King Charles III's first official portrait since his coronation has generated significant public reaction. The portrait, created by British artist Jonathan Yeo, was unveiled on May 14, 2024, at Buckingham Palace. The painting features King Charles in his Welsh Guards uniform, a role he has held since 1975, with notable detailing including a butterfly on his shoulder, symbolizing transformation and rebirth, an idea attributed to Charles himself.
Dr. Shola Mos-Shogbamimu, an academic and race commentator, took to the social media platform X to criticize the predominantly red painting, terming it a representation of the "Bloodstained Legacy" of the British Monarchy. Her comments sparked a strong backlash online, with some users calling her remarks uncreative and immature.
Reactions to the portrait have been mixed. Some viewers likened the intense red hues to flames or blood, drawing harsh comparisons to a possessed character from the film "Ghostbusters II." Others suggested it resembled a defaced artwork akin to the actions by climate activist groups like Extinction Rebellion. Additionally, GB News host Martin Daubney and numerous social media users expressed their displeasure, some labeling it disturbing and off-putting.
The portrait's installation was commissioned in 2020 to celebrate Charles's 50 years as a member of The Drapers’ Company. The artist, Yeo, explained his intent to marry traditional royal portraiture with contemporary aesthetics while reflecting the subject's humanity and role evolution. Despite the critique, Queen Camilla and King Charles himself showed appreciation for the artwork.
The painting will be on display at the Philip Mould Gallery in London from May 16 to June 14, before moving to Drapers' Hall at the end of August.