How art can help construct and frame power
When we look at the portrait of a prominent politician, what are we really seeing? Certainly, a person, a leader we naturally link to the country or political movement they represent. Yet, there is much more than that: every story told by a political portrait is a meticulously crafted composition, designed to project the exact image we instinctively associate to the figure before us. Art and politics have been intertwined for centuries, influencing each other in ways that are sometimes almost imperceptible, yet unmistakably powerful in shaping the observers’ perceptions.
This intersection is perfectly depicted in political portraits: safely sheltered within any brush stroke or pixel, there is a rich mosaic of meaning whose tiles are colors, symbols, poses that speak volumes without voicing a single word. Their language is all but new: it’s one that we’ve been refining for ages, that has framed perceptions of power and authority for centuries.
When it comes to conveying power, symbolism has long been a language of political portraits; in Byzantine art, rulers were often pictured with halos, sacred objects and in divine settings, unequivocal symbols of their God–given authority. These tokens were not chosen randomly: they were statements meant to reinforce their position, and elevate it beyond other humans.
Unsurprisingly, this tradition is far from dead: today’s political leaders still tap into this visual language to shape perceptions. When creating Barack Obama’s portrait, Kehinde Wiley knew exactly how to implement this tool: the former president is not in the traditional context of political portraits, with an American flag behind him, sitting behind a desk; the entirety of the background hosts a bright green foliage, embellished by a variety of flowers: each of them speaks to a chapter of Obama’s personal life and political journey, connecting him to the land, the people, and an evolving national story. Like the Byzantine emperors, Obama is more than an individual: he projects a broader narrative, rooted in the collective imagination.
In political portraits, the background isn’t just scenery: it’s a crafted environment that amplifies authority and captures ideals. Neoclassical art often featured grand, stately settings, emphasizing themes of structure, order, and control to elevate the subject. A powerful example are Napoleon’s portraits in his study: surrounded by symbols of governance like documents, books, and a clock marking the early morning hour, his dedication and sense of discipline are highlighted. Putin is frequently photographed in richly decorated rooms lined with Russian regalia, and military paraphernalia, which project an image of resilience and tradition, connecting him to Russia’s storied past. Xi Jinping’s portraits are similarly deliberate, often featuring vast halls, grand staircases, or traditional Chinese symbols, emphasizing his alignment with both China’s ancient heritage and his vision for the future. Putin and Xi Jinping’s chosen backdrops borrow this technique from Neoclassical art : they root the leaders in their nations’ cultural narratives, portraying them as embodiments of state and legacy rather than mere individuals.
Another element that has always played an essential role in communicating authority is body language, how a leader stands, where their gaze falls. Renaissance rulers understood this perfectly, often depicted in poses that reinforced their status. Take King Henry VIII, the Renaissance King par excellence: in his famous portraits, he always stands broad and steady, his eyes fixed forward asserting dominance. His paintings were meant to project confidence with a hint of intimidation, underscoring his self-assured rule.
Even among contemporary Western democratic leaders, these techniques hardly go unnoticed: Angela Merkel, for example, is often photographed standing straight, with her hands in her signature “Merkel diamond” gesture, a pose that has come to symbolize her composed, stabilizing influence. This simple posture signals openness and strength, similarly to how Kamala Harris’ direct and warm gaze speaks to authority with a touch of relatability. Even Donald Trump’s intense, direct stare and upright stance evoke a bold asserting image of dominance, that recalls Henry VIII’s ability to fill his portraits with imposing authority.
Political portraits are more than representations: they are narratives in their own right, telling stories of power, identity, and the ideals that a leader wishes to embody. Across centuries, portraits have mastered the subtle language of art to elevate their subjects. But, while the leaders’ faces may change, and the means by which they communicate their public image evolve, the language used remains strikingly familiar, as a reminder that power, in any era, isn’t just held: it’s constructed, projected, and carefully framed.
A southern Italian girl whose favorite book all throughout her childhood was called “I want to be a journalist” (and deep down, it’s still my favorite to this day).
I’m currently in BEMACC because I’m in love with arts, and the fundamental importance of culture has always been fascinating to me.
I will never turn down the opportunity to write about anything that catches my interest, even though I have a sweet spot for anything culture - related.
