Es Devlin's interactive digital portrait of UK launches at National Portrait Gallery
The National Portrait Gallery (NPG) has unveiled 'A National Portrait for the National Portrait Gallery,' a dynamic digital artwork by artist Es Devlin, created in partnership with the public in the UK. This initiative will be featured in the NPG's History Makers gallery from 14 May to 27 October 2026. Individuals can contribute by uploading a facial image through a specialized Google Arts & Culture platform, which then transforms the photo into an animated digital portrait inspired by Devlin's charcoal and chalk techniques. Each submission becomes part of the collective display at the NPG, and participants will also receive a personalized digital version of their portrait.
Key facts
- The NPG announced 'A National Portrait for the National Portrait Gallery'.
- It is an evolving digital artwork by Es Devlin.
- The project is created in collaboration with the UK public.
- It will be on display in the NPG's History Makers gallery.
- The exhibition runs from 14 May to 27 October 2026.
- Participants upload a facial photograph via a dedicated Google Arts & Culture site.
- The tool uses a style directed on Devlin's previous charcoal and chalk drawings.
- Each participant can download a unique digital edition of their portrait.
Entities
Artists
- Es Devlin
Institutions
- National Portrait Gallery
- Google Arts & Culture
Locations
- United Kingdom