Though portraits depict real people, the sitter’s position, artist’s style, and our knowledge of the person featured influence what we see as viewers. In this video, David C. Ward, historian at the National Portrait Gallery, asks us to question if portraits are fact
or fiction.

This video series, "Explore with Smithsonian Experts," connects students and teachers with the skill and technique of Smithsonian experts who describe their work at our nation's museums. In each short film, experts introduce new ways to observe, record, research, and share, while using real artifacts and work experiences. Supports Common Core ELA standards.

Produced by the Smithsonian Center for Learning and Digital Access and Pearson Foundation.