Art on campus

Bronze, 2013 + 2019

These two life-size bronze sculptures were commissioned from our artist-in-residence, Amy Goodman.

The angelic figures are set within our two main quarters, welcoming all to the University and offer quiet but nurturing strength with their elegance and beauty. The first angel was installed at King Alfred’s Quarter in 2013, and subsequently a second angel which was installed at West Downs Quarter in 2020.

Bronze, 2021

Titled Make a Difference, this sculpture was commissioned as part of the West Downs Centre development, the University’s flagship learning and teaching building. It is believed to be the world’s first life-size sculpture of the young Swedish climate change activist Greta Thunberg and is a symbol of the University’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and social justice.

Artist Christine Charlesworth’s work on the sculpture was influenced by her personal experience of young people with learning disabilities. “It is hard to deny Greta's courage and determination,” said Christine. “I hope that I have been able to portray her lack of self-confidence and her insecurity while, at the same time, showing her commitment in putting across her strongly-held views. She stands on a block to give her additional height, her one foot extending forward in a pose that conveys some instability and uncertainty. One hand forms a loose fist expressing apprehension, while the other points tentatively forwards, stressing a point she is making. She nevertheless fails to make full eye contact with her audience.”

Bronze, 2016

Inspired by the Gospel of Matthew 25:40, this life-size bronze sculpture is a visual representation of charity. Artist Timothy Schmalz suggests that we should see Christ in the poor and the hungry and that we can offer acts of kindness to them as a kindness to Him.