A portrait of singer Sam Smith depicted as a near-naked angel will soon be on display in London's National Portrait Gallery, alongside portraits of prominent members of the British royal family. The painting, titled “Gloria,” will be featured in the “History Makers” section, sharing space with images of the King and the Princess of Wales.
The artwork, created by French duo Pierre et Gilles, portrays Smith with angel wings, dressed in a toga, and playing a harp in a heavenly scene. In response to the portrait's inclusion in the gallery, Smith expressed his honor, saying it was a “dream come true” to be featured alongside historical figures like Henry VIII and Winston Churchill.
“I was so happy when the National Portrait Gallery asked me if they could loan the piece,” Smith said, according to The Telegraph. “It’s very important to me to support the arts. Being in their new History Makers section is an honor.”
Smith, who came out as non-binary in 2019, is known for his overly sexualized clothing and performances. The National Portrait Gallery has stated that the image aims to blend “reality, daily life, dreams, and fantasies” and welcomed its display.
“I’m absolutely delighted that Sam has agreed to lend this incredible work to the National Portrait Gallery, aid Clare Freestone, the gallery’s curator of photography. “An amazing moment for Sam’s fans to connect on a deeper level with the portrait. Its display presents a unique opportunity for visitors to see a much-loved artwork, borrowed from the singer’s own collection and on show for the first time in a public art gallery.”
