On Wednesday, the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery unveiled the portrait of the well-known media personality and former talk show host Oprah Winfrey. The portrait adds her likeness to a distinguished collection of American historical figures.
Winfrey, who hosted the long-running “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” is also a successful businesswoman and philanthropist. At the unveiling event, she expressed her disbelief at having her picture at the Washington museum, saying that she never dreamed of such an honor. Her childhood growing up in poverty made it impossible for her to imagine this moment.
The portrait, painted by Shawn Michael Warren, a Chicago-based artist, portrays Winfrey in a flowing purple gown, standing outdoors by a tree. The portrait showcases her grace and confidence, which she has displayed throughout her career. Winfrey’s portrait now joins the likes of other famous Americans, including Harriet Tubman, the abolitionist; President Abraham Lincoln; and the former U.S. President and First Lady, Barack and Michelle Obama. The inclusion of Oprah Winfrey’s portrait in this prestigious gallery is a testament to her significant contributions to American culture and society.