Queen ‘inspired’ by Kate’s photographic lockdown project

The Queen has said she was “inspired” by the results of a photographic lockdown project led by the Duchess of Cambridge.

Kate (pictured) and a panel of judges selected 100 images from more than 31,000 entrie s for the Hold Still digital exhibition, which launched with the National Portrait Gallery in May.

The Duchess of Cambridgeplaceholder image
The Duchess of Cambridge

People of all ages across the UK were invited to submit a photo which they had taken during lockdown, and in the six weeks that the project was open 31,598 images were submitted.

As the exhibition went live today, the Queen said: “It was with great pleasure that I had the opportunity to look through a number of the portraits that made the final 100 images for the Hold Still photography project.

“The Duchess of Cambridge and I were inspired to see how the photographs have captured the resilience of the British people at such a challenging time, whether that is through celebrating frontline workers, recognising community spirit or showing the efforts of individuals supporting those in need.

“The Duchess of Cambridge and I send our best wishes and congratulations to all those who submitted a portrait to the project.”

Among the images shared with the Queen were The Look Of Lockdown by Carlotta Cutrupi, which evokes feelings of isolation, and Everyday Hero – Richard by Arnhel de Serra, which celebrates the work of a Royal Mail worker.

The digital exhibition can be viewed at npg.org.uk/holdstill

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