Wolfson College unveils new painting in memory of Cecilia Dick

A new painting in honour of Wolfson’s first Domestic Bursar, Cecilia Dick, has been unveiled at the College. Orkney by Vanessa Gardiner hangs proudly outside the newly refurbished Lower Common Room.

Cecilia’s children have donated the painting to the College in honour of their mother, who was fundamental in shaping Wolfson during its first three decades and a beloved member of the College community.

Artist Vanessa Gardiner is a lifelong friend of the family and fondly remembers Cecilia as an early supporter of her work.

“A year after I graduated from the Central School of Art, I had my first solo exhibition and Cecilia promptly bought a dozen or so of my pictures – a generous and memorable thing to do and hugely encouraging at the start of my career.”

The painting, Cove 3 (Orkney) is of the cliffs and inlets at Yesnaby, seen from above and looking across to the headland jutting out to sea. Its taut lines, offset by the natural curve of the bay, reflect Wolfson’s iconic architecture set against the water of the River Cherwell.

The College is very grateful to the Dick family for their generosity.