Art exhibitions to see at the National Portrait Gallery in 2025
The National Portrait Gallery in London will host a series of exceptional exhibitions in 2025, showcasing a range of renowned artists and photographers. From iconic portraits by Edvard Munch to the vibrant fashion imagery of The Face magazine, these exhibitions will explore themes of identity, creativity, and culture. Here is a preview of the exciting exhibitions you can look forward to in the coming year.
Kate Moss by Glen Luchford, March 1993 © Glen Luchford. Styling Venetia Scott.
The Face Magazine: Culture Shift
This exhibition celebrates The Face magazine’s role in defining youth culture from the 1980s to 2004, with over 200 iconic photographs from renowned photographers like Sheila Rock and David Sims. It offers a visual journey into fashion, music, and style.
Date: 13 February 2025 – 1 June 2025. Price: £23 / 25.50 with donation. Free for members. npg.org.uk.
Käte and Hugo Perls, 1913 by Edvard Munch © Foto Munchmuseet / Ove Kvavik.
Edvard Munch Portraits
For the first time in the UK, this exhibition focuses on Edvard Munch’s portraiture, revealing intimate and personal depictions of family, friends, and himself, alongside his emotional portrayal of the human condition.
Date: 12 March 2025 – 15 June 2025. Price: £21 / 23.50 with donation. Free for members. npg.org.uk.
Drift by Jenny Saville, 2020-2022 © Jenny Saville, Courtesy Gagosian.
Jenny Saville: The Anatomy of Painting
This major retrospective of contemporary artist Jenny Saville will explore her powerful and large-scale paintings that examine the human body and identity through innovative techniques and compelling visuals.
Date: 25 June 2025 – 28 September 2025. Price: TBC. npg.org.uk.
Herbert Smith Freehills Portrait Award
The National Portrait Gallery’s annual exhibition celebrates contemporary portraiture, featuring the best works from the prestigious portrait competition. It highlights the diversity and creativity of today’s artists.
Date: 30 June 2025 – 28 September 2025. Price: Free. npg.org.uk.
The Second Age of Beauty by Cecil Beaton, British Vogue February 1946 © The Condé Nast Publications Ltd. Condé Nast Archive London.
Cecil Beaton’s Fashionable World
This exhibition will delve into the glamorous world of Cecil Beaton, highlighting his influential fashion photography and costume design, and offering insights into the opulent world of mid-20th-century high society.
Date: 1 October 2025 – 15 December 2025. Price: TBC. npg.org.uk.
Taylor Wessing Photo Portrait Prize
The prestigious Taylor Wessing Photo Portrait Prize will showcase the best in contemporary portrait photography, celebrating both the established and emerging talent from around the world.
Date: 1 November 2025 – 21 December 2025. Price: TBC. npg.org.uk.
Visit npg.org.uk to discover more about their exciting 2025 programme.
Thumbnail image: Girls on Bikes (Sarf Coastin’), by Elaine Constantine, styled by Polly Banks, December 1997, © Elaine Constantine.
