A striking portrait capturing an intimate moment between a mother and daughter in a London garden has been selected for the prestigious 2026 Taylor Wessing Photo Portrait Prize. The image, titled ‘Lois and Carey in the Garden’, is the work of London-based photography duo Fotómetro, comprised of Rona Bar and Ofek Avshalom.
The photograph features Jewish artists Lois Ward-Marvin and her mother, Carey Marvin. It forms part of an ongoing series titled ‘Lois & Carey’, which explores intergenerational bonds and non-traditional identity within a domestic UK context. The photographers, who moved to London from Israel in 2022, have gained national recognition for their ability to document the ‘unspoken’ closeness between their subjects.
The selection for the National Portrait Gallery’s annual prize follows a period of increasing acclaim for the duo. The series has now culminated in a dedicated photobook. Published by 89Books in 2026, the ‘Lois & Carey’ volume provides a deeper look at the duo’s collaborative process with the Marvin family.
Exhibition and future projects
The Taylor Wessing Photo Portrait Prize exhibition is scheduled to open at the National Portrait Gallery in London in November 2026. It remains one of the most significant showcases for contemporary portrait photography in the world, often highlighting works that challenge traditional perceptions of the genre.
Beyond the static image, Bar and Avshalom are currently developing two separate film projects focusing on Lois and Carey. These films are expected to expand on the themes of the ‘Lois & Carey’ series, providing a moving-image counterpart to their still photography. Their work often intersects with themes of heritage and modern storytelling; further context on their exploration of Jewish narratives and identity can be found through specialist arts coverage.
The subjects themselves remain active in the London arts scene. Lois Ward-Marvin and Carey Marvin maintain professional artistic profiles, with their own work often touching upon themes of performance and self-expression. The photographers have noted that the project is as much a collaboration with the Marvins as it is a documentation of them, reflecting a partnership that began shortly after the duo established their studio in the capital.
Visitors to the National Portrait Gallery later this year will be able to view the selected portrait alongside other shortlisted works. Exact opening dates and ticket information for the exhibition are expected to be confirmed by the gallery closer to the November launch.
