Deaf history made as National Portrait Gallery acquires three photographs by Stephen Iliffe
Deaf history was made when the National Portrait Gallery acquired three photographs by Stephen Iliffe for their Permanent Collection.
It is thought to be the first time that a deaf photographer's portraits of deaf sitters has been acquired by any of the UK’s top ten art museums and galleries.
“I’m truly delighted as the deaf community is one of the most under-represented demographics in the arts world,” says Stephen.
The portraits feature Paddy Ladd, Raymond Antrobus and Sarah Adedeji.
“As a radical thinker and activist, Paddy has inspired generations of deaf people to take pride in their deaf identity, culture and sign language,” says Stephen.
“As one of Britain’s leading poets, Raymond is showing how signs are the equal of written and spoken words.
“As an audiologist, dancer, author and content creator, Sarah is part of a new wave of young deaf people who are pushing the boundaries further.
"Their portraits are now visible here on the gallery's online catalogue.”
“I love the idea that future generations of visitors to this world-famous collection will now have access to these portraits for research and enjoyment.
“The National Portrait Gallery tells our nation’s story, and deaf people are very much a part of this story.”
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With thanks to Clare Freestone, Curator, Photography at National Portrait Gallery, for your interest in our deaf heritage and for leading the acquisitions process.
And, thanks also to my regular printers - Bayeux - for making such beautiful prints to their usual immaculate standards.
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