"SAM THE EAGLE, PRESIDENTIAL PORTRAIT"
©️ Disney 2025
©️ Disney 2025
Oil on linen | 48 × 36 in. (122 × 91.4 cm)
“How does Sam Eagle see himself? How would he depict himself?” These questions came to mind when I decided to paint Sam. Patriotically—that was the obvious answer. I loved the idea of depicting Sam Eagle in a presidential portrait. In size, color, medium, and composition, this painting is inspired by actual presidential portraiture. It's a personal favorite of mine.
There are two Sam Eagles in this painting: the main one (the real one) and the ornament at the top of the flag. I was delighted that I was allowed to paint it that way, that I could playfully redesign the eagle ornament to be Sam.
I have an alternate version of this painting that I like just as much, still in its early concept phase. Back when I decided to paint Sam, I had to pick just one concept to paint, which ended up being this one. I'd love to have the opportunity to paint the other version someday.
Drawing
Imprimatura (under-painting)
