Drawn to the Boro: Portrait Project Celebrates Migration Stories in Middlesbrough.

Drawn to the Boro is a major portrait painting project set to be exhibited in August 2027, celebrating the rich migration stories that have shaped Middlesbrough. Ten nominated residents have shared their personal histories with artist Helen Bainbridge, each becoming the subject of a large-scale painted portrait.

Middlesbrough, founded in 1830, grew rapidly through industrial expansion, drawing workers from across the UK and beyond. Migration is woven into the town’s identity — and into Helen’s own story.

“My family and I migrated away from Middlesbrough in the 1970s and 80s in search of employment. As a child I lived in Africa and Canada. If you look far enough back, we all carry stories of movement. In a town like Middlesbrough, those stories are everywhere.”

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.

“It was essential that every sitter felt fully seen,” Helen explains. “The scale matters — I didn’t want the paintings to diminish anyone. For me, painting is an act of deep attention. Pattern and decorative detail become quiet narrative threads, holding aspects of heritage, memory or inner life without defining them too tightly.”

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

“I was profoundly moved by every encounter. I feel truly honoured that each person trusted me with their story.”

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