Devonport has a fascinating, often overlooked, history of portrait art, with one of its most notable figures being the 18th-century artist Joshua Reynolds. Running a studio in the exact location that Market Hall now stands, Reynolds painted many high-ranking naval officers, beginning a career that would establish him as one of the most renowned portrait painters of his era.

As part of the Transforming Walls project, Year 5 and 6 students from Mount Wise Primary School delved into the world of portraiture across four engaging sessions. With support from The Box, the children explored Reynolds’ legacy and the history of portraiture, discovering its deep connection to Devonport. Led by the team at Real Ideas, the students discussed who traditionally had their portraits painted and why. They then chose someone in their life they felt deserved to be featured in a portrait, explaining why that person was particularly important to them.

After selecting their special someone, the students got creative! They screen-printed backgrounds inspired by locations around Devonport, setting the stage for their painted portraits.

This exhibition showcases their final pieces, each a heartfelt tribute to personal connections, admiration, and love.

Presented with thanks to the staff and students at Mount Wise School, as part of Devonport 200.