In London, The National Portrait Gallery Brought Back Its Annual Gala

At London’s National Portrait Gallery, gallery director Nicholas Cullinan, along with co-chairs Edward Enninful OBE and Malala Yousafzai, hosted its annual Portrait Gala with an affair packed with a constellation of luminaries across the worlds of art, fashion, and philanthropy—celebrating the gala’s grand return since the Gallery’s reopening in the summer of 2023.

After attendees settled into their seats, dinner service commenced. While conversations bounced between the portrait-adorned walls of the Gallery, a silent auction took place, offering guests the chance to bid on a few fashionable treasures (including a private tour of Coco Chanel’s apartment on Rue Cambon, front row seats to the Erdem Spring/Summer presentation, and so much more). All funds raised from the Portrait Gala are dedicated to supporting several of the Gallery’s vital works, fostering accessibility, education, and innovation within the arts community.

As the evening transitioned into the after-party, which was sponsored by none other than skincare stalwart Augustinus Bader (who also hosted two tables that evening) and led by CEO Charles Rosier together with Sophie Goodwin, the festivities continued unabated. DJ sets courtesy of Hale Zero and a captivating performance by Courtney Love brought guests, including Tracey Emin, Alexa Chung, Bella Freud, Princess Olympia of Greece, and more onto the dance floor up until the stroke of midnight.

Guests didn’t leave the Gallery empty-handed; luxury tokens from Augustinus Bader’s cult-favorite products, such as the brand’s eye patches and Rich Cream, were handed to each attendee. Of course, Cullinan, on the cusp of his investiture ceremony at Buckingham Palace, bid each guest a gracious farewell as the night came to a close.