‘Ink To Oil’ contemporary portrait series celebrates Plymouth’s diverse community

A unique and inspiring collection of portraits created by artist Mick Hand is currently in the works, successfully representing the diverse communities across Plymouth. There are a total of 15 portraits to be included in the final selection, aiming for a series of individuals to be recognised in the city; inclusive of RNLI heroes, military personnel, veterans, fishermen/women and charity workers, just to name a few. Plymouth Community reporter, Issy Herring, went along to meet Mick and find out more.

The ‘Ink To Oil’ portrait series is an authentic and honourable depiction of individuality within Plymouth, positively embracing the city’s heritage as well as differing gender identities, body shapes and varying abilities. Ultimately, it helps to promote the idea of acceptance and inclusivity in the Plymouth area, while proudly exhibiting the city’s long-lasting and monumental heritage.

Hand’s portrait ‘A Volunteer’s Story’ from the series was successfully selected and displayed by the Royal Institute of Oil Painters during their 2023 exhibition at the Mall Galleries in central London.

‘Ink To Oil’s creator Mick Hand spoke about the experience. He said: “I was very honoured when 'A Volunteer's Story' was chosen for the Royal Institute of Oil Painters' 2023 exhibition. The recognition reaffirmed my commitment to capturing the diverse stories of Plymouth's communities and inspired me to continue the series.” 

Hand also spoke about why he was particularly drawn to and inspired by the city of Plymouth for his ‘Ink To Oil’ project: “I was inspired to initiate the "Ink to Oil" project by the diverse communities I noticed as I spent more and more time in Plymouth. Communities seemed varied and interesting, ranging from dedicated RNLI volunteers, Bikers, sea swimmers through to fishermen and military personnel, I wanted to represent as many as I could through portraiture.”

“The "Ink to Oil" series has been a journey filled with fascinating encounters and authentic stories. From veterans sharing their service experiences to sea swimmers embracing the ocean, each portrait reflects a unique slice of Plymouth's diverse community. My wife, Michelle, and I have been fortunate to meet so many
remarkable people through embarking on this project. Not only the subjects but people who have been interested and supported the initiative along the way. Each subject's willingness to share their passions and stories has been so inspiring, and it's been a privilege to capture them in oils.” 

It appears that Hand was also influenced by external factors such as body art for this portraiture project: “I aimed to establish a connecting thread among the subjects in the series, symbolising their unique narratives. Each subject is adorned with tattoos, ranging from a few to many. Additionally, some of the subjects are creators of body art themselves. Body art, whether abundant or minimal, embodies a distinct story for each individual, reflecting personal experiences, cultural heritage, or cherished interests. I intend to highlight some of the personal insights behind their choices as part of the exhibition.”

Mick Hand is an arts educator, plein air and portrait painter, currently splitting his time between studios in his hometown in West Yorkshire and Plymouth. Hand predominantly uses oil paints for his creative ventures, triumphantly capturing a sense of realism with the Italian originated loose alla prima technique. Aside from his portraiture, Hand also takes on private artistic commission projects, creating impactful imagery due to close connection with the subject matter. 

Hand has also collaborated with the 29 Commando Regiment Royal Artillery for the ‘Ink To Oil’ collection with the portrait ‘29, Ink & Steel’ being exhibited at the Royal Citadel on The Hoe. Additionally, two of the portraits from the series are currently on display at the Royal Plymouth Corinthian Yacht Club at The Parade in the Barbican. All 15 of Hand’s individual pieces from the ‘Ink To Oil’ collection are set to be displayed in a solo exhibition in due course. Make sure to keep up to date with Mick Hand’s latest and upcoming portraiture ventures via his Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/mickhandart/