Add your selfie to this new London exhibition raising mental health awareness

Join the likes of Joanna Lumley, Alex Scott and Blu Hydrangea in this important project from cultural initiative Art of London, in partnership with Take A Moment
Will Ireland/PinPep
25 August 2023

Hundreds of celebrities are featured in the latest installation from the award-winning cultural initiative Art of London.

More than 300 stars – including Brian Cox, Hannah Waddingham and Idris Elba – have been photographed by Ray Burmiston, pictured above, for Art of London Presents Take A Moment 2023: a moving project which reminds visitors to the West End to take time to look after their mental health.

The portraits, in which each subject has their eyes closed, are on display at the National Portrait Gallery from 14 September and can also be spotted on the Piccadilly Lights, one of London’s most iconic fixtures. It’s the latest in a series of exciting events around the capital, including the Art of London Wellness Zone, which will host Yoga, art sessions, mindful breathing classes and photography workshops in Leicester Square on 30-31 August.

Take A Moment 2023: discover a collection of celebrity portraits

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“It’s so important for our mental health to take a moment and this campaign serves as a powerful reminder to find the time to breathe, reconnect and regain a sense of clarity,” says Stephen Fry, whose portrait has featured in the project in previous years. “I’m delighted to have been part of the genesis of the project and to have seen it evolve into something much bigger, offering space to people to reconnect. It’s one of life’s most pleasant contradictions – when we close our eyes we can see so much more.”

This year, for the first time, the public can submit their own portraits to be included. It’s easy to get involved: simply upload your photo at takeamoment.uk and you could feature alongside a host of your favourite actors, musicians and sportspeople in the installation’s poignant finale, where thousands of supporters will be screened in the National Portrait Gallery.

First launched as a virtual exhibition back in 2020, Take A Moment was originally created as a dynamic, digital space where people could share their eyes-closed selfies alongside a collection of portraits by Ray Burmiston.

Now on the streets of London and displayed in one of the capital’s most beloved artistic institutions, the important message is set to reach even more people.

To find out more visit takeamoment.uk and to learn more about Art of London, visit artoflondon.co.uk