Paintings by hospice patient in Bishop Auckland exhibition

Thirteen watercolours by Dick Scott, an inpatient at St Oswald’s Hospice in Gosforth, have gone on public display for the first time.

Dick Scott at The Auckland Palace where his art work that was long-forgotten has been displayed in a brand new art exhibition (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

The works, inspired by Francisco de Zurbarán’s Jacob and his Twelve Sons, were painted more than a decade ago, then left tucked away in Dick’s Longbenton home.

The collection came to light only after a conversation between social worker Marisa Woodward and Dick’s sister, Sue Coxon.

Dick Scott at The Auckland Palace where his art work that was long-forgotten has been displayed in a brand new art exhibition (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

When Woodward contacted The Auckland Project for advice, Chief Operating Officer Richard Hinch immediately asked to feature the paintings in the new Hub’s opening exhibition.

Dick, who first picked up a brush in 2000 after recovering from a liver transplant, plans to donate the paintings to the Hospice and is now working on a mural celebrating its care.

After opening the exhibition, he will receive a VIP tour of Auckland Palace to view Zurbarán’s originals for the first time.

Dick Scott at The Auckland Palace where his art work that was long-forgotten has been displayed in a brand new art exhibition (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

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 said: “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.”

Dick Scott at The Auckland Palace where his art work that was long-forgotten has been displayed in a brand new art exhibition (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

Robert said: “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.”

Dick Scott at The Auckland Palace where his art work that was long-forgotten has been displayed in a brand new art exhibition (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

The Artists’ Hub will offer courses in ceramics, photography and textiles in partnership with Bishop Auckland College.

St Oswald’s Hospice Family Support Services cost £300,000 a year to run and receive no statutory funding.

Its 2025 Giving Day and Christmas Fundraising Appeal aim to generate vital support for patients like Scott.