London's National Portrait Gallery, usually home to the likes of Hans Holbein the Younger and Anthony Van Dyck (you know, the guys who painted royalty before selfies were a thing), is finally inviting some contemporary artists to the party. Their new "Artist Focus" program aims to drag portraiture into the 21st century, and they've chosen a rather fitting inaugural artist.
First up in the Weston Wing's trio of annual free exhibitions is American-born British artist Issy Wood. Her show kicks off October 9 and runs through February 28, 2027. Wood, if you're wondering why her name sounds vaguely familiar, made waves in 2025 by painting pop star Charli XCX for a Vanity Fair cover. Because apparently, that's where we are now: royal portraits, then pop star portraits.
The National Portrait Gallery already owns three of Wood's pieces, including Self Portrait 2 (2021), which will be on display. The exhibition will also feature eleven paintings from Wood's personal collection and a cheeky seven portraits that have never seen the light of day before. Consider it a sneak peek into the mind of someone who probably doesn't use a ruff collar in her self-portraits.
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Start Your News DetoxFlavia Frigeri, the NPG's chief curator, reminds us that the gallery was the world's first portrait gallery way back in 1856. So, innovation is apparently in their DNA. She sees it as the perfect spot for "continued experimentation" and inspiring future generations with "groundbreaking artists." Groundbreaking, indeed.
The Portrait Award Continues, With a New Name
Meanwhile, the gallery's international portrait competition, which has been running since 1980, is still very much a thing. In 2024, it got a slight rebrand, becoming the Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer Portrait Award, thanks to a hefty sponsorship from the law firm. It comes with a rather pleasing £35,000 cash prize.
This year's winner? Marc Dalessio, for his portrait Jean-Denis, named after his neighbor. Because sometimes, the most interesting subjects are just next door. Other notable entries included Lucille Dweck's portrait of British Iraqi writer Amrou Al-Kadhi, and Hannah George's Mummy Needs A Break – a title that likely resonates with pretty much every parent who's ever lived.
