Gifting a portrait ensures it becomes part of the National Portrait Gallery Collection, remaining a gift to the nation for eternity. All proposed gifts of works of art will need to be discussed with a curator and meet the collection development criteria. Gifts of works of art made under the Cultural Gifts Program will entitle you to a tax deduction, which may be spread over five years.
In developing the National Portrait Gallery Collection, we consider portraits produced in any medium but the sitter must:
- be Australian-born or closely associated with Australia
- have contributed substantially to Australian life, history or culture
- be of enduring public interest
In addition, the portrait must possess aesthetic qualities consistent with the Collection.
If you would like to offer a portrait, and you believe it meets these criteria, please complete the Portrait Acquisition Enquiries form.
We also consider donations through the Cultural Gifts Program and by bequest – with the caveat that the same criteria apply.
Browse the portraits donated to the National Portrait Gallery collection so far.
Portrait valuations
We are unable to provide valuations of artworks. Please refer to the Australian Government’s lists of approved valuers.