Drawn to the Boro is a series of ten large-scale portraits of Middlesbrough residents, each nominated as an unsung hero by their community and each an active participant in how they are represented. The ten sitters carry a range of migration stories — some who came from far away, some whose families came from somewhere nearer, all whose lives have shaped the town in their own way. Middlesbrough was built on migration, and the project takes that as its starting point. The exhibition opens in 2027. Drawn to the Boro is supported by Borderlands and Arts Council England.

The project invited nominations for “unsung heroes” — individuals who give generously to their communities, act as role models, or quietly strengthen the lives of others. The selected sitters represent a wide range of experiences, backgrounds and generations.

Each portrait measures approximately two metres by one metre.

"Part of what we're losing as a society is the simple practice of sitting down and listening to someone whose experience is very different to our own. Portraiture is a unique medium for that kind of attention; it asks both the painter and the viewer to slow down, look carefully, and be willing to revise."

All the sittings are now complete, and work continues in Helen’s studio ahead of the 2027 exhibition.

“I'm really grateful to each and every sitter. Everyone approached the project with warmth and openness.”

Nominations are now closed. Please subscribe to the newsletter below to be updated on the project.