Governor Jay Inslee unveiled his official portrait at the State Capitol on Tuesday. The painting was created by Grace Flott, a native of Spokane and graduate of Ferris High School. Flott, who now lives in Seattle, was chosen by Inslee and his wife Trudi after a nationwide search.
The portrait shows Inslee holding a folder labeled “The State of Washington” with Mount Rainier in the background. Inslee praised Flott’s work, saying, “I cannot be more impressed with what you did here. It’s incredible.”
Flott received $55,000 for the commission and worked with members of the Office of the Governor to select a design and conduct a photo session.
The painting took about seven weeks to complete. The portrait highlights Washington’s environment, which was a key focus during Inslee’s three terms as governor. Inslee pointed out the importance of Mount Rainier’s glaciers and snow in the painting.
“Because of what we’re doing in Washington state, a hundred years from now, Mount Rainier is going to continue to have that glacier and snow on it,” Inslee said to applause from the audience.
Inslee’s official portrait revealed
Flott aimed to create a portrait that was unique to Inslee while still fitting in with the tradition of official portraits.
She placed Inslee at Mount Rainier, a recognizable symbol of Washington’s natural beauty, instead of the state Capitol or an abstract setting like some of his predecessors. “It’s about understanding the story we’re conveying,” Flott said. “Paintings always invite us to slow down and meditate on this person, what he stands for, and how we, as a greater community, can continue his work together.”
Flott took inspiration from Inslee’s background and his realist perspective.
“It’s not a painting where he’s overly happy and cheery, but he’s looking toward the future and the work that needs to be done,” she said. Inslee praised Flott as an example of the creative spirit of Washington. “We gave her an idea, and she turned it into a visual image,” Inslee said.
“Grace, you captured the dream that we gave you.”
To honor her work, Inslee named Flott the “Washingtonian of the Day,” a rare recognition given by the governor. He presented her with a certificate to mark the designation. The portrait will join those of other past governors at the Capitol.
It serves as a testament to Inslee’s legacy and a significant addition to Washington’s cultural heritage.