Shand Kydd shares how he left his career as a Bond Street art dealer, picked up a point-and-shoot camera for the first time, and found himself at the centre of one of the most dynamic moments in British art.

He discusses the trust and intimacy that allowed him to photograph his friends and peers, the energy of London’s art scene before social media, and the honest, unguarded moments that defined his images — from parties at the Groucho Club to quiet portraits in artists’ studios.

This video is part of a special series of interviews with artists featured in the Seeing Each Other: Portraits of Artists exhibition, offering personal insights into the creative relationships that feature in their works.

Seeing Each Other: Portraits of Artists brings together over 150 works that explore artistic relationships, identity, and mutual influence in modern and contemporary British art. Spanning 125 years, it showcases paintings, prints, drawings, photography, sculpture, and installations that capture the distinctive gaze between creative peers.

Featuring over 80 artists including Lucian Freud, Lubaina Himid, David Hockney, Lee Miller, Eric Ravilious, Paula Rego and many more, the exhibition unveils friendships and emulation, as well as homages to earlier artists, through intimate portrayals. From rare portraits of celebrated figures to new commissions, discover connections that have shaped British art and new perspectives on artistic circles, from the Bloomsbury Group to the Young British Artists.

Seeing Each Other: Portraits of Artists is open at Pallant House Gallery until 2 November 2025. Book tickets here.