Paul Benney

Well-known for his portaits, especially the Coronation State Portrait of Queen Camilla unveiled at the National Gallery on 6 May 2025, Paul Benney’s personal work is a world apart from his commissions. His paintings evoke a mystical atmosphere that explores spiritual, existential, and psychological themes. His darkly luminous portraits and allegorical tableaux often bridge sacred and profane iconography, imbuing his subjects with a sense of otherworldly presence. A former resident artist at Somerset House, Benney’s work has been exhibited at the Venice Biennale and is held in major collections such as the National Portrait Gallery and Parliament.