Charli XCX photo purchased by National Portrait Gallery
The National Portrait Gallery has acquired a 2024 portrait of pop star Charli XCX by photographer Harley Weir. The image, which highlights the singer's cultural impact following her 'Brat' album, will be displayed in the gallery's 'History Makers Now' space.
Why it matters
This acquisition signals the institutional recognition of contemporary pop culture figures as significant historical subjects.
Image source, Harley Weir / National Portrait Gallery Image caption, The portrait goes on display from today
Music correspondent Published 30 minutes ago A portrait of the pop star Charli XCX has been added to the National Portrait Gallery's collection - the same week she is aiming for her second number one album of the year.
The picture, which shows the singer leaning against a wall in a white crop top and unbuttoned black jeans, was taken in 2024 by British photographer Harley Weir.
It became one of the key images in the promotion of her Brat album, matching the the music's debauched swagger and emotional candour.
Announcing the acquisition, the National Portrait Gallery called Charli "one of the defining artists of our time".
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