About the Open Call

NPG LAB is a 10-month creative programme for young people aged 16–21, designed to explore creative industries, build new skills, and foster collaboration with artists and other young creatives at the National Portrait Gallery. Participants will engage in hands-on projects, including planning and promoting events, creating resources, and responding creatively to the Gallery's Collection. A major focus is co-planning and co-hosting a large Youth 'Late' event in Autumn 2026, which will feature live music, performances, film screenings, artist talks, workshops, and more for up to 1000 young people. The program includes welcome sessions, pop-up event planning for exhibitions like 'Catherine Opie: To Be Seen', a 'Creative Futures' career advice event, and planning for 'Tim Walker’s Fairyland: Love and Legends'. Regular fortnightly planning sessions will be held from September to November, leading up to the Youth Late on November 16, 2026. The program concludes with a debrief and celebration in December.

What is Offered

Participants will receive a £600 bursary, paid in two instalments, to cover time, travel, food, and other expenses. They will have collaborative opportunities to work alongside various Gallery teams (exhibitions, communications, visitor experience, events, public programming) and with external artists and creative professionals. Benefits also include complimentary exhibition tickets during sessions, a LAB programme pack with art materials and Gallery merchandise, and free snacks and drinks at all sessions. After the programme, graduates join the NPG LOOP creative community network for ongoing connection, industry talks, exhibition tours, social events, and discounts.

Requirements

Applicants must be aged 16–21 when applications close on Monday, January 26, 2026. Ideal candidates are curious about the world, excited to share ideas, team players who enjoy collaborating, interested in behind-the-scenes gallery operations, open to making new friends and building networks, and eager to learn about art and history. They should be looking to develop skills in events management, research, communications, and marketing, boost confidence, and learn about creative career pathways. Applicants must be ready to bring energy and commitment throughout the 2026 programme, which requires attending regular in-person sessions at the Gallery in London. While not required to be London-based, applicants must be able to travel to London for sessions. The program especially welcomes applications from young people who have never worked with a gallery or museum before, and 50% of places are reserved for individuals who identify as disabled, neurodiverse, working-class, care-experienced, young carers, and/or are part of the global majority. Applications are also welcomed from those not currently in education or employment.

How to Apply

To apply, fill out the online form available at the bottom of the program page. Applicants are encouraged to prepare their answers offline before submitting. For alternative application methods, such as voice recording or video, contact youthbookings@npg.org.uk. The application should clearly explain the applicant's interest in the opportunity, what they hope to gain or learn, and what unique perspective they would bring, keeping answers to 300 words or less for each point. A shortlist of applicants will be invited to a relaxed, informal in-person group interview day on Friday, February 27, 2026, which includes group discussions and problem-solving exercises.