Portraits of Keble III
Alumnus Adrian Grayston (1972 PPE) under his portrait with family and friends
On Saturday 25 January, Keble launched its third ‘Portraits of Keble’ photographic exhibition with an opening event celebrating the diverse and inspiring individuals who have shaped the Keble community, from distinguished alumni to current students and staff.
The 28 new portrait subjects — portraits across the three installations now total 84 — were invited along with their friends and family to view the exhibition in Hall. The sense of warmth and pride at the event was palpable. It was a delight to see the subjects and their loved ones viewing the portraits for the first time and sharing kind messages about the launch.
A key part of the event’s success were the efforts of those behind the scenes. Special thanks go to Fran Monks, the portrait artist whose dedication, hard work and artistic eye ensured that each portrait reflected the true character of the individuals featured.
Additionally, the smooth installation of the exhibition was made possible with the professionalism and expertise of Outback Rigging, the installation company that has been on hand to assist in each of the exhibitions to date.
The opening event was a great success and a very memorable occasion for all in attendance. Hopefully the exhibition will continue to be an important fixture, celebrating the faces of our College. You can view all three installations, and read the subjects’ stories, on the dedicated ‘Portraits of Keble’ website.
Tamilore Oni
"It was an honour to be featured alongside such an inspiring group of individuals. Fran Monks has a remarkable ability to capture the essence of her subjects. Each portrait radiates personality and depth. Additionally, being able to experience the portraits unveiled among friends and family made it even more special. The event was a wonderful celebration of community, creativity, and connection. I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to be part of this lasting tribute to the people who make our College so unique."
Adrian Grayston
"What a fantastic evening in Hall with family, meeting new friends and old — all perfectly choreographed by the Keble Team. It was like Christmas, when as a child you had asked Santa for a surprise, not knowing what to expect but being totally delighted by what you got, and all the magic that surrounded the gift. Thus it was in Hall, as four hours flew by in a blur. It was as though time was on fast forward and then the whole wonderful evening was over, but the Portraits and the memories remain."
Molly Evans
“The launch was so lovely. It was exciting to be able to meet all the other people who are a part of the exhibition. I am really grateful to be among such a wonderful, successful group.”
Geoffrey Nice
"The photographs are all terrific. Having spent time with Fran when photographed and having reviewed her work elsewhere, their quality is unsurprising; they demonstrate the true brilliance of the photographer. The evening was made the more memorable by the Warden's generous speech and by his and other families being present. The event was truly heart-warming."
