The National Portrait Gallery has unveiled a never-before-seen, full-length portrait of renowned human rights campaigner Peter Tatchell, now on display in the Gallery’s ground-floor ‘History Makers’ exhibit. This significant acquisition coincides with Tatchell’s 70th birthday, celebrated on January 25, 2022, and marks the first painted portrait of Tatchell to enter the Gallery’s prestigious Collection. The picture was created by artist Sarah Jane Moon, known for her vibrant and gestural style, making it her first work to be included in the Gallery.
The near-life-size portrait captures Tatchell’s indomitable spirit and leadership across nearly six decades of activism. The painting features a rainbow tie, symbolising Tatchell’s extensive work and achievements in LGBTQ+ rights. Moon’s depiction pays tribute to Tatchell’s relentless dedication to human rights, blending bold and joyful elements that echo the essence of his campaigning.
Tatchell admired Moon’s work, stating, “I love the vibrant colours of Sarah-Jane’s portrait. She’s done the painting in a bold and joyful style, perfectly reflecting my campaigning spirit. I’m honoured to have my portrait in the NPG alongside many illustrious public figures, past and present. I’m not sure I deserve it, but after nearly 60 years of LGBT+ and human rights advocacy, someone there is smiling at me.”
Artist Sarah Jane Moon also shared her sentiments, saying, “It has been a real honour to paint Peter and convey something of the respect and admiration I have for his lifelong commitment to LGBTQ+ rights and his wider environmental and human rights work. I am very conscious that because of his unwavering commitment to equality, I and many other younger LGBTQ+ people enjoy greater freedoms, and his focus and selflessness constantly inspire me.”
The National Portrait Gallery’s Senior Curator of Contemporary Collections emphasised the importance of the new acquisition, stating, “Since reopening last year, the National Portrait Gallery has worked hard to ensure that our new displays better reflect the diversity of the UK. Continuing this important emphasis, I’m delighted that this portrait of Peter Tatchell, one of the most influential campaigners living today, by Sarah Jane Moon, is going on display – alongside many more of the UK’s important ‘History Makers’.”
Originally from Australia, Peter Tatchell moved to London in 1971 and quickly became a pivotal figure in the fight for LGBTQ+ and human rights. He co-organised Britain’s first Pride March in 1972, co-founded the AIDS activist group ACT UP London in 1989, and was a founding member of the direct action organisation OutRage! in 1990. Tatchell currently serves as the Director of the Peter Tatchell Foundation, which advocates for global human rights and freedoms.
Sarah Jane Moon, a New Zealand-born British painter, lives and works in London and Sussex. Her work frequently explores queer identity and gender performance, characterised by energetic, heavy impasto, and vibrant colours. Moon has previously exhibited at the National Portrait Gallery’s Portrait Award in 2019 and 2020, with her portrait of Tatchell now becoming a notable addition to the Gallery’s Collection.
Peter Tatchell, born on January 25, 1952, in Melbourne, Australia, is a renowned British human rights campaigner and LGBTQ+ activist. Tatchell’s journey into activism began during his school years when he protested against the Vietnam War and advocated for the rights of Aboriginal Australians. 1971 he moved to London, igniting his passion for social justice.
Tatchell became a prominent figure in the Gay Liberation Front (GLF), a radical group advocating for the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals. His involvement in the GLF was a precursor to his lifelong commitment to fighting for equality and challenging societal norms. In 1983, Tatchell gained national attention as the Labour Party candidate in a by-election for Bermondsey. Despite facing a homophobic smear campaign, his courage and determination left an indelible mark on British politics.
In 1990, Tatchell co-founded the direct action group OutRage!, which aimed to confront and challenge homophobia through high-profile protests and campaigns. One of the group’s most notable actions was attempting a citizen’s arrest of Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe in 1999 and 2001 for human rights abuses. Although Tatchell faced physical assault and legal repercussions, his actions drew global attention to Mugabe’s regime.
Tatchell has been a vocal critic of oppressive regimes and human rights violations worldwide throughout his career. His activism extends beyond LGBTQ+ rights to encompass broader human rights issues, including opposition to the death penalty, support for democracy, and advocacy for freedom of speech.
Tatchell’s contributions have been recognised with numerous awards, including the Gandhi International Peace Award in 2016 and an honorary fellowship from Goldsmiths, University of London, in 2019. Despite facing multiple challenges and personal risks, Tatchell remains a steadfast advocate for justice and equality, inspiring generations of activists to fight for a fairer, more inclusive world. His work continues to testify to the power of grassroots activism and the enduring struggle for human rights.