We take photos all the time, but sitting for a portrait artist is generally, as Bill Bailey says, confined to “the great and the good”.
“Historically, portraiture is usually blokes, let’s face it. Often sitting on a horse, self important, looking down on everyone,” says Bill. “It’s a symbol of wealth and power. This show democratizes that and celebrates people from all walks of life – telling their stories in the process.”
The first Loading Bay event is Extraordinary Portraits, a partnership between Bradford 2025, the BBC and Chatterbox Media. Comedian, musician, actor, artist and TV presenter Bill Bailey launched the exhibition this week, joining sitters and artists whose work is showcased in the new gallery.











