UEL arts lecturer paints Olympic athletes

Luke Jacobs Friday, June 29, 2012
7:00 AM

Talented artist and University of East London (UEL) lecturer Teresa Witz is among those commissioned to paint life size portraits of Olympic athletes.

Her exhibition is made up of 10 representations of great British athletes including Oscar Pistorius, Mark Hunter, David Weir, Vanessa Raw, Perri Shakes-Drayton and Jeanette Kwakye.

In preparation for her role, Ms Witz spent four years travelling the country to meet athletes who were in training.

She said: “My paintings focus on the iconic in the contemporary mediatised world and I see Paralympic and Olympic athletes as “iconic unknowns”.

“My portraits seek to express the power and emotions invested in the pursuit of the Olympic dream.”

Her works will be on display at the Expo Fine Arts Gallery. at Heathrow Airport’s Terminal Five on July 11 and at Jubilee Park in Canary Wharf.

Ms Witz added: “Airports are not often associated with peace, culture and fine art. This is a great chance for passengers travelling through Heathrow Airport to enjoy a reprieve from long queues and the busy activity there.”

Her previous works include paintings of the likes of David and Victoria Beckham, Kylie Minogue, Cher and Paralympic equestrian gold medallist Lee Pearson.

For more information, visit www.teresawitz.co.uk