Events calendar

Lucian Freud Portraits

9 February - 27 May 2012
Wolfson and Ground Floor Lerner Galleries
Booking now open.

Supported by Bank of America Merrill Lynch

Spring Season 2012 sponsored by Herbert Smith

BP Portrait Award 2012

21 June - 23 September 2012
Admission free

The BP Portrait Award showcases the very best in contemporary portrait painting from around the world.

The Queen: Art and Image

17 May - 21 October 2012
Porter Gallery
Admission charge will apply. Booking now open

London Presentation sponsored by KPMG

The Lost Prince: The Life and Death of Henry Stuart

18 October 2012 - 13 January 2013
Wolfson Gallery
Admission charge will apply
The Lost Prince, is the first exhibition to look at the life of Henry, Prince of Wales (1594-1612), focusing on a remarkable period in British history, dominated by a prince whose death at a young age precipitated widespread national grief, and led eventually to the accession to the throne of his younger brother, the doomed King Charles I.

Taylor Wessing Photographic Portrait Prize 2012
Call for entries

8 November 2012 - 17 February 2013
Porter Gallery

Call for Entries now open. First prize £12,000. Open to everyone aged 18 or over from around the world. Closing date 9 July 2012.

Sponsored by Taylor Wessing

Gallery Talk: History of Beauty

Past event archive
22 May 2012, 15:00
Check signage on the day for details
Free
Beauty secrets from Tudors to Georgians, including painted veins, mouse fur eyebrows and lots of deadly poisons. With Clare Gittings.

Lecture: Iconography of the Queens

24 May 2012, 13:15-14:00
Ondaatje Wing Theatre
Free
Author and historian Alison Weir explores the changing role of royal portraiture, from Mary I to Elizabeth II.

In Conversation: Sue Tilley and William Feaver

A part of Late Shift
24 May 2012, 19:00-20:00
Ondaatje Wing Theatre
Tickets: £5/£4

Sue Tilley, Freud’s model for his painting Benefits Supervisor Sleeping discusses her experience as a sitter with author William Feaver.

Guest DJ

A part of Late Shift
24 May 2012, 18:00-20:45
Room 32
Free

Glamorous bearded lady Timberlina will be taking to the decks with tunes inspired by Lucian Freud and the lives of his models and muses.

Drop-in Drawing

A part of Late Shift
25 May 2012, 18:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free
Start your weekend with a relaxing drawing session in the Gallery.  You will spend time looking at portraits, exploring different elements such as technique, composition and line. Suitable for all abilities and all materials provided.

Live Music: Flotilla

A part of Late Shift
25 May 2012, 18:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free
A unique ensemble of saxophonists performing music with unusual combinations.

Workshop: Painting in the Studio

A part of Late Shift
25 May 2012, 18:30-20:30
Check signage on the day for details
Tickets: £10

Inspired by Lucian Freud Portraits. With artist Dan Llywelyn Hall.

Fully booked

Gallery Talk: Not on the Label

A part of Late Shift
25 May 2012, 19:30-20:30
Location: Check signage on day for details
Free
Ever wondered what doesn’t get written on the labels? Find out more…

Portrait of the Day: The Railway Boys of the 19th Century

26 May 2012, 12:00-12:30
Room 27
Free

by Emily Worth

Arguably the three most important gentlemen in the development of the railways and engineering designs of bridges, tunnels and engines, this talk will focus on Robert Stephenson (1803 – 1859), Isambard Kingdom Brunel (1806 – 1859) and Sir Daniel Gooch (1816 – 1889). Come along to this introduction on their careers, engineering feats and their relationships. The steam engines, railways and engineered structures of this period have changed the landscape of Britain and the world.  You don't have to be a railway enthusiast to enjoy this talk; it encompasses information about the Victorians, their values and aims which are embodied in the lives of these three gentlemen.

Family Drop-In Art Workshops: Your Majesty

26 May 2012, 11:00-16:00
Check signage on the day for details
Free

Explore the royal portraits and then create a self portrait of you and your family as royalty.

In collaboration with Cbeebies

Drop-in event, no ticket required. Suitable for ages 5+ and their carers.

Workshop: Painting in the Studio

A part of Late Shift
26 May 2012, 11:00-17:00
Check signage on the day for details
Tickets: £50/£40

Inspired by Freud’s naked portraits learn the art of life drawing, working from a live model using charcoal and paint. Led by artist Sadie Lee. Ticket includes entry to the exhibition.

Fully booked

Gallery Talk: Changes in Portraiture in the early 20th Century

27 May 2012, 15:00
Check signage on the day for details
Free
With historian Sarah Ciacci.

Drop-in Drawing

A part of Late Shift
29 May 2012, 15:00
Check signage on the day for details
Free

Start your weekend with a relaxing drawing session in the Gallery.  You will spend time looking at portraits, exploring different elements such as technique, composition and line. Suitable for all abilities and all materials provided.

Visualising Portraits: Conversation Piece at the Royal Lodge

31 May 2012, 14:00
Check signage on the day for details
Free
Picture description for visually impaired visitors.

Guest DJ

A part of Late Shift
31 May 2012, 18:00
Room 32
Free

Enjoy a drink at the Late Shift bar while our guest DJ brings the Main Hall to life with an eclectic music selection.

Exhibition Tour: The Queen: Art & Image

A part of Late Shift
31 May 2012, 19:30
Location: Check signage on day for details
Free
John Wilson leads a tour of the exhibition in British Sign Language with interpretation into English.

Live Music: Master of the Queen's Music

A part of Late Shift
1 June 2012, 18:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free

In response to The Queen: Art & Image, the Ligeti Quartet performs music by Sir Peter Maxwell Davies and John Cage.

Part of The Queen: Art and Image exhibition

Introductory Tour

A part of Late Shift
1 June 2012, 19:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free

A whistle stop tour of highlights in the Collection, the Gallery’s history and top tips for enjoying your visit, with historian James Hicks.

Drop-In Drawing Session

A part of Late Shift
1 June 2012, 18:30-20:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free

Sketching in the Gallery with artist Grace Adam. Start your weekend with a relaxing drawing session in the Gallery. You will spend time looking at portraits, exploring different elements such as technique, composition and line. Drawing from the portraits encourages you to look slowly and carefully at the works, giving you an artist’s perspective. There is a short introduction at 18.30 but feel free to drop in whenever you like. You can stay for 10 minutes or 2 hours. The class is suitable for both beginners and more confident artists. All materials are provided.

Portrait of the Day

2 June 2012, 12:00
Check signage on day for details
Free

A talk on a chosen portrait in the Gallery's Collection.

Highlights of the Collection

3 June 2012, 15:00
Check signage on day for details
Free

Sunday Session: Status Symbol

3 June 2012, 11:00-16:00
Check signage on the day for details
Free

Explore ways of depicting status in photographic portraits, experimenting with viewpoints, poses, props and scene-setting with designer Georgia Lowe from the Royal Shakespeare Company and photographer Othello De’Souza-Hartley, inspired by The Queen: Art & Image.

Whitsun Half Term Activities: Character Crowns

4 June 2012, 13:00-16:00
Check signage on the day for details
Free

Create a special crown to wear featuring all your favourite things

Drop–in session, no ticket required. Suitable for ages 5+ and their carers.

Whitsun Half Term Activities: Beautiful Bunting

5 June 2012, 13:00-16:00
Check signage on the day for details
Free

Celebrate the summer with festive portrait bunting.

Drop-in session, no ticket required. For ages 5+ and their carers.

Whitsun Half Term Activities: Super Sashes

6 June 2012, 13:00-16:00
Check signage on the day for details
Free

Design and decorate a special sash filled with your drawings .

Drop–in session, no ticket required For ages 5+ and their carers.

Charlotte - The Forgotten Princess

7 June 2012, 13:15-14:00
Ondaatje Wing Theatre
Free

Art historian Alexandra Loske explores the short life of George IV’s only daughter, Princess Charlotte.

Whitsun Half Term Activities: Portrait Medals

7 June 2012, 13:00-16:00
Check signage on the day for details
Free

Who would you give a medal to this summer? Design and make a special award.

Drop–in session, no ticket required For ages 5+ and their carers.

Inspirations: Lord Bill Morris

A part of Late Shift
7 June 2012, 19:00
Check signage on the day for details
Tickets: £5 (£4 concessions and Gallery Supporters)
Book online or call 020 7306 0055

Lord Bill Morris, former General Secretary of the Transport and General Workers' Union, talks about the people who have influenced him including London Chartist leader William Cuffay.

Exhibition Tour: The Queen: Art & Image

A part of Late Shift
7 June 2012, 19:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free

Find out more about this exhibition staged to mark the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.

Part of The Queen: Art and Image exhibition

Free tour ticket required, available from 17.00 on the day. Timed exhibition ticket must be purchased.

Guest DJ: Richard Osborne

A part of Late Shift
7 June 2012, 18:00-20:45
Check signage on the day for details
Free

Listen and unwind at the Late Shift Bar.

Whitsun Half Term Activities: Picture Jigsaws

8 June 2012, 13:00-16:00
Check signage on the day for details
Free

Make your favourite portrait into a colourful jigsaw.

Drop–in session, no ticket required For ages 5+.

Live Music: Concordia International Ensemble

A part of Late Shift
8 June 2012, 18:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free

Gillian Humphreys, artistic director of the Concordia Foundation, presents ‘The Musical World of Charles Dickens’.

Gallery Talk Fit for a Queen

A part of Late Shift
8 June 2012, 19:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free

Discover more about Elizabethan high fashion with historian Leslie Rivett.

Drop-In Drawing Session

A part of Late Shift
8 June 2012, 18:30-20:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free

Sketching in the Gallery with artist Andy Pankhurst. Start your weekend with a relaxing drawing session in the Gallery. You will spend time looking at portraits, exploring different elements such as technique, composition and line. Drawing from the portraits encourages you to look slowly and carefully at the works, giving you an artist’s perspective. There is a short introduction at 18.30 but feel free to drop in whenever you like. You can stay for 10 minutes or 2 hours. The class is suitable for both beginners and more confident artists. All materials are provided.

Workshop: Painting in the Studio

A part of Late Shift
8 June 2012, 18:30-20:30
Check signage on the day for details
Tickets: £10
Book online or call 020 7306 0055

How does the way an image is made affect the viewer’s response to it? Inspired by The Queen: Art & Image experiment with painting and collage, with artist Grace Adam.

Portrait of the Day

9 June 2012, 12:00
Check signage on day for details
Free

A talk on a chosen portrait in the Gallery's Collection.

Writers in the Collection

10 June 2012, 15:00
Check signage on day for details
Free

Find out more with author and historian Lucinda Hawksley.

Famous in the 50s: Photographs by Daniel Farson

12 June 2012, 15:00
Check signage on day for details
Free

Curator Clare Freestone talks about the current display of photographs chronicling 1950s Soho by Picture Post photographer Daniel Farson.

18th Century Londoners

14 June 2012, 13:15
Ondaatje Wing Theatre
Free

Historian Jerry White talks about key movers and shakers in the city.

Inspirations: Richard Dawkins

A part of Late Shift
14 June 2012, 19:00
Check signage on the day for details
Tickets: £5 (£4 concessions and Gallery Supporters)
Book online or call 020 7306 0055
Richard Dawkins, evolutionary biologist and author of The God Delusion, discusses the people who have inspired him including Charles Darwin.

Gallery Talk: Clandestine Romances

A part of Late Shift
14 June 2012, 19:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free
Find out about forbidden romances and youthful elopements behind portraits of respectable women in the Collection, with art historian Julie Barlow.

Resident DJ: Edward Otchere

A part of Late Shift
14 June 2012, 18:00-20:45
Check signage on the day for details
Free

Music from the Commonwealth nations of New Zealand and Australia.

Part of The Queen: Art and Image exhibition

Live Music: Catherine AD

A part of Late Shift
15 June 2012, 18:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free

Self-taught multi-instrumentalist Catherine AD, lauded by Rob da Bank and NME, plays her beautiful chamber pop.

Gallery Talk: Not on the Label

A part of Late Shift
15 June 2012, 19:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free
An alternative take on highlights of our Collection with artist and art historian Liz Rideal.

Drop-In Drawing Session

A part of Late Shift
15 June 2012, 18:30-20:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free

Sketching in the Gallery with artist Sue Wilson. Start your weekend with a relaxing drawing session in the Gallery. You will spend time looking at portraits, exploring different elements such as technique, composition and line. Drawing from the portraits encourages you to look slowly and carefully at the works, giving you an artist’s perspective. There is a short introduction at 18.30 but feel free to drop in whenever you like. You can stay for 10 minutes or 2 hours. The class is suitable for both beginners and more confident artists. All materials are provided.

Storytelling for Families: The Two Pirate Queens!

16 June 2012, 10:30-11:15
Free

Hear the tale of Elizabeth I, Queen of England, who meets the Pirate Queen of Ireland and through that meeting dreams of another life- the freedom of the open sea, the call of faraway lands. After the story, come and make a pirate hat.

No ticket required. Sessions last approximately 45 minutes. For ages 3+ and their carers.

Portrait of the Day

16 June 2012, 12:00
Check signage on day for details
Free

A talk on a chosen portrait in the Gallery's Collection.

Family Art Workshops

16 June 2012, 11:30-13:00
Free

Explore portraits in the Collection, followed by an art activity.

Free ticket required, available one hour before the event starts on a first come, first served basis. Sessions last approximately 90 minutes. For ages 5+ and their carers.

Storytelling for Families: The Two Pirate Queens!

16 June 2012, 13:30
Free

Hear the tale of Elizabeth I, Queen of England, who meets the Pirate Queen of Ireland and through that meeting dreams of another life- the freedom of the open sea, the call of faraway lands. After the story, come and make a pirate hat.

No ticket required. Sessions last approximately 45 minutes. For ages 3+ and their carers.

Family Art Workshops

16 June 2012, 14:30-16:00
Free

Explore portraits in the Collection, followed by an art activity.

Free ticket required, available one hour before the event starts on a first come, first served basis. Sessions last approximately 90 minutes. For ages 5+ and their carers.

Famous Fathers

17 June 2012, 15:00
Free

To celebrate Fathers' Day, historian Paul Johnson explores some of the famous fathers in our Collection, from Charles II to Charles Dickens, looking at how their relationships with their children changed them.

18th Century Women Writers

19 June 2012, 15:00
Free

Assistant Curator Clare Barlow reveals the glittering careers and colourful lives of these female writers.

Members Afternoon Preview: BP Portrait Award 2012

20 June 2012, 14:00-16:00
Check signage for location
Free

The BP Portrait Award is the most prestigious portrait competition in the world, promoting the very best in contemporary portrait painting. From intimate and personal images of friends and family, to revealing portraits of celebrity sitters, the exhibition presents a variety of styles and approaches that together illustrate the vitality of contemporary portrait painting.

Please RSVP for this event by email or post to:
Anna Maria Foster, Membership Co-ordinator
membersevents@npg.org.uk
National Portrait Gallery, St Martin's Place, London WC2H 0HE

Thomas Becket - Warrior, Priest, Rebel, Victim

21 June 2012, 13:15-14:00
Ondaatje Wing Theatre
Free

Historian John Guy examines this remarkable man, the dramatic times he lived in and his pivotal role in history.

Lecture: Our Diamond Queen - Her Life and Times

A part of Late Shift
21 June 2012, 19:00
Check signage on the day for details
Tickets: £5 (£4 concessions and Gallery Supporters)
Book online or call 020 7306 0055

Journalist Andrew Marr and historian Sarah Bradford examine the Queen's sixty year reign from personal, public and political angles.

Part of The Queen: Art and Image exhibition

Exhibition Tour: BP Portrait Award 2012

A part of Late Shift
21 June 2012, 19:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free

Enjoy the highlights from this contemporary portrait exhibition.

Free tour ticket required, available from 17.00 on the day. Timed exhibition ticket must be purchased.

Guest DJ

A part of Late Shift
21 June 2012, 18:00-20:45
Check signage on the day for details
Free

Listen and unwind at the Late Shift Bar.

Live Music: Soumik Datta

A part of Late Shift
22 June 2012, 18:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free
Datta collaborates with Austrian drummer Bernhard Schimpelsberger fusing funk, virtuoso Indian classical and drum and bass.

Gallery Talk: Take Another Look

A part of Late Shift
22 June 2012, 19:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free
Hear a fresh perspective on portraits of women, by women, from the 1920s to 1940s. With artist Grace Adam.

Drop-In Drawing Session

A part of Late Shift
22 June 2012, 18:30-20:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free
Sketching in the Gallery with artist Victoria Turnbull. Start your weekend with a relaxing drawing session in the Gallery. You will spend time looking at portraits, exploring different elements such as technique, composition and line. Drawing from the portraits encourages you to look slowly and carefully at the works, giving you an artist’s perspective. There is a short introduction at 18.30 but feel free to drop in whenever you like. You can stay for 10 minutes or 2 hours. The class is suitable for both beginners and more confident artists. All materials are provided.

Portrait of the Day

23 June 2012, 12:00
Check signage on day for details
Free

A talk on a chosen portrait in the Gallery's Collection.

BP Portrait Award: Next Generation Taster Session

23 June 2012
Check signage on day for details
Free

Creatively explore portraiture through the BP Portrait Award 2012. For ages 14 – 19.

Booking essential. Email bpnextgeneration@npg.org.uk or call 020 7312 2483.

BP Portrait Award: Next Generation Taster Session

24 June 2012
Check signage on day for details
Free

Creatively explore portraiture through the BP Portrait Award 2012. For ages 14 – 19.

Booking essential. Email bpnextgeneration@npg.org.uk or call 020 7312 2483.

Queen Victoria’s Image

24 June 2012, 15:00
Free

Explore the impact of photography on portraits of Queen Victoria with art historian Julie Barlow.

Visualising Portraits: Gwen John, self-portrait

28 June 2012, 14:00
Check signage on day for details
Free

Picture description for visually impaired visitors.

Gallery Tour: Tudor Rogers

A part of Late Shift
28 June 2012, 19:00
Check signage on the day for details
Free
Historian Thomas Penn, author of Winter King the biography of Henry VII, discusses the life of the Machiavellian monarch and his contemporaries in the Tudor Galleries.

Free tour ticket required, available from 17.00 on the day.

Gallery Talk: Hidden Histories

A part of Late Shift
28 June 2012, 19:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free
Delve into the unwritten pasts of some of our most celebrated sitters, led in BSL by John Wilson. With interpretation into English by Diana Smith.

Resident DJ: Edward Otchere

A part of Late Shift
28 June 2012, 18:00-20:45
Check signage on the day for details
Free

Music from the Commonwealth nations of West Indies.

Part of The Queen: Art and Image exhibition

Live Music: English National Opera

A part of Late Shift
29 June 2012, 18:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free
The finest voices from ENO's training programme Opera Works reflect highlights from the Gallery's Collection.

Discussion: Presenting Pomp

A part of Late Shift
29 June 2012, 19:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free
How did the magnificent PR machine of historic Royal Court portraiture reinforce class structure before the 20th Century? With Timberlina and special guests.

Drop-In Drawing Session

A part of Late Shift
29 June 2012, 18:30-20:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free
Sketching in the Gallery with artist Grace Adam. Start your weekend with a relaxing drawing session in the Gallery. You will spend time looking at portraits, exploring different elements such as technique, composition and line. Drawing from the portraits encourages you to look slowly and carefully at the works, giving you an artist’s perspective.
There is a short introduction at 18.30 but feel free to drop in whenever you like. You can stay for 10 minutes or 2 hours. The class is suitable for both beginners and more confident artists. All materials are provided.

Portrait of the Day

30 June 2012, 12:00
Check signage on day for details
Free

A talk on a chosen portrait in the Gallery's Collection.

Highlights of the Collection

1 July 2012, 15:00
Check signage on day for details
Free

Poetry of Motion

3 July 2012, 15:00
Check signage on day for details
Free
Assistant Curator Inga Fraser explores the body in motion with a tour of sports people and dancers in the current display.

Manliness and the Victorian Viceroy

5 July 2012
Ondaatje Wing Theatre
Free
Art historian Tracy Anderson explores the tensions between the symbolic and governing roles of the Viceroy in portraiture.

Discussion: Portraiture and Biography

A part of Late Shift
5 July 2012, 18:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free
Celebrate the launch of the Gallery’s Late Victorian Catalogue with Director Sandy Nairne and special guests.

Exhibition Tour: The Queen: Art & Image

A part of Late Shift
5 July 2012, 19:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free

In today’s celebrity culture, how have images of the Queen been used to reflect issues of class and femininity? With Timberlina and special guests.

Part of The Queen: Art and Image exhibition

Free tour ticket required, available from 17.00 on the day. Timed exhibition ticket must be purchased.

Guest DJ: Sadie Lee

A part of Late Shift
5 July 2012, 18:00-20:45
Check signage on the day for details
Free
Celebrating WorldPride, DJ Sadie Lee spins her favourite tunes.

Drop-In Drawing Session

A part of Late Shift
6 July 2012, 18:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free
Sketching in the Gallery with artist Sue Wilson.

Live Music: Brit School

A part of Late Shift
6 July 2012, 18:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free
Music students perform original music in a contemporary style in response to the BP Portrait Award 2012 shortlist.

Gallery Talk: The Age of Celebrity and Mini-Empires

A part of Late Shift
6 July 2012, 19:00
Check signage on the day for details
Free
Do portraits of the Royal Family reflect the status quo of the times? Join the discussion with Timberlina and special guests.

Gallery Talk: Introductory Tour

A part of Late Shift
6 July 2012, 19:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free
Highlights in the Collection, the Gallery’s history and top tips for enjoying your visit.

Portrait of the Day

7 July 2012
Check signage on day for details
Free
A talk on a chosen portrait in the Gallery's Collection.

BP Portrait Award: Next Generation Taster Session

7 July 2012
Check signage on day for details
Free

Creatively explore portraiture through the BP Portrait Award 2012. For ages 14 – 19.

Booking essential. Email bpnextgeneration@npg.org.uk or call 020 7312 2483.

Street Portrait Photography

7 July 2012
Check signage on day for details
£10
Book online or call 020 7306 0055

Get an introduction to taking photographs out on the street with photographer David Graham, then head out into London to capture the passing WorldPride parade. Bring your own camera or phone camera.

Suitable for all levels, materials are provided.

Controversial Characters

8 July 2012, 15:00
Check signage on day for details
Free
Learn more about notorious characters in the Collection, including the Tichborne claimant, with historian Lesley Rivett.

Double Take

10 July 2012, 15:00
Check signage on day for details
Free
Curator Charlotte Bolland examines this new display of five pairs of near identical portraits. Explore why and how multiple versions and copies were made in the 16th Century.

Imperial relations

12 July 2012, 13:15-14:00
Check signage on day for details
Free
Author and biographer Virginia Rounding explores the visits by the last Russian Tsar and Tsarina to see their relatives, the British Royal Family.

Gallery Talk: Rolling Heads

A part of Late Shift
12 July 2012, 19:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free
A grizzly tour of famous executions in British history with historian Alex Rodriguez.

Resident DJ: Edward Otchere

A part of Late Shift
12 July 2012, 18:00-20:45
Check signage on the day for details
Free

Music from the Commonwealth nations of Africa inspired by The Queen: Art & Image.

Live Music: Master of the Queen's Music

A part of Late Shift
13 July 2012, 18:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free
In response to The Queen: Art & Image a concert for flute, viola and harp.

Exhibition Tour: BP Portrait Award 2012

A part of Late Shift
13 July 2012, 19:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free

Led by art historian James Hicks.

Free tour ticket required, available from 17.00 on the day. Timed exhibition ticket must be purchased.

Drop-In Drawing Session

A part of Late Shift
13 July 2012, 18:30-20:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free
David Gentleman, the artist behind the drawings in the Underground station at Charing Cross, shares his techniques for sketching and painting London. Then put it in to practice yourself with drawing in the Gallery.

Portrait of the Day

14 July 2012, 12:00
Check signage on day for details
Free
A talk on a chosen portrait in the Gallery's Collection.

BP Portrait Award: Next Generation Taster Session

15 July 2012
Check signage on day for details
Free

Creatively explore portraiture through the BP Portrait Award 2012. For ages 14 – 19. With BSL interpretation.

Booking essential. Email bpnextgeneration@npg.org.uk or call 020 7312 2483.

Royal Family Portraits

15 July 2012, 15:00
Check signage on day for details
Free

How have royal portraits changed through the centuries? Find out more with historian Alex Rodriguez.

Modern Artists

17 July 2012, 15:00
Check signage on day for details
Free

Artist Alison Kusner looks at how style and technique can be used to show character.

Esther Bruce: A Black London Seamstress

19 July 2012, 13:15-14:00
Ondaatje Wing Theatre
Free

Esther's nephew, historian Stephen Bourne, tells the story of his aunt and the black Britons she was connected to, including Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, Florence Mills and Paul Robeson.

Philosophy Salon

A part of Late Shift
19 July 2012, 19:00
Check signage on day for details
Free
Join the discussion as we delve into philosophical thinking around portraiture, with writer and philosopher Julian Baggini.

Exhibition Tour: Road to 2012

A part of Late Shift
19 July 2012, 19:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free

Discover more about the photographs of the people who are making the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games happen.

Free tour ticket required, available from 17.00 on the day.

Guest DJ

A part of Late Shift
19 July 2012, 18:00-20:45
Check signage on the day for details
Free

Listen and unwind at the Late Shift Bar.

Live Music: Collectres

A part of Late Shift
20 July 2012, 18:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free
The all-female arts collective perform their experimental music combined with strong visual play.

Gallery Talk: A Photographer's Eye

A part of Late Shift
20 July 2012, 19:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free
Road to 2012 photographer Bettina von Zwehl shows the painted portraits which inspire her work.

Drop-In Drawing Session

A part of Late Shift
20 July 2012, 18:30-20:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free
Sketching in the Gallery with artist Marc Woodhead.

Storytelling for Families...and all the animals loved him

21 July 2012, 10:30-11:15
Check signage on day for details
Free

Hear about the weird and wonderful life story of Charles Waterton, a daring adventurer who loved exploring the natural world. He bought amazing exotic species back to his estate in Wakefield, where he set up the first Nature Reserve.

No ticket required. Sessions last approximately 45 minutes. For ages 3+ and their carers.

Portrait of the Day

21 July 2012, 12:00
Check signage on day for details
Free
A talk on a chosen portrait in the Gallery's Collection.

Family Art Workshops

21 July 2012, 11:30-13:00
Check signage on day for details
Free

Explore portraits in the Collection, followed by an art activity.

Free ticket required, available one hour before the event starts on a first come, first served basis. Sessions last approximately 90 minutes. For ages 5+ and their carers.

Storytelling for Families

21 July 2012, 13:30-14:15
Check signage on day for details
Free

Followed by a fun art activity.

No ticket required. Sessions last approximately 45 minutes. For ages 3+ and their carers.

Family Art Workshops...and all the animals loved him

21 July 2012, 14:30-16:00
Check signage on day for details
Free

Hear about the weird and wonderful life story of Charles Waterton, a daring adventurer who loved exploring the natural world. He bought amazing exotic species back to his estate in Wakefield, where he set up the first Nature Reserve.

No ticket required. Sessions last approximately 45 minutes. For ages 3+ and their carers.

BP Portrait Award: Next Generation Taster Session

22 July 2012
Check signage on day for details
Free

Creatively explore portraiture through the BP Portrait Award 2012. For ages 14 – 19.

Booking essential. Email bpnextgeneration@npg.org.uk or call 020 7312 2483.

Beautiful Souls

22 July 2012, 15:00
Check signage on day for details
Free

Historian Sarah Ciacci talks about the intriguing Victorian artistic clique in this current display.

Road to 2012

24 July 2012, 15:00
Check signage on day for details
Free

Join Anne Braybon, Photographs Commissions Manager, for a tour of the Gallery’s largest ever commissioning project.

Visualising Portraits: Clement Atlee

26 July 2012, 14:00
Check signage on day for details
Free
Picture description for visually impaired visitors.

Trade and Transformations

26 July 2012
Check signage on day for details
Free

Site-specific dance pieces in the Tudor Galleries featuring Union Too, Union Dance’s youth group, with choreographer Gerrard Martin.

To book places in advance, please email youthbookings@npg.org.uk or call 020 7312 2483.

Trade and Transformations

26 July 2012
Check signage on day for details
Free

Site-specific dance pieces in the Tudor Galleries featuring Union Too, Union Dance’s youth group, with choreographer Gerrard Martin.

To book places in advance, please email youthbookings@npg.org.uk or call 020 7312 2483.

Gallery Talk: A Photographer's Eye

A part of Late Shift
26 July 2012, 19:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free
Find out how Road to 2012 photographer Brian Griffin's work is influenced by portraits from the past.

With BSL interpretation.

Drop-In Drawing Session

A part of Late Shift
26 July 2012, 18:30-20:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free
Sketching in the Gallery with artist Andy Pankhurst. Start your weekend with a relaxing drawing session in the Gallery. You will spend time looking at portraits, exploring different elements such as technique, composition and line. Drawing from the portraits encourages you to look slowly and carefully at the works, giving you an artist’s perspective. There is a short introduction at 18.30 but feel free to drop in whenever you like. You can stay for 10 minutes or 2 hours. The class is suitable for both beginners and more confident artists. All materials are provided.

Resident DJ: Edward Otchere

A part of Late Shift
26 July 2012, 18:00-20:45
Check signage on the day for details
Free
Presenting a wide selection of great British music.

Live Music: Jason Singh

A part of Late Shift
27 July 2012, 18:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free
Human beatboxer and vocal sculptor Singh performs a special set, fresh from being the first Sound Art Resident at the V&A.

Portrait of the Day

28 July 2012, 12:00
Check signage on day for details
Free
A talk on a chosen portrait in the Gallery's Collection.

Early English Kings

29 July 2012, 15:00
Check signage on day for details
Free

Taking a look at the current display explore these charismatic Kings from Edward II to Henry IV, with historian Alan Read.

Drop-In Drawing

31 July 2012, 15:00
Check signage on day for details
Free

Sketching in the Gallery with artist Emma Middleton.

Suitable for all levels, materials are provided.

Beautiful Souls

2 August 2012, 13:15-14:00
Check signage on day for details
Free

Historian Lucinda Hawksley introduces these high-spirited young things who influenced British culture and society at the end of the 19th Century.

Family Drop-In Workshop

2 August 2012, 13:00-16:00
Check signage on day for details
Free

Join a special drop-in workshop with this year’s BP Portrait Award Family Trail illustrator, Salvatore Rubbino. With BSL interpretation.

No ticket required. Sessions last approximately 45 minutes. For ages 3+ and their carers.

Gallery Talk: Queer Perspectives

A part of Late Shift
2 August 2012, 19:30
Check signage on day for details
Free

Stroll through the Gallery with Queer Perspectives resident artist Sadie Lee and a special guest.

Guest DJ

A part of Late Shift
2 August 2012, 18:00-20:45
Check signage on the day for details
Free

Listen and unwind at the Late Shift Bar.

Live Music: Cevanne

A part of Late Shift
3 August 2012, 18:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free
Armenian-British harpist/singer Cevanne Horrocks-Hopayian, Norwegian cellist/singer Torun Sæter Stavseng and British cellist Gregor Riddell perform original works.

Gallery Talk: Introductory Tour

A part of Late Shift
3 August 2012, 19:30
Check signage on day for details
Free
Highlights in the Collection, the Gallery’s history and top tips for enjoying your visit.

Drop-In Drawing Session

A part of Late Shift
3 August 2012, 18:30-20:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free
Sketching in the Gallery with artist Victoria Turnbull.

Portrait of the Day

4 August 2012, 12:00
Check signage on day for details
Free

A talk on a chosen portrait in the Gallery's Collection.

Highlights of the Collection

5 August 2012, 15:00
Check signage on day for details
Free

With historian Paul Johnson.

Sunday Session: Road to 2012

5 August 2012
Check signage on day for details
Free

Working with professional photographers, create photographic works inspired by the Road to 2012: Aiming High display. For ages 14 – 21.

To book places in advance, please email youthbookings@npg.org.uk or call 020 7312 2483.

Hidden Meanings and Symbolism

7 August 2012, 15:00
Check signage on day for details
Free

Discover how the meanings of objects and symbols in portraits have changed over time, with artist Alison Kusner.

Women of Wisdom & Wiles

9 August 2012, 13:15
Check signage on day for details
Free

Discover the ladies of the Georgian and Regency collections with Peta Taylor.

Gallery Talk: Bad Boys of the Collection

A part of Late Shift
9 August 2012, 19:30
Check signage on day for details
Free
A miscellany of rogues, scoundrels and rascals in the Gallery’s Collection with historian Sarah Ciacci.

Resident DJ: Edward Otchere

A part of Late Shift
9 August 2012, 18:00-20:45
Check signage on the day for details
Free
Vinyl set inspired by The Queen: Art & Image.

Live Music: Catherine Ring & Tim Karp

A part of Late Shift
10 August 2012, 18:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free
Cavaco-player Tim Karp and percussionist Catherine Ring perform Brazilian music anticipating the 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Gallery Talk: Bad Girls of the Collection

A part of Late Shift
10 August 2012, 19:30
Check signage on day for details
Free
Take in an assortment of ‘harlots’ and ‘floozies’, with historian Lucinda Hawksley.

Drop-In Drawing Session

A part of Late Shift
10 August 2012, 18:30-20:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free
Sketching in the Gallery with artist Robin-Lee Hall. Start your weekend with a relaxing drawing session in the Gallery. You will spend time looking at portraits, exploring different elements such as technique, composition and line. Drawing from the portraits encourages you to look slowly and carefully at the works, giving you an artist’s perspective. There is a short introduction at 18.30 but feel free to drop in whenever you like. You can stay for 10 minutes or 2 hours. The class is suitable for both beginners and more confident artists. All materials are provided.

Portrait of the Day

11 August 2012, 12:00
Check signage on day for details
Free

A talk on a chosen portrait in the Gallery's Collection.

Green Fingers

12 August 2012, 15:00
Check signage on day for details
Free

A look at botanists and garden designers in our Collection who have shaped the English garden. With art historian Amanda Gubbins.

Highlights of the Collection

14 August 2012, 15:00
Check signage on day for details
Free

With historian Paul Johnson.

Kathleen Ferrier and her Musical Friends

16 August 2012, 13:15
Ondaatje Wing Theatre
Free

A centenary celebration of the music and life of one of the 20th Century's greatest singers. With Paul Campion, the Immediate Past Master of the Worshipful Company of Musicians.

Exhibition Tour: BP Portrait Award 2012

A part of Late Shift
16 August 2012, 19:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free

Enjoy the highlights from this contemporary portrait exhibition.

Free tour ticket required, available from 17.00 on the day. Timed exhibition ticket must be purchased.

Guest DJ

A part of Late Shift
16 August 2012, 18:00-20:45
Check signage on the day for details
Free

Listen and unwind at the Late Shift Bar.

Live Music: Marielle Way

A part of Late Shift
17 August 2012, 18:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free
Way performs solo flute by the Bach family, inspired by Gallery's portrait of J.C. Bach, interspersed with Telemann Fantasias.

Exhibition Tour: The Queen: Art & Image

A part of Late Shift
17 August 2012, 19:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free

Find out more about this exhibition staged to mark the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. Free tour ticket required, available from 17.00 on the day. Timed exhibition ticket must be purchased.

Part of The Queen: Art and Image exhibition

Free tour ticket required, available from 17.00 on the day. Timed exhibition ticket must be purchased.

Drop-In Drawing Session

A part of Late Shift
17 August 2012, 18:30-20:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free
Sketching in the Gallery with artist Marc Woodhead. Start your weekend with a relaxing drawing session in the Gallery. You will spend time looking at portraits, exploring different elements such as technique, composition and line. Drawing from the portraits encourages you to look slowly and carefully at the works, giving you an artist’s perspective. There is a short introduction at 18.30 but feel free to drop in whenever you like. You can stay for 10 minutes or 2 hours. The class is suitable for both beginners and more confident artists. All materials are provided.

Storytelling for Families

18 August 2012, 10:30
Check signage on day for details
Free

Followed by a fun art activity.

No ticket required. Sessions last approximately 45 minutes. For ages 3+ and their carers.

Family Art Workshops

18 August 2012, 11:30
Check signage on day for details
Free

Explore portraits in the Collection, followed by an art activity.

Free ticket required, available one hour before the event starts on a first come, first served basis. Sessions last approximately 90 minutes. For ages 5+ and their carers.

Portrait of the Day

18 August 2012, 12:00
Check signage on day for details
Free

A talk on a chosen portrait in the Gallery's Collection.

Storytelling for Families

18 August 2012, 13:30
Check signage on day for details
Free

Followed by a fun art activity.

No ticket required. Sessions last approximately 45 minutes. For ages 3+ and their carers.

Family Art Workshops

18 August 2012, 14:30
Check signage on day for details
Free

Explore portraits in the Collection, followed by an art activity.

Free ticket required, available one hour before the event starts on a first come, first served basis. Sessions last approximately 90 minutes. For ages 5+ and their carers.

Self-Portraits

19 August 2012, 15:00
Check signage on day for details
Free

Explore artists’ representations of themselves with historian Sarah Ciacci.

Early English Kings

21 August 2012, 15:00
Check signage on day for details
Free

Taking a look at the current display explore these charismatic Kings from Edward II to Henry IV, with historian Alan Read.

Samuel Coleridge-Taylor

23 August 2012, 13:15
Ondaatje Wing Theatre
Free

On Slavery Remembrance Day celebrate the remarkable life of a composer who rose from humble beginnings to international celebrity. With biographer Charles Elford.

Exhibition Tour: Road to 2012

A part of Late Shift
23 August 2012, 19:00
Check signage on the day for details
Free

After working with the internationally renowned Road to 2012 photographers, photography and fine art students from the University of East London share their insights.

Free tour ticket required, available from 17.00 on the day.

Exhibition Tour: Road to 2012

A part of Late Shift
23 August 2012, 19:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free

After working with the internationally renowned Road to 2012 photographers, photography and fine art students from the University of East London share their insights.

Free tour ticket required, available from 17.00 on the day.

Resident DJ: Edward Otchere

A part of Late Shift
23 August 2012, 18:00-20:45
Check signage on the day for details
Free
Vinyl set inspired by The Queen: Art & Image.

Live Music: Tehillah Collective

A part of Late Shift
24 August 2012, 18:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free
To commemorate Slavery Remembrance Day, the Tehillah Collective present gospel and spiritual songs, using acoustic instruments and vocal arrangements.

Drop-In Drawing Session

A part of Late Shift
24 August 2012, 18:30-20:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free
Sketching in the Gallery with artist Victoria Turnbull. Start your weekend with a relaxing drawing session in the Gallery. You will spend time looking at portraits, exploring different elements such as technique, composition and line. Drawing from the portraits encourages you to look slowly and carefully at the works, giving you an artist’s perspective. There is a short introduction at 18.30 but feel free to drop in whenever you like. You can stay for 10 minutes or 2 hours. The class is suitable for both beginners and more confident artists. All materials are provided.

Portrait of the Day

25 August 2012, 12:00
Check signage on day for details
Free

A talk on a chosen portrait in the Gallery's Collection.

Royal Academicians

26 August 2012, 15:00
Check signage on day for details
Free

Art historian Alan Read looks at the formation of the Royal Academy in 1798.

Drop-in Drawing

28 August 2012, 15:00
Check signage on day for details
Free

Sketching in the Gallery with artist Robin-Lee Hall.

Visualising Portraits: Sir John Fielding

30 August 2012
Check signage on day for details
Free

Picture description for visually impaired visitors.

Gallery Talk: Scandal and Intrigue

A part of Late Shift
30 August 2012, 19:30
Check signage on day for details
Free
Art historian Phillippa Heath reveals the scandalous mistresses of the Regency years. With BSL interpretation.

Guest DJ

A part of Late Shift
30 August 2012, 18:00-20:45
Check signage on the day for details
Free

Listen and unwind at the Late Shift Bar.

Live Music: Anna Pym

A part of Late Shift
31 August 2012, 18:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free
Violinist, Anna Pym and friends play chamber music by Ravel and others.

Exhibition Tour: Road to 2012

A part of Late Shift
31 August 2012, 19:00
Check signage on the day for details
Free

After working with the internationally renowned Road to 2012 photographers, photography and fine art students from the University of East London share their insights.

Free tour ticket required, available from 17.00 on the day.

Exhibition Tour: Road to 2012

A part of Late Shift
31 August 2012, 19:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free

After working with the internationally renowned Road to 2012 photographers, photography and fine art students from the University of East London share their insights.

Free tour ticket required, available from 17.00 on the day.

Drop-In Drawing Session

A part of Late Shift
31 August 2012, 18:30-20:30
Check signage on the day for details
Free
Sketching in the Gallery with artist Robin-Lee Hall. Start your weekend with a relaxing drawing session in the Gallery. You will spend time looking at portraits, exploring different elements such as technique, composition and line. Drawing from the portraits encourages you to look slowly and carefully at the works, giving you an artist’s perspective. There is a short introduction at 18.30 but feel free to drop in whenever you like. You can stay for 10 minutes or 2 hours. The class is suitable for both beginners and more confident artists. All materials are provided.

Photograph of the Month

1 May - 31 May 2012
Room 31
Free

Film director Michael Powell, photographed by Fred Daniels in 1945. The display of this portrait celebrates the publication of The Archers: Powell & Pressburger Portraits /Portrety Fred Daniels by Nigel Arthur and Ewa Reeves.

Sandra Lousada: Work and Performance

28 November 2011 - 9 July 2012
Bookshop Gallery
Free
This display celebrates Sandra Lousada’s fifty-year career as a photographer.

Early English Kings: Medieval Monuments Remade

3 April 2012 - 6 January 2013
Room 1
Free
A selection of electrotype copies of effigies from the tombs of the Plantagenet kings

Double Take: Versions and Copies of Tudor Portraits

26 June - 9 September 2012
Room 2
Free
This display brings together five pairs of near identical portraits in order to explore how and why multiple versions and copies of portraits were made in the sixteenth century.

Queens in Waiting: Charlotte & Victoria

26 November 2011 - 14 October 2012
Room 16
Free
This display traces the idealised nature of the imagery used to represent a young woman in direct line to the throne at a time when the nation tired of the debauched Prince Regent’s rule.

Viceroys of India

23 April - 16 December 2012
Room 23 case display
Free

The Tichborne Trials

23 April - 21 October 2012
Room 24: case display
Free

Olympic Encounters in 1908

29 May 2012 - 25 November 2013
Room 25: case display
Free
Sport and Politics: Photographs by Benjamin Stone of the American Olympic team visiting the House of Commons in July 1908.

Victorian Connections

8 December 2011 - 17 June 2012
Room 26
Free
This display examines four examples of prominent Victorians inspiring or influencing four well-known individuals of today, ranging across different walks of life.

Beautiful Souls

5 December 2011 - 12 August 2012
Room 28
Free
Focusing on portraits of key individuals, this display explores the group’s spiritual affinity with the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood; in particular their support and close friendship with the artist, Edward Burne-Jones.

Samuel Coleridge-Taylor 1875-1912

17 July 2012 - 17 March 2013
Room 29 case display
Free
Voted among 100 Great Black Britons, Samuel Coleridge-Taylor was a composer and conductor whose choral trilogy Hiawatha was popular through to the 1940s. This display marks the centenary of his premature death at 37.

Cavendish Morton: A Man of Many Parts

12 December 2011 - 15 July 2012
Room 29 case display
Free
This display celebrates the work of the photographer, actor and art director Cavendish Morton (1874-1939), a leading artist of the Edwardian period.

Cambridge Connections: Photographs by Antony Barrington Brown

19 March - 16 September 2012
Room 31
Free

Famous in the Fifties: Photographs by Daniel Farson

19 March - 16 September 2012
Room 31
Free

Gertie Millar, Countess of Dudley: From Stage to Society

16 April - 16 December 2012
Room 31: case display
Free

Thomas Struth

15 May 2012 - 20 January 2013
Room 32
Free
Photographs exploring human relationships by the leading German photographer, complementing Struth's new royal portrait featured in The Queen: Art and Image.

Spotlight on Peter Rand

17 April - 16 September 2012
Room 32
Free
This display celebrates the recent acquisition of a group of sixteen photographs by Vogue photographer Peter Rand, and the recent publication of The Day of the Peacock: Style for Men 1963-1973 (2011) which features many of Peter Rand’s fashion photographs.

Imagined Lives: Portraits of Unknown People

3 December 2011 - 8 July 2012
Room 33
Free
This display looks in detail at fourteen portraits, dating from the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, of people whose identities are uncertain.

On Paper: Portraits of Writers

27 June 2012 - 1 February 2013
Room 38a
Free
The display highlights the material common ground of both artist and writer: the sketchpad or notebook upon which the creative process begins.

Poetry of Motion

27 June - 1 November 2012
Rooms 37 and 37a
Free
Poetry of Motion includes some of the most ambitious works from the Contemporary Collection: of athletes and Olympians, dancers and choreographers.

Facing the Music

24 May - 28 August 2012
Barber Institute of Fine Arts, Birmingham
Free
This exhibition comprises nearly thirty portraits of renowned British composers who, collectively, define a great modern tradition.

Comedians: From the 1940s to now

14 July - 16 September 2012
Bodelwyddan Castle
Comedians have always been held high in public affection, with their performances often creating national talking points.

Diallo

29 June - 23 September 2012
International Slavery Museum, Liverpool
The portrait is currently on long term loan to the National Portrait Gallery and will tour to three venues across the UK.

Lucian Freud Portraits

2 July - 28 October 2012
Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, United States
Admission charge will apply

Comedians: From the 1940s to now

29 September 2012 - 13 January 2013
Salford, The Lowry
Comedians have always been held high in public affection, with their performances often creating national talking points.

Diallo

29 September 2012 - 19 January 2013
South Shields Museum and Art Gallery
Free
The portrait is currently on long term loan to the National Portrait Gallery and will tour to three venues across the UK.

Natural Arts: Great Landscape Designers of the 18th Century

10 February 2012 - 30 January 2013
Beningbrough Hall
Free
This display explores the living legacy of these eighteenth-century gardeners.  It brings together their portraits with modern photographs of the gardens where they made their mark and audio commentaries from the National Trust staff, who care for these gardens today.

Diallo

9 February - 12 May 2013
New Walk Art Gallery, Leicester
The portrait is currently on long term loan to the National Portrait Gallery and will tour to three venues across the UK.

Early Kings and Queens

17 March 2012 - 4 November 2013
Montacute House
One of the most important surviving sets of Tudor royal portraits returns to Montacute as a special display.