College history man deserves a big hand

Neil Handley, curator for the College of Optometrists' optical museum, has become the subject of his latest exhibit.

A painting featuring his own hand holding a model practice eye, drawn by artist Patrice Moor, has been put on display at the museum.

'We thought this was a very good feature. It is great to have something new and fresh in the collection on a temporary basis. The artist thought the curator was such an important part of the museum he should be depicted in it,' said Handley.

His fame will be short-lived, however, as the painting, called The Curator's Hand, will soon be removed for commercial sale. 'It was a bit of a novelty and a good fun project,' he said.