Work by USW Documentary Photography students goes on display at National Portrait Gallery

Documentary Photography students at the University of South Wales have their work on show at the National Portrait Gallery this summer, thanks to a collaborative project to mentor the next generation of photographers.

USW is one of just six UK universities to take part in Photo Portrait Now – a national higher education programme that supports students to work with the Gallery and professional photographers, through study days, practical workshops and networking, creating a new exhibition which is on display until 28 September 2025.

The exhibition features portraits that challenge concepts of place, community, relationships and belonging, showcasing a wealth of new stories that delve into life in Britain today. Its recent launch event at the Gallery saw participating students enjoy workshops and talks led by professional photographers and industry leaders.

Grace Barrett, who is a second year BA Documentary Photography student at USW, has her work on display at the exhibition. She said: “Taking part in Photo Portrait Now has been an amazing opportunity. I was asked to present my work, Let the Land Talk to the Sea, as part of a panel at the National Portrait Gallery, and I have been able to show my work to industry professionals, including picture editors and curators, who have offered advice on how to take this project to the next level.”

Karin Bareman, lecturer in Documentary Photography at USW. said: “Photo Portrait Now provides an amazing opportunity for our second-year students to meet with National Portrait Gallery curators, picture editors, and other industry professionals, often leading to individual mentorship, connections, and countless other opportunities. Our students’ work is now on show at the Gallery for the duration of the summer, gaining unprecedented exposure of their projects while still at university.” 

Clare Freestone, Curator of Photography at the National Portrait Gallery, added: “It’s been a pleasure to work so closely with staff and students from the University of South Wales as part of Photo Portrait Now, and I’ve been incredibly impressed by the professionalism shown by all of the participating students over the year.

“Inspiring the next generation of world-class photographers, Photo Portrait Now has provided opportunities for talented groups of young people to exhibit at the National Portrait Gallery, network and connect with industry leaders, supporting their pursuit of creative careers.”