Lipscomb University appoints internationally acclaimed portrait artist Michael Shane Neal first Fine Arts Ambassador

Neal, a Lipscomb alumnus, has over 500 commissioned portraits including two in the National Portrait Gallery in Washington, D.C.

Kim Chaudoin  | 

Michael Shane Neal speaking

Lipscomb University has appointed internationally renowned portrait artist and Lipscomb alumnus Michael Shane Neal as its first Fine Arts Ambassador for the 2025-26 academic year.

Neal’s portfolio includes more than 500 commissioned portraits of distinguished figures such as Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor and President George H.W. Bush, as well as civil rights leaders John Lewis and Dr. Fred D. Gray, which are displayed in the National Portrait Gallery in Washington, D.C. He will play a key role in advancing the George Shinn College of Entertainment & the Arts and Lipscomb’s School of Art & Design. As Fine Arts Ambassador, Neal will help shape the university’s vision for fine arts education, mentor students and promote Lipscomb’s fine arts programs on a national level.

“Michael Shane Neal is not only one of the most respected portrait artists of our time but also a dedicated mentor and advocate for the next generation of artists,” said Lipscomb President Candice McQueen. “His deep connection to Lipscomb, coupled with his remarkable career and passion for mentoring young artists, makes him the perfect choice for this inaugural role. We are honored to have him serve as Fine Arts Ambassador and look forward to the meaningful impact he will have on our students and faculty.”

“I'm excited to have the opportunity to return to the campus and the art department at Lipscomb as Fine Arts Ambassador,” said Neal. “My time at the university shaped my future as an artist, and I look forward to assisting the program. I have never wavered in my belief that Lipscomb will be recognized as the strongest Christian Visual Arts education available in the country. I'm grateful for Dr. McQueen and Dean Fernandez's exciting and ambitious vision for the fine arts.”

Michael Shane Neal (left) and Fred Gray (right) with Gray's portrait in the National Portrait Gallery. Photo by Matailong Du for the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery.

Michael Shane Neal (left) and Fred Gray (right) with Gray's portrait in the National Portrait Gallery. Photo by Matailong Du for the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery.

In this role, Neal will lead a variety of initiatives, including:

  • Serving as Advisor: Shane will advise and assist with vision-casting for the area.
  • Studio Visits: A select group of students will visit his studios in Nashville and New York to gain firsthand insights into his professional artistic process.
  • Three-Day Portrait and Figure Painting Workshop: An immersive, hands-on experience featuring live model sessions, demonstrations and discussions on painting and drawing techniques.
  • Lecture Series: Two major lectures focused on building and sustaining a career in the arts:
    Becoming an Artist and Sustaining Your Passion – A reflection on the training, discipline, and mindset required for a lifelong career in the arts.
    The Business of Art – Practical insights into establishing and maintaining a professional career as a fine artist.
  • Gallery Exhibit: A special exhibition in Lipscomb’s John C. Hutcheson Gallery, co-curated by Neal, showcasing his work, with an opening reception to celebrate the collection.

“The CEA is honored to have Shane join our ranks and continue to move forward the rich tradition of the arts at Lipscomb University,” said Mike Fernandez, dean of the George Shinn College of Entertainment & the Arts. “He is a model for our students, an outstanding visual artist with top-tier skill, a successful business-minded entrepreneur and a man of deep faith. We are excited to work with him over the coming year.”

A Nashville native, Neal is recognized for his contributions to the fine arts community. His involvement with Lipscomb has remained strong over the years, previously serving as artist-in-residence and leading various workshops and lectures. Most recently, he was the featured speaker at Lipscomb’s 2024 Homecoming Chapel, where he shared his journey as an artist.

Neal’s daughter, Mattie Ree Neal, who currently serves as Lipscomb’s artist-in-residence, will assist with several of these programs. In the upcoming academic year, Lipscomb will host a special father-daughter art exhibit, showcasing their collective works.

For more information about Lipscomb University’s fine arts programs, visit www.lipscomb.edu/cea.