News

Durham-based sculptor, Fenwick Lawson, receives honorary degree

(24 June 2008)

Influential, Durham-based sculptor Fenwick Lawson is one of nine to be awarded an honorary degree from Durham University this week (24 – 27 June 2008).

Durham born and bred, Fenwick’s work is exhibited in several venues across Durham. ‘The Pieta’ - a wooden sculpture depicting the body of Jesus and his mother Mary – is displayed in Durham Cathedral and his most recent sculpture ‘The Journey’ is to soon to be erected in Durham City Centre. Durham University also hosts several of his works, including most recently, the ‘Crucifixion, Resurrection and Ascension’ sculpture hanging in Grey College Chapel. Fenwick Lawson said: “I am delighted to have been offered this Honorary Doctorate degree coming, as it did, with some surprise. For me the honour is very special because I am Durham County born and have lived and worked in the region for most of my life. “Durham is the source and inspiration for my work: Durham is my identity. I have been involved with the University for some thirty years as a Senior Common Room Member of Hatfield College and it gives me great pleasure in the anticipation of a continued participation in the cultural life of the University.” Dr Gillian Boughton, Vice-Principal & Senior Tutor of St Mary’s College, nominated Fenwick Lawson for his honorary degree. Dr Boughton said: “Fenwick Lawson has produced powerful sculpture over a career spanning more than fifty years; not only 'The Journey' recently filmed by BBC Look North , destined for Durham city centre, but, a number of works , predominantly in churches in the North East and North West of England, Southwark Cathedral and Rome. “Four colleges within Durham University are privileged to display his work currently. He has been an inspired teacher and scholar of fine art ceaselessly searching for the idiom for his imagery, which 'border-crosses' - frequently setting a secular piece in a spiritual setting. He has been an inspiring and generous neighbour to the University over many years.”