In common with many local museums, Mansfield has an eclectic collection of oil paintings. Acquired over the last century, the paintings range from formal portraits to more naturalistic landscapes, via animal studies and still lifes. The larger of the older paintings came to the museum by way of Mansfield District Council, who had displayed them in their former offices at Carr Bank Park. Of particular note are three examples of the work of Wright Barker, who exhibited from 1891 to 1938 at the Royal Academy and who was resident for a time in Mansfield. Amongst other notable acquisitions are three examples of the work of Hector McDonald Sutton. Born in 1903, this portrait painter and innovator was always looking at new techniques and styles and helped push the boundaries of modernism. Again, the local connection is evident in the fact that Sutton was for many years President of the Mansfield Society of Artists, as well as being the Principal of the College of Art and Art Advisor for the County.