June 6, 2012
LONDON, England—Today in the presence of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Sharon and I, joined by the Right Honourable Stephen Harper, Prime Minister of Canada, witnessed the unveiling of The Queen’s new portrait during a ceremony at Buckingham Palace. We are proud to honour our Sovereign’s sixty years of steadfast service with this fine work of art.
Rendered by artist Phil Richards, the painting was commissioned by the Government of Canada to commemorate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and is a wonderful and tangible tribute to her dedicated reign as Queen of Canada.
It is fitting that this painting will be on display at Rideau Hall, the home of the people of Canada, upon its return to our country. I invite all Canadians and visitors from abroad to the official residence of the Governor General in Ottawa to view this newest addition to the collection of Canadian art.
With the Diamond Jubilee celebrations in London now a part of our collective history and memories, Sharon and I are grateful to have had the opportunity to represent our fellow Canadians. We will cherish this momentous occasion forever.
David Johnston
