New portrait of Sir David Attenborough revealed in city
A stunning new portrait of Leicester honorary graduate and Distinguished Honorary Fellow Sir David Attenborough at Leicester’s New Walk Museum has been revealed by the man himself.
The painting was commissioned to commemorate Sir David’s 90th birthday, and was produced from a series of private sittings earlier this year between Sir David and the distinguished portrait artist Bryan Organ – who is also an honorary graduate of the University.
Sir David revealed the portrait at New Walk Museum and Art Gallery last month at an event attended by President and Vice-Chancellor Professor Paul Boyle and Director of Development and Alumni Relations Bill Friar.
Chris Shaw, from the University’s Development and Alumni Relations Office, said: “We were absolutely delighted to be asked to contribute towards this landmark painting of Sir David. I think the end result is quite splendid and really showcases the spirit of this iconic man. It is wonderful that Sir David continues to be actively involved with the University of Leicester, for that we are most grateful.”
The work, which is believed to be the only solo portrait for which Sir David has agreed to sit, is an acknowledgement of his childhood connections to New Walk Museum.
The portrait was commissioned by the City of Leicester Museums Trust (COLMT) charity, on behalf of the city council’s museums and represents a ‘people’s portrait’.
The portrait was unveiled at a private event at New Walk Museum’s Victorian Gallery. Earlier in the day, Sir David opened a new visitor centre at Bradgate Park.
Earlier in the year Sir David delivered a lecture in the Chancellor's Distinguished Lecture Series on 'Beauty in Nature', which saw De Montfort Hall packed with audience members eager to hear the renowned broadcaster discuss his experiences with the natural world. Highlights from Sir David Attenborough's visit to the University are available here.
Watch a video about Sir David Attenborough's memories of the University of Leicester below: