HIV is still a red-hot issue in the UK

The red ribbon is the universal symbol of awareness and support for those living with HIV. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the National Aids Trust (NAT), the UK's leading charity dedicated to transforming society's response to HIV. In honour of the occasion, a number of NAT's high-profile supporters have created exclusive pieces of red-ribbon art.

Celebrities including Annie Lennox, Alan Cumming and Jo Brand, and designers such as Sir Paul Smith, Matthew Williamson and Giles Deacon have all created pieces for the Red Ribbon Art Exhibition at London's City Hall. The exhibition opens this Tuesday and runs until 7 December. It also coincides with World Aids Day, which is on Saturday.

Around 100,000 people in the UK are living with HIV, yet HIV-related stigma and discrimination are still rife.

As well as celebrating 25 years of NAT, the exhibition aims to highlight that HIV continues to be a major issue here in the UK – public awareness and knowledge of HIV are declining, says the charity – and to turn a spotlight on the issue, inspiring people by both the art and the work of NAT. The artwork is an eclectic mix and represents diversity, hope, spirit and support, with each piece featuring the red ribbon in some way.