Forgotten paintings step into light

A community arts hub in the North East is set to shine a light on a remarkable artistic rediscovery.

Thirteen watercolours created more than a decade ago by St Oswald’s Hospice patient Dick Scott will go on public display for the first time at Bishop Auckland’s new Artists’ Hub.

The pieces – inspired by Francisco de Zurbarán’s Jacob and his Twelve Sons – had been stored away in Dick’s Longbenton home until they were uncovered during a conversation between his social worker, Marisa Woodward, and his sister, Sue Coxon.

Their creation dates back to 2012, when plans by the Church Commissioners to sell the original Zurbarán paintings sparked a regional campaign to keep them in the North East. 

Philanthropists Jonathan and Jane Ruffer ultimately stepped in to secure the collection, placing the works and Auckland Palace into a charitable trust to support local people and drive Bishop Auckland’s cultural regeneration. 

The story inspired Dick to paint his own series in tribute.

Once Dick’s watercolours had been rediscovered, Marisa contacted The Auckland Project and chief operating officer Richard Hinch, who offered guidance and arranged for the collection to be exhibited.

Dick Scott, Jane Ruffer and Richard Finch

Sue said: “Richard told us he loved the paintings and wanted them for the first exhibition in the new Artists’ Hub in Bishop Auckland town centre. 

“He also invited Dick to officially open the Hub at a VIP event. 

“When I told Dick, he was overwhelmed with emotion – he never thought anyone would see them.”

Dick plans to donate the paintings to St Oswald’s Hospice and is now working on a new mural celebrating its care. 

He will open the Artists’ Hub’s first exhibition in December before enjoying a VIP tour of Auckland Palace to view the original Zurbarán works.

Dick added: “I’m not a religious man, but there was something about those paintings that really moved me.

“All I’ve ever wanted is for people to see my paintings.  

“For them to make their debut in such a prestigious setting is beyond my imagination, and I am grateful to St Oswald’s Hospice and The Auckland Project for making this happen.”

Richard added: “These are remarkable paintings, and this is an extraordinary story.  

“If it hadn’t been for a chance conversation, they may never have seen the light of day, which would have been a travesty.”

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →