FARMERSBURG, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — Applications are open for the 150-year-old Hoosier tradition for a state artist to paint the Indiana governor’s portrait.
The Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites has opened the search for the next artist to be added to the long list of those who have painted the official portrait of Indiana’s governors, as Governor Eric Holcomb will be added to the historic Indiana Governors’ Portrait Collection as the state’s 55th governor.
The applications will be online through October 23 and the applicants will be reviewed by a panel of representatives from the Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites, the Indiana Arts Commission, the Office of the Governor, professional artists, and curators.
The final choice of artist is anticipated to be announced by January 31, 2024. The new painting, a 42-inch by 32-inch oil or acrylic portrait, is expected to be finished by late summer 2024 with the unveiling planned for fall 2024.
To be considered for the portrait, the artist must be a resident or native of Indiana or have graduated from an Indiana institution of higher learning, however, preferences will go to residents of Indiana.
In addition, any interested artist will need to visit the Indiana Arts Commission webpage and submit an application that includes the following:
- Resume or curriculum vitae, which should include past portrait experience and commissions, a list of their work in public collections, past exhibitions, and art training.
- An artist’s statement about their approach to portrait painting. Specific ideas about this commission may also be included but are not required.
- Six to 10 digital color samples of their portrait work, including some details, to be uploaded to the application website.
- A proposed dollar amount is required for the commission. The cost of framing should not be included in the artist’s fee.
- Contact information, including email and mailing addresses and phone numbers.
The panel will select the finalists based on the following criteria:
- Artistic excellence.
- Previous experience with portrait commissions.
- Demonstrated ability to successfully complete the commission.
Artists must have a flexible schedule and be open to travel with all travel costs reimbursed. Those with questions about the application process can contact Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites Chief Curator and Research Officer Susannah Koerber through email or at 317-233-1991.
