Faces of adversity

This powerful selection of more than 30 portraits is the result of a remarkable collaboration between leading surgeon Iain Hutchinson (consultant in oral and maxillofacial surgery at St Bartholomew's and the Royal London Hospital) and previous BP Portrait Award prize-winner Mark Gilbert.

Gilbert's paintings (including 'Henry E. And Jerry', pictured) interpret the patient's physical appearance before, after and occasionally, during their corrective surgery, searingly conveying the character and spirit of the sitters he encountered during his year-long residency at the Royal London Hospital. Sitting for, and seeing, their portraits have a cathartic effect on many of the cancer and trauma patients, allowing them to come to terms with their altered appearance.

The viewer cannot fail but be moved by the emotional charge Gilbert has instilled in his work, showing the power of canvas over celluloid in achieving personality in portraiture.

Saving Faces: Portraits By Mark Gilbert, Wed 27 Feb-Sun 21 Apr, National Portrait Gallery , St Martin's Place, WC2 (020-7306 0055)