Stephen Harper's Official Portrait to Join Parliament's Historic Collection
Two decades after leading the Conservative Party of Canada to its first electoral victory, former Prime Minister Stephen Harper will see his official portrait unveiled in the House of Commons Foyer. This significant event marks the first addition to Parliament's prime ministerial portrait collection since Paul Martin's inclusion in 2015.
A Milestone Celebration on Parliament Hill
The portrait unveiling ceremony, scheduled for February 3, coincides with the 20th anniversary of Harper's initial election victory in 2006. The gala event on Parliament Hill will commemorate nearly a decade of Conservative governance under Harper's leadership, during which he secured three consecutive election wins in 2006, 2008, and 2011.
Anna Tomala, Harper's spokesperson, emphasized the broader significance of the anniversary events, stating they serve as "a timely reminder that Canadian sovereignty is upheld through an enduring Parliament, strong institutions and the peaceful, orderly transfer of power."
The Artist's Perspective on a Historic Subject
Renowned Canadian artist Phil Richards, commissioned to create the portrait, spent nearly a year collaborating closely with the former prime minister. Richards traveled to Harper's Calgary home in early 2022 to begin the creative process, where he gained unique insights into his subject's personality.
"One thing I will say about him is that he's probably one of the most engaged sitters I've ever worked with," Richards revealed. "He was really personable, and he's funny, and he's an excellent writer."
The artist immersed himself in Harper's literary works, reading both "Right Here, Right Now" about political leadership and "A Great Game" exploring early professional hockey in Toronto. While Richards remains discreet about specific portrait details before the official unveiling, he hinted at including "a tiny Stanley Cup" somewhere in the composition.
Historical Context and Political Legacy
Harper holds the distinction of being the only prime minister to emerge from the modern Conservative Party of Canada, which he co-founded in 2004 alongside Peter MacKay, the final leader of the Progressive Conservative Party. This political consolidation reshaped Canada's conservative movement and established the foundation for Harper's subsequent electoral successes.
The portrait collection in Parliament's West Block currently displays 21 of Canada's 24 prime ministers, with Harper's addition leaving only the two most recent former prime ministers and the current officeholder awaiting their official portraits.
Following the Parliament Hill ceremony, additional anniversary celebrations will continue at Ottawa's Rogers Centre, creating a weekend of reflection on Harper's political legacy and the Conservative Party's evolution over two decades.
