Jane and Louise Wilson ('False Positive, False Negative')
- Artist: Jane Wilson
- Artist: Louise Wilson
- Date: 2012
- Medium: screen print on mirrored acrylic
- Dimensions: 25 5/8 in. x 38 in. (650 mm x 965 mm) overall
- Portrays: Jane Wilson, Louise Wilson
- Museum: The National Portrait Gallery
- Collection record: The National Portrait Gallery website
Listen to the free audio guide
About this artwork
Here we see a screen print on mirrored acrylic by twin artists Jane and Louise Wilson. Their faces are covered with tiny white patches that look like camouflage nets—an effect built to confuse the face‑recognition software used in CCTV cameras. The glass is not just a frame; it also reflects you, so as you step closer you become part of the image.
The Wilson sisters first presented solo works together back in 1989 and have worked side by side ever since. They use photography, moving images and installations to explore power, control, perspective and the architecture of conflict. In this piece their own faces move from subject to object of surveillance.
See it in person
Jane and Louise Wilson ('False Positive, False Negative') is in the collection of The National Portrait Gallery at St Martin's Place, London — free to enter. Point your phone at any artwork there and audioguide.london plays a free audio guide in six languages — no app download needed.
