• 13 photographs have been acquired for Birmingham’s permanent collection  

• Subjects include Lenny Henry, Shazia Mirza and Frank Skinner

• Acquisition also includes a photograph of a page from Tony Hancock classic comedy sketch The Blood Donor.

Birmingham Museums is pleased to announce the acquisition of 13 photographs from a major exhibition of UK comedy legends by British photographer Andy Hollingworth.  

The photographs of some of the West Midlands’ best-loved comedy performers, together with a photograph of a page of a classic Tony Hancock script, were on display as part of I photograph comedians! by Andy Hollingworth at Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery from 18 February to 31 May 2026,

Andy Hollingworth has attained critical acclaim and success in the UK, having spent almost three decades creating distinctive and engaging imagery of famous comedians, documenting their careers and iconic personas.

Portraits of Jasper Carrott, Janice Connolly, Gary Delaney, Jo Enright, Lenny Henry, Stewart Lee, Joe Lycett, Shazia Mirza, Bill Oddie, Lindsay Santoro, Frank Skinner and Mark Williams, along with a photograph of a section of script from the comedy sketch The Blood Donor containing the line “a pint, that’s nearly an armful” will now become part of the city’s permanent collection.  

Sara Wajid and Zak Mensah, co-chief executives of Birmingham Museums Trust, said:

“We are delighted to acquire these items for Birmingham’s permanent collection.  

“Andy Hollingworth’s portraits brilliantly capture the character and creativity of some of the region’s most loved comedians and these works will help us to preserve an important record of popular culture and performance associated with the West Midlands.”

Andy Hollingworth said:

“It’s a real honour to have these portraits acquired by Birmingham Museums Trust.  

“There is a rich history of comedy in the West Midlands and it’s incredibly special to know these images will become part of the city’s permanent collection.”