ORIGINS

The People’s Portrait Collection was mounted in 2000 as a millenial exhibition. The idea was to represent ordinary people from all walks of life, and thereby offer a picture of the United Kingdom as it moved from the 20th century into the 21st.

THE COLLECTION

The resulting collection, owned by the Society, is rich in the diversity of its subjects. Each year a portrait is donated to the collection, usually by a newly elected member. In some instances, members generously paint a portrait specifically for the People’s Portraits. Released from the ‘brief’ of a commission, the artists often choose sitters that they have long wanted to paint. This adds to the unique quality of the collection.

ANNUAL UNVEILING

As each year progresses the collection becomes increasingly popular, with each September unveiling accompanied by a talk from an eminent speaker. Past speakers have included historian David Starkey and art critic Martin Gayford.

See the Girton site and its School Activity Pack

PDF Map and directions to Girton College, Cambridge

See a review of People’s Portraits by the Independent

VIEW THE COLLECTION

A Selection of Portraits from the People’s Portrait Collection