WASHINGTON, D.C.- The Smithsonian‟s National Portrait Gallery and the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Program have collaborated to mount the Smithsonian‟s first major showcase of contemporary Asian American portraiture. Through the work of seven artists from across the country and around the world, the exhibition offers thought-provoking interpretations of the Asian American experience and representations against and beyond the stereotypes that have obscured the complexity of being Asian in America. The exhibition is open Aug. 12 through Oct. 14, 2012. The Portraiture Now‟ exhibition series showcases innovative trends in portraiture, said Martin Sullivan, director of the National Portrait Gallery. Portraiture Now: Asian American Portraits of Encounter,‟ is a provocative and