Union J, Ann Carrington (British, b. 1962), mixed media

A commanding reinterpretation of Britain’s most iconic symbol, Union J is meticulously constructed from thousands of black matte and glossy buttons on a deep ebony ground. Carrington’s precision with pattern and surface transforms these humble elements into a dynamic meditation on light, shadow and collective identity.

For over 35 years, Ann Carrington has pioneered material-driven storytelling—from button and cutlery reliefs to barbed-wire sculptures—each work interrogating folk traditions and cultural memory. Her pieces belong to the Victoria & Albert Museum, the United Nations Headquarters and the Royal College of Art. She’s exhibited at the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition, Manchester Art Gallery and Tate St Ives, with commissions for Queen Elizabeth II, Sir Elton John and the British Council.

Her landmark Pearly Queen tapestry realised over $22,680 at Christie’s New York in 2024, underscoring the surging global appetite for her textural, narrative-rich works. Union J builds on that momentum—bold, contemporary and deeply resonant.

Dimensions: 90 × 122 cm
(ARR applies)