Inspired by the museum’s triennial Outwin Boochever Portrait Competition, the 2025 Teen Portrait Competition will be on view January 24 - August 30, 2026.
Check out the online exhibition of 2025's winners and finalists
Check out the online exhibition of 2022's winners and finalists
Inspired by our collection and current exhibitions, teen pop-ups are unique events that are intended to activate the National Portrait Gallery for teen audiences. These events are an opportunity for members of the Teen Museum Council to develop their ideas and create programs that will address the interests and needs of the next generation of museum visitors. Events vary widely and may be intended for parents, educators, families or teens independently.
The National Portrait Gallery invites you to join its Teen Museum Council. Teen Museum Council is an intensive program for D.C.-area teens (grades 9–12) who are interested in developing leadership skills, learning about themselves through portraiture and art and making the Portrait Gallery an engaging place for teenagers. Teen Museum Council, also known as TMC, is a program for teens by teens to foster more interest in museums and create a community for local teens.
TMC members have the opportunity to take part in a variety of activities. These include creating teen-centered events and participating in workshops and training sessions with museum professionals. In the process, they will gain experience at the museum while developing creative and critical thinking skills. Teen Museum Council meets once a week during the school year and requires a year-long commitment.
The application for the 25-26 Teen Museum Council is CLOSED. Check back in Spring 2026 for the 26-27 school year opportunity.
