Charli XCX ‘Brat’-era portrait displayed at London’s National Portrait Gallery

In a significant cultural acknowledgment, a portrait of Charli XCX from the period surrounding her 2024 album 'Brat' has been installed at London’s National Portrait Gallery. This addition, part of the gallery’s History Makers Now section, underscores the artist’s impact as a prominent figure in contemporary music and culture.

The featured photograph, captured by acclaimed photographer Harley Weir, presents Charli XCX in a candid, minimalistic pose. The image, taken in 2024, shows her clad in a white crop top paired with unbuttoned black jeans, embodying the edgy and rebellious aesthetic associated with the ‘Brat’ era. The portrait was a central visual element during the promotional campaign for the album, which was released in June 2024 through Atlantic Records.

The National Portrait Gallery’s decision to include this image reflects its recognition of Charli XCX as a key influencer among her generation. Senior curator Brandei Estes highlighted the distinctive style of Harley Weir’s photography, which melds intimacy with a strong visual presence, capturing the essence of the artist’s persona and the cultural moment she represents.

The ‘Brat’ album itself marked a milestone in Charli XCX’s career, gaining critical acclaim and contributing to her status as a leading figure in pop and experimental music scenes. Complementing the portrait’s unveiling, the album’s artwork, designed by Brent David Freaney, recently earned the 2025 Grammy Award for Best Recording Package. Freaney shared insights into the creative process behind the album’s striking green-themed design during a recent keynote address.

Beyond 'Brat,' Charli XCX has continued to expand her artistic output. Her subsequent release, 'Music, Fashion, Film,' features collaborations with notable producers such as A.G. Cook. The album includes the single 'Rock Music,' accompanied by a music video directed by Aidan Zamiri, further illustrating her multidisciplinary approach to music and visual arts.

Looking ahead, Charli is preparing to embark on a US tour starting in September to promote 'Music, Fashion, Film.' Notably, she has committed to donating a portion of the tour proceeds to the Transgender Law Center, aligning her music career with advocacy and social responsibility.

The portrait’s exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery is located on the ground floor, inviting visitors to engage with a contemporary icon whose work resonates beyond music into broader cultural dialogues. While the portrait encapsulates a specific era of Charli XCX’s trajectory, it also symbolizes her evolving influence and enduring relevance.

This development not only cements Charli XCX’s position within the artistic canon but also reflects a growing acknowledgment of pop musicians as vital contributors to cultural history. As the lines between music, fashion, and visual art continue to blur, the inclusion of such works in prestigious institutions marks an important step towards recognizing contemporary creative expression.

Details surrounding the gallery’s long-term plans for this portrait or additional works featuring Charli XCX remain limited. However, this acquisition serves as a testament to her dynamic presence and the National Portrait Gallery’s commitment to documenting influential figures shaping today’s cultural landscape.