Ever wonder who really keeps the spotlights shining and the curtains rising? Sky Arts has launched an incredible portrait series, ’24-Hour Heroes,’ shining a light on the dedicated, often unseen, individuals powering our cultural world. From stage managers to sound engineers, these are the true unsung heroes of the UK arts scene. What unsung heroes do you think deserve more recognition?

Sky Arts has unveiled its poignant “24-Hour Heroes” portrait series, a compelling tribute designed to illuminate the indispensable, often-overlooked individuals who form the backbone of the United Kingdom’s dynamic UK arts scene. This striking collection shifts the spotlight from celebrated performers to the tireless professionals whose dedication ensures the continuity and vibrancy of the nation’s cultural institutions.

The initiative arrives as a prelude to the prestigious Sky Arts Awards, scheduled for September 16th at The Roundhouse, London. By showcasing 24 unsung arts heroes, the series underscores a fundamental truth: creativity thrives not just through artistic talent but also through the unwavering commitment of an extensive, behind-the-scenes workforce.

Delving into the vast ecosystem of creative support, “24-Hour Heroes” captures the essence of roles ranging from early-morning stage managers meticulously unlocking venue doors to dedicated cleaners and book editors meticulously working into the twilight hours. It celebrates the riggers, engineers, drivers, cooks, and mentors whose contributions are as crucial as any on-stage performance.

The compelling portrait photography for the series was masterfully captured by a diverse group of acclaimed photographers across the UK, including Ricky Darko, Julie Broadfoot, and Simon Murrell. These evocative images will not only grace Instagram but will also be prominently exhibited at The Roundhouse during the forthcoming awards ceremony, offering a powerful visual narrative.

Phil Edgar-Jones OBE, Executive Director, Unscripted Originals at Sky, eloquently articulated the project’s philosophy, stating, “The arts are powered 24/7 by an army of extraordinary people working tirelessly behind the scenes to keep the UK arts world thriving.” His comments emphasize the parity between the celebrated and the supporting, asserting that all contribute equally to the cultural celebration.

This significant series coincides with the opening of nominations for the distinguished Arts Hero Award, a pivotal component of the Sky Arts Awards. This unique accolade specifically champions those often-unrecognized individuals, positioning their vital work alongside the achievements of filmmakers, poets, dancers, and musicians, truly reflecting the holistic nature of the arts sector.

The Sky Arts Awards stands alone as the only ceremony to comprehensively celebrate the entirety of British and Irish culture. Encompassing diverse categories from comedy, dance, film, and literature to opera, visual art, and theatre, it meticulously acknowledges every facet of the creative landscape, prominently featuring the contributions of all who keep the UK’s rich arts sector running.

Through this powerful visual and narrative journey, Sky Arts not only recognizes these foundational arts heroes but also inspires a deeper appreciation for the intricate network of professionals whose round-the-clock efforts ensure that the UK arts scene continues to flourish, enriching lives and communities nationwide.