From Ncuti Gatwa to Queen Elizabeth II, a range of British icons are showcased in an innovative immersive exhibition highlighting the collection of the National Portrait Gallery (NPG). This exhibition marks the first time a national art collection has been utilized in such a way, combining digital portraits with animated graphics and voiceovers to bring the stories of 19 celebrities and historical figures to life. This new approach reflects a growing trend in immersive art shows, where large-scale projected visuals fill the gallery walls, providing a unique and engaging experience for visitors.
The exhibition, titled “Stories Brought To Life,” opens in Salford before embarking on a tour across the UK. While admittance to view the original portraits at the NPG in London is free, entrance to the exhibition costs up to £35. NPG director Victoria Siddall emphasized the importance of reaching new audiences outside of London and generating revenue to ensure the sustainability of museums. By combining traditional portraits with animated elements, music, and narration, the exhibition offers a fresh perspective on well-known personalities and historical figures.
The immersive experience, located at a pop-up venue in MediaCity Salford, features about 40 giant picture frame-style boxes projected with portraits and animations. Visitors can enjoy a 45-minute journey through history, listening to narratives from figures such as Malala Yousafzai, Churchill, and Audrey Hepburn. Some of these personalities share their stories in their own words, while actors provide narration for others, like William Shakespeare and Emmeline Pankhurst. The exhibition culminates with Queen Elizabeth II, offering a comprehensive overview of selected slices of British history.
While standard adult tickets range from £22 to £30, with flexible and affordable options available, the price of admission could be prohibitive for some individuals. Despite this, the immersive experience offers a thought-provoking and engaging way to reexamine the lives and contributions of influential figures, providing a deeper connection to the historical narratives presented. In a similar vein, LS Lowry’s iconic matchstick men will be brought to life in a separate immersive show at the Lowry arts centre in Salford, further showcasing the growing popularity of immersive art experiences
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