Selfie Exhibition Opens in London

Depending on your definition of a “selfie,” people have been taking them since long before the smartphone was invented. Now, a new exhibition from art retailer King and McGaw titled “The Art of the Selfie” is exploring the cultural impact of the self-indulgent art form. 

Opened in the tunnels of London’s Old Street Station on November 4, the pop-up gallery showcases everything from contemporary selfies to classical self-portraiture. Iconic works from artists like Andy Warhol and Frida Kahlo will be on display, and in keeping with the theme, visitors will have the opportunity to create selfies of their own. One interactive area generates atomized self-portraits in real time, while another uses a series of reflective strips to capture 180-degree views of your face.

The gallery is also hosting events, including a charcoal self-portrait class and an Instagram technique workshop. The exhibition runs until November 14, and even if you can’t make it to London to see the art in person you can Tweet or Instagram them your favorite selfies using the hashtag #artoftheselfie. Whoever submits the best photo will receive £500 (a little over $750) and a special edition print of their masterpiece.