About the Exhibition

The story behind "Facing the Future" and our mission to support those affected by breast cancer.

16 Portraits

Portraits of those whose lives have been affected by breast cancer, including patients, healthcare professionals, and loved ones.

2nd - 14th October 2025

9am-4pm Monday-Friday
Saturday & Sunday by appointment - contact Ruth or Paul
The Art Academy, 185 Park Street, London SE1 9BL

Oxford 2026

Following the London exhibition, the portraits will be displayed at an exhibition in Oxford, helping extend the project's reach and impact.

The artists, Ruth Swain and Paul Starns, are fundraising for Breast Cancer Now through painting and then exhibiting a series of portraits of people affected by breast cancer.

The inspiration for this project came from Colin Davidson's exhibition 'Silent Testimony'. Paul and Ruth are working with Clare Calderwood, a current breast cancer patient and our main fundraiser, and Mary Modha of Breast Cancer Now.

The purpose of the project is to show that breast cancer affects everyone – men and women from all walks of life. The effects of breast cancer are profound – not just on those diagnosed, but also on their loved ones.

About the Exhibition

Four adults standing together against a pink background, smiling and with their arms around each other's shoulders.

The Mission

To tell the portrait sitter’s stories and celebrate their resilience, raising awareness of and funds for Breast Cancer Now – the research and support charity.

Three women smiling with arms around each other at a breast cancer awareness event, wearing black shirts with pink ribbons, event badges, and lanyards.