The Portrait of Mai by Joshua Reynolds Begins Its National Tour
A landmark painting valued at £50 million, Portrait of Mai by Sir Joshua Reynolds, is now on public display in Bradford. Cartwright Hall in Manningham is hosting the artwork, which many experts consider Reynolds’ finest. The painting features Mai, the first known Polynesian to visit Britain. It marks a culturally significant moment in British art history. The portrait also represents an important symbol of global cultural exchange.
This exhibit represents a momentous milestone for both the city of Bradford and the wider UK art community. The portrait carries immense value—not just in money, but in history. It captures the life and legacy of a man who bridged wide cultural divides in the 18th century.
Mai and His Journey: The Man Behind Reynolds’ Iconic Portrait
Mai, also known as Omai, hailed from Raiatea, an island now incorporated into modern-day French Polynesia. His journey to Britain began as part of Captain James Cook’s second voyage, and upon arriving in England in 1774, he quickly became a sensation. Welcomed by the aristocracy and scholars, Mai was a source of fascination to the British elite. His intelligence, charisma, and background offered a novel lens through which Enlightenment-era Britain viewed the wider world.
Celebrated in London and Immortalised in Paint
While in London, Mai met many influential figures, and Sir Joshua Reynolds, then president of the Royal Academy, painted his portrait. Reynolds, known for his grand style and ability to capture the character of his subjects, painted Mai with dignity and elegance. This portrait went on to become one of Reynolds’ most iconic creations, symbolising Britain’s early encounters with other cultures.
Saved for the Nation: A Historic Acquisition
The National Portrait Gallery officially saved the Portrait of Mai for the nation in 2023 through a historic acquisition effort. The gallery hailed it as the most important acquisition in its history. The painting’s significance lies not only in its artistic merit but also in its representation of colonial and cultural history. Galleries in the UK and the US will now share the painting, ensuring this powerful image reaches diverse audiences.
Joshua Reynolds Portrait on Show in Bradford
For the first time since its preservation, this masterpiece is embarking on a national tour, beginning in Bradford during the city’s year as UK City of Culture 2025. It will remain on display at Cartwright Hall until 17 August before continuing its journey to Cambridge, Plymouth, and ultimately the J. Paul Getty Museum in Los Angeles in 2026.
A Youth-Led Cultural Celebration
To honour the arrival of the painting, a series of community engagement initiatives has been organised. An innovative programme, Journeys with Mai, has been co-created with local youth from Bradford 2025 and the Common/Wealth theatre company. These young contributors are helping shape the narrative and cultural discussions surrounding the painting.
Key upcoming events include a youth-led summit on 9 August and a special late-night museum opening on 14 August. These interactive events are designed to encourage dialogue, cultural exploration, and educational enrichment, focusing on Mai’s story and its relevance today.
Cultural Significance in the Modern Age
Sir Joshua Reynolds’ portrait of Mai not only serves as a remarkable example of 18th-century British art, but it also opens up important conversations about representation, cultural exchange, and the legacy of colonialism. As the UK continues to reflect on its history, works like Portrait of Mai help spotlight the stories of individuals from the margins of empire who played significant roles in shaping collective memory.
Joshua Reynolds Portrait on Show: A Symbol of Unity
Miranda Stacey, Head of National Partnerships at the National Portrait Gallery, expressed her excitement about launching Journeys with Mai in Bradford, stating, “We are delighted to be launching this important project during Bradford’s UK City of Culture year.” She extended gratitude to all supporters who have helped bring this momentous piece to the public.
Bringing Art to the People
One of the key goals of this national tour is to make high-profile artworks accessible to all corners of the country. Often, significant pieces like this are restricted to the walls of London galleries. Through partnerships and community-focused programming, the National Portrait Gallery hopes to challenge this trend, promoting inclusivity and national participation in cultural heritage.
Timeline and Future Destinations
- Bradford (Cartwright Hall) – until 17 August 2025
- Cambridge – Autumn 2025
- Plymouth – Early 2026
- J. Paul Getty Museum, Los Angeles – from mid-2026
Joshua Reynolds’ Lasting Influence
Sir Joshua Reynolds, one of the most celebrated painters of the Georgian era, founded the Royal Academy and influenced generations of artists. His ability to humanise his subjects while maintaining an air of grandeur helped establish the conventions of British portraiture. Portrait of Mai exemplifies this legacy and remains one of the finest examples of cross-cultural representation in European art.
Reflections on a Cultural Bridge
As Portrait of Mai continues its journey across cities and continents, it becomes more than just a painting—it becomes a bridge connecting the 18th-century world with the present. Through education, reflection, and celebration, this exhibition brings to light a compelling story of cultural meeting points and the human spirit of exploration.
