Helen Richardson-Walsh (née Richardson) and Kate Richardson-Walsh (née Walsh), 30 August 2016

C-type colour print, 268 x 485 mm.

National Portrait Gallery, London. Purchased, 2016 (NPG x199687).
© Graham Hughes.

Source: npg.org.uk

This compelling image of a modern relationship is testament to the continuing relevance of the double portrait in visual culture today. Graham Hughes’ portrait of Helen and Kate Richardson-Walsh was made in a new climate of acceptance of same-sex relationships. Helen Richardson and Kate Walsh married in a civil ceremony in 2013. Both play hockey for Team Great Britain, and at the 2016 Rio Olympics they became the first married couple to win Olympic gold for Britain together since 1920. Hughes’ photograph was taken just days after their Olympic victory. The couple’s similar clothing and the intimacy of their clasped hands conveys a deep partnership.