Local artists in ‘Paint Derry Heroes’ portraiture project for key workers

Inspired by a growing movement of artists around the world who are painting frontline workers, ‘Paint Derry Heroes’ are giving their time and talents to producing portraits of ‘essential’ workers who are keeping the community going whilst we stay safe at home.

The project aims to recognise the important contribution of all of the essential workers, whether they be bus drivers, cleaners, postmen or care workers.

The group have appealed for the Derry public to get involved to help identify people to have their portrait painted. They would like nominations of people who have continued to work through the lockdown, particularly the less well paid.

The scheme will culminate in an exhibition in May 2021 during DCSDC Workers Rights and Social Justice week.

Project Co-ordinator Nadia Kaczmarczuk, who is an artist herself, said: ‘I am overwhelmed with the enthusiasm of local artists to get involved with this project, and they are all such talented individuals.

“I am hoping there are plenty of working people who would like the chance to have their portrait painted as we can’t wait to get on with the painting!”

“We want Derry people to be painted by Derry artists. When they are exhibited a year from now we will be able to reflect on all this and hopefully these people will still be appreciated in the same way,” Nadia added.

While there is no venue yet for the exhibition, Nadia said it is hoped they will go on display in a central location in the city, somewhere ‘very prominent and public’.

The portraits can be done remotely or ideally facilitated in a socially distanced way.

“It is notoriously difficult to do a portrait from a favourite family shot as the lighting can be an issue.

“If people were comfortable with it the artists could meet them in a socially distanced way. Ideally we want to capture them as they are in ordinary every day life, so for example in their uniform or high vis jacket.”

To nominate a friend of family member who has been continuing to work during lockdown and who would like their portrait painted message the Facebook page ‘Paint Derry Heroes’.

Please include the nominees name, job and a contact number. Alternatively email [email protected] or text 07547572195.

Entries will close today, May 15 and a draw will be held later today to select one worker from each category.

The full list of categories are cleaner, hospital porter, postal worker, nursing home carer, taxi driver, refuse collector, paramedic, post office worker, bus driver, train driver, shop worker, community worker, community volunteer, call centre worker, firefighter, teacher, early years provider, nurses.