Trump Pushes for Dedicated Display at Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery
The Trump administration is seeking a dedicated Smithsonian display featuring artwork from supporters, raising new questions about political influence over cultural institutions.
President Donald Trump is seeking a dedicated display at the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery featuring artwork created by his supporters, according to reports citing administration officials.
The proposed display would include portraits and fan-created artwork sent to the White House by supporters across the country. The idea emerged following a December visit to the museum by Trump administration representatives, including senior protocol officials and the president’s official photographer.
In a statement, the White House framed the proposal as a way to showcase artwork submitted by Americans who support the president, emphasizing public engagement with national institutions.
The National Portrait Gallery traditionally exhibits a photographic portrait of a sitting president and commissions an official painted portrait after the president leaves office. While multiple depictions of past presidents exist in the museum’s collection, expanded displays have historically been reserved for former officeholders rather than sitting presidents.
The museum has not confirmed whether it will create a dedicated display for Trump or expand his representation within existing exhibitions.
The proposal comes amid broader tensions between the administration and the Smithsonian Institution. Over the past year, Trump has criticized the museum network’s presentation of American history and called for changes to exhibition narratives. The administration has also sought greater oversight of Smithsonian programming and has raised the possibility of withholding federal funding if its concerns are not addressed.
Changes related to Trump’s representation at the National Portrait Gallery have already drawn attention. The museum recently updated the photograph representing Trump in its presidential exhibition and modified accompanying label information.
The situation highlights an ongoing debate over political influence, historical interpretation, and institutional independence at federally supported cultural organizations.
