(Crewe, 30 April 2026) Bentley Motors and the Bentley Foundation have announced a new partnership with the National Portrait Gallery, marking the Foundation’s second philanthropic collaboration following its launch with The Queen’s Reading Room. This initiative reinforces a long-term commitment to expanding access to culture, creativity, and education for future generations across the UK. +1
Empowering the Next Generation: Photo Portrait Now
Through this partnership, the Bentley Foundation is supporting Photo Portrait Now, a flagship higher-education programme led by the National Portrait Gallery in collaboration with six universities across England and Wales.
The programme focuses on:
- Expanding Access: Increasing opportunities in the photographic arts for under-represented groups.
- Professional Development: Now in its third year, the initiative provides students with expert mentoring, peer networks, and workshops led by Gallery curators and professional photographers.
- Creative Response: Students are invited to produce original portrait photography responding to the themes of the 2025 Taylor Wessing Portrait Prize.
The Grand Finale: Exhibition and Symposium
The initiative culminates in an annual public exhibition of student works at the National Portrait Gallery. Alongside the display, a symposium celebration brings together students and industry professionals for:
- Career Insights: Professional photography talks and portfolio reviews.
- Skills Workshops: Career development sessions and curatorial tours led by National Portrait Gallery specialists.
Executive Perspectives
“At the Bentley Foundation, we believe access to culture and creativity should never be defined by background or circumstance,” said Wayne Bruce, Head of The Bentley Foundation. “Partnering with the National Portrait Gallery allows us to support emerging talent and help open meaningful pathways into the creative industries”.+1
Liz Smith, Director of Learning at the National Portrait Gallery, added: “The Gallery is grateful for the generous support of The Bentley Foundation, which allowed us to continue working with the next generation of photographic talent toward success in their future creative careers”.
Notes to Editors
The Bentley Foundation
The Foundation is the charitable arm of Bentley Motors, focused on environmental work and widening access to education, arts, and culture. It is anchored in the company’s Beyond100+ strategy to deliver long-term philanthropic impact. +1
The National Portrait Gallery
Founded in 1856, the Gallery tells the story of Britain through its collection of portraits, promoting engagement with the medium through conservation and public sharing.
Bentley Motors
Based in Crewe, England, and owned by the Volkswagen Group, Bentley remains the definitive British luxury car company, handcrafting models including the Continental GT, Flying Spur, and Bentayga.
Media Contacts:
- Angus Fitton, Chief Communications Officer: [email protected]
- Max Harris-Jones, Sustainability & Community Communications Manager: [email protected]
