Even though the National Portrait Gallery is still closed to the public, the museum will be holding virtual discussions throughout August to keep you entertained and engaged. From podcasts to Zoom discussions, make sure to free up some time this month to sit in on one of these five discussions.
PORTRAITS: Self Made with Janine Sherman Barrois and Elle Johnson
Available Tuesday, Aug. 4
Whether you listen to your favorite podcasts on your drive to work or waiting for the Metro, make sure to catch the latest edition of the National Portrait Gallery’s Portraits podcast. The season finale features the writers of Netflix’s Self Made, Janine Sherman Barrois and Elle Johnson, as they discuss Madam CJ Walker, the limited series and her achievements. // free
Queer Art and Controversy at the Smithsonian: A Conversation with Lonnie G. Bunch III and John W. McCarter Jr.
Tuesday, Aug. 4, 5 p.m.
Even though freedom of speech is one of this country’s founding principles, censorship still plays a role in a variety of institutions, including the National Portrait Gallery. Join current and former members of the Portrait Gallery and Smithsonian as they discuss the controversy behind the censorship of the 2010 Hide/Seek: Difference and Desire in American Portraiture exhibition. Registration is required. // Zoom; free
Genevieve Gaignard and wanda Raimundi-Ortiz in Conversation with Taina Caragol
Tuesday, Aug. 18, 5 p.m.
Get in the mind of artists Genevieve Gaignard and Wanda Raimundi-Ortiz. Portrait Gallery curator Taina Caragol will lead a discussion to get in-depth knowledge on their photographic and performance practices. Registration is required. // Zoom; free
Art AfterWords: A Book Discussion
Tuesday, Aug. 18, 5:30-7 p.m.
Join the National Portrait Gallery and DC Public Library for a discussion about books, culture and activism. The discussion will surround Gordon Parks’ portrait of Malcom X from the gallery’s own collection and Mikki Kendall’s 2020 book Hood Feminism: Notes from the Women That a Movement Forgot. Registration is required. // Zoom; free
Instagram Live: A Discussion on Women’s Suffrage with Kate Clarke Lemay and Lara Vapnek
Available Tuesday, Aug. 18
Celebrate the ratification of the 19th Amendment and upcoming 100th anniversary of its passing (Wednesday, Aug. 26) with a discussion about the history of suffrage activism and the activists behind the movement. The discussion will touch on suffrage advocate Leonora O’Reilly, who has a portrait in the museum. // Instagram: @smithsoniannpg; free
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