Los Angeles-based portrait photographer Rory Lewis has achieved a remarkable milestone in his photography career as his project, 'Soldiery,' finds a permanent home in the prestigious National Army Museum in London. Celebrating two decades in the industry, Lewis' 'Soldiery' is a testament to his dedication and talent as a portraitist.

The 'Soldiery' Project: A Contemporary Reflection of British Military Heritage

The 'Soldiery' project is a unique and historical documentation of the modern British Army, paying homage to the rich heritage of this institution. The project takes inspiration from historical portraiture and aims to capture the contemporary essence of the British Military.

Over the course of two years, Lewis worked tirelessly, collaborating closely with the Army to conduct hundreds of military portrait sittings. The result is a stunning collection of portraits featuring leaders and soldiers from various iconic regiments. Each portrait not only showcases the individual but also highlights the unique identity of their regiment and rank.

A Journey Across the UK to Capture Diversity

One of the most remarkable aspects of the 'Soldiery' project is the diversity it portrays within the British Army. Rory Lewis' lens traveled the length and breadth of the United Kingdom, visiting 23 geographically and culturally diverse regiments. This journey offered an intimate look at the men and women who serve in the Army, hailing from various corners of the globe, including places like Malawi, Zimbabwe, Canada, and Australia.

Each regiment is like its own distinct tribe, with its unique uniforms, traditions, and heritage. 'Soldiery' captures the pride these soldiers have in their identity, both past and present. From the gallant Royal Lancers to the legendary Gurkhas and the formidable Parachute Regiment, Lewis' project leaves no stone unturned in portraying the 21st-century face of the British Army.

Living History in Portraits

'Soldiery' goes beyond being a mere portrait collection; it serves as a historical record of the British Army in the early 21st century. By featuring esteemed generals and senior staff, the project encapsulates the grandeur and diversity of the Army. Lewis' work draws inspiration from the portraits of renowned military artist George Dawe, creating a collection that's both contemporary and timeless.

The 'Soldiery' Book: A Window into British Military Excellence

Accompanying the exhibition is the 'Soldiery' book authored by Rory Lewis, with a foreword by General Sir James Everard KCB CBE. This book provides a deeper insight into the project, the soldiers, and the regiments they represent. It's a literary complement to the visual spectacle of the portraits.

Exhibitions that Left a Mark

'Soldiery' has made waves in the art world with several exhibitions. Notably, it graced the halls of the National Army Museum in London, where it was open to the public from January 27th to February 12th, 2018. This exhibition marked a significant milestone in Rory Lewis' career, solidifying his position as a distinguished portrait photographer with a unique perspective.

Celebrating Heroism and Diversity

'Soldiery' not only celebrates heroism but also embraces diversity within the British Army. It's a testament to the men and women who serve their country with dedication and pride. Rory Lewis' work captures the essence of Army life, showcasing the fresh-faced recruits alongside battle-hardened veterans.

Conclusion

Rory Lewis' 'Soldiery' project is a remarkable achievement in his illustrious photography career. It serves as a tribute to the British Army, both past and present, and is now a part of the permanent collection at the National Army Museum in London. This project is a testament to the power of photography to capture history, heritage, and the human spirit. It's a celebration of the diversity and excellence within the British Military, and it rightfully takes its place among the prestigious collections of the National Army Museum.