Royal artist unveils Chancellor's portrait

Monday, 16 April 2012

Keith Hodgson, Director of Governance; Chancellor Sir John Madejski; Artist Richard Stone and Vice-Chancellor Sir David Bell at the unveiling of the Chancellor's portrait

Traditionally the University commissions an official portrait of its Chancellor during his term of office and, on Monday 26 March in connection with the annual meeting of the University Court, Sir John Madejski, the University's seventh Chancellor since receiving its Royal Charter in 1926, stood by as artist Richard Stone unveiled his magnificent portrait to great acclaim. Fittingly, the unveiling took place in the University's Great Hall where Sir John presides over Degree Congregations each year.

Richard Stone, one of the UK's most distinguished portrait painters, has painted most members of the Royal Family as well as leading members of society and the community, and characterises his art as "a complex phenomenon ... the result of a unique and creative collaboration between artist and sitter".  The portrait was completed over four sittings and Sir John is delighted with the result.

Sir John's portrait hangs in Park House where it will welcome visitors to the University's fine dining facility. It replaces that of Lord Carrington which has now, very fittingly, been hung in the Carrington Building.