Catherine Opie's First Major UK Museum Exhibition Opens at National Portrait Gallery

From 5 March to 31 May, the National Portrait Gallery in London will showcase "Catherine Opie: To Be Seen," marking the photographer's first significant exhibition in a UK museum. This display features over 80 images spanning three decades, including the influential series "Being and Having" (1991), which interrogates themes of gender and sexuality. Curated in collaboration with Opie, the exhibition incorporates interventions within seven permanent galleries, prompting discussions on historical importance. The layout, designed by architect Katy Barkan, connects three rooms. Opie's diverse work—encompassing photography, film, collage, and ceramics—explores cultural identity. Clare Freestone emphasizes Opie's dedication to her community, while the exhibition also addresses larger projects like Los Angeles freeway systems and political events, showcasing the enduring significance of portraiture beyond celebrity.