Significant renovations have been carried out at the National Portrait Gallery during its three-year closure. Notable changes include the creation of public spaces, a new visitor entrance, public forecourt, and a learning center. The updated art collection in the Inspiring People project will delve into themes of regional history, social class, gender, and ethnicity.
Dr. Alison Smith, the chief curator at the gallery, expressed the desire to rebalance the representation of art on display to make it more inclusive and reflective of contemporary Britain. Before the closure, there was an imbalance in favor of male portraits. Now, 48% of the works on display feature female sitters, and efforts have been made to ensure greater representation in terms of ethnicity, social class, and disability.
Dr. Smith emphasized the importance of representation in showcasing the diverse narratives of British history. The aim is to celebrate the contributions of individuals and groups who have been overlooked and marginalized. The gallery has incorporated various mediums like prints, popular portraits, record covers, photographs, and posters to create a more inclusive experience that speaks to a wider audience.
To address the disparity in gender representation, the renowned British artist Tracey Emin was commissioned to create a new art installation titled “The Doors.” This striking piece features 45 bronze-cast female faces adorning the National Portrait Gallery doors. In addition, the gallery will host a major exhibition called “The Time Is Always Now: Artists Reframe The Black Figure,” showcasing the works of African diasporic artists from the UK and America.
In an effort to shed light on the often overlooked stories of women who have shaped British history, the gallery has acquired five self-portraits created by female artists.
Dr. Smith reflected on the curation process, describing it as a long but fulfilling journey. The results are visually stunning and captivating, providing an interesting and engaging experience for visitors. The collection serves as both an educational and informative resource, while also being highly entertaining.
The National Portrait Gallery was officially opened by the Princess of Wales, the gallery’s patron, on Tuesday. It is set to reopen to the public on June 22nd.
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