclaimed albums such as In the Lonely Hour (2014) and Gloria (2023). Their chart-topping hits, including "Stay With Me" and "Unholy"—a duet with Kim Petras—have dominated global airwaves. Smith's artistic achievements have been recognized with five Grammy Awards and an Oscar, further cementing their place in music history.
Sam Smith in the national portrait gallery in London
The National Portrait Gallery recently unveiled Smith's portrait as part of its new "History Makers" exhibition. The artwork, titled Gloria, represents a significant shift in Smith's visual identity, moving away from the controversial "devilish" aesthetic that accompanied the promotion of "Unholy." Rendered in soft pastel hues, the portrait depicts Smith seated in a celestial setting, surrounded by white columns and pink flowers, playing a harp while adorned with angelic wings and a golden crown.
Created in 2023 by the renowned French artistic duo Pierre et Gilles (Pierre Commoy and Gilles Blanchard), the baroque-inspired portrait is a striking addition to the gallery's collection. It was previously part of Smith's private collection and has never been publicly exhibited. In a statement to the BBC, Smith expressed their delight at the gallery's request to display the portrait, saying, "It's very important to me to support the arts. Being in their new History Makers section is an honour."
Portrait of sam smith at the "history makers" exhibition
The portrait stands alongside those of other significant figures in British culture, including singer Harry Styles, Pride in London co-founder Peter Tatchell, and racial equality advocate Baroness Doreen Lawrence.
Smith's collaboration with acclaimed fashion designer J.W. Anderson for the portrait's styling is also noteworthy. Reflecting on the experience, Smith said, "Working once again with Jonathan Anderson on the look was a beautiful experience." Clare Freestone, a curator at the National Portrait Gallery, added, "I'm absolutely delighted that Sam has agreed to lend this incredible work to the National Portrait Gallery."
As part of the "History Makers" exhibition, Smith's portrait is a powerful reminder of their contributions to the cultural landscape and the ever-evolving narrative of contemporary British identity.
