Portraits have always been more than just a record. They have been used to show the power, importance, virtue, beauty, wealth, taste, learning or other qualities of the sitter. Before the invention of photography, a painted or drawn portrait was the only way to record the appearance of someone, almost always flattering but not always. Led by Minnie Scott, this audio descriptive tour will guide us through some of the most loved portraits in Tate's collection of art, revealing both the sitter and artist.
The talk will take place seated in the gallery with trained picture describers giving a detailed and fascinating description of the photographs and display. Sighted companions and guide dogs are welcome. Please join us in the Manton Studio for tea and coffee from 10.30 before the tour.
If you have any other access needs that you would like to let us know about please contact: Anna Murray, Assistant Curator: Access anna.murray@tate.org.uk or call +44 (0)20 7887 8888.