Listen to Sir Anthony Caro in conversation with Tim Marlow

The event drew a large audience of College members and the general public, further establishing Wolfson's reputation for fostering cultural and artistic excellence in Oxford.

With enormous charm, the art historian and Director of White Cube Gallery Tim Marlow described Sir Anthony's tutelage under Henry Moore, his time in America, and his nurturing of a generation of artists including Gilbert and George.

College President Hermione Lee articulated the significance of Sir Anthony's longstanding contribution to the College's cultural heritage: ‘Sir Anthony Caro's visit to the College where he has been an Honorary Fellow since 1991 was a great occasion for all of us. To see Sir Anthony in the marble hall, benignly inspecting the sculpture "Double Half" which he gave to the College in 1988 (and which is now sitting proudly on a newly furbished plinth with newly polished plaque), was a very pleasing moment. From the start of his interview with Tim Marlow it was clear this was going to be a highly enjoyable occasion.'

Sonia Boue, a member of the Wolfson Arts Society, reported that ‘Sir Anthony charmed us all with his gentle wit and graceful humility. The extraordinary warmth of this great man was as tangible as his steel sculptural works.'

Sir Anthony expressed his love for collaging in steel, as well as his devotion to a creative process that never allows him to look back over old work.  He voiced great enthusiasm about young London sculptors.

Sir Anthony also described a current project that, if funded, could result in a sculpture three blocks' long in New York. The evening proved inspirational for all, attested by Sonia Boue: ‘Last night made me want to start up the campaign for funding right now. Imagine the spirit of this wonderful man rendered in steel over three blocks in Park Avenue.  I for one want to see it happen.'

From the Wolfson College community, we would like to thank Sir Anthony and Tim Marlow for participating in such a lively discussion.  For further information about artistic activities at Wolfson, visit the Arts Society webpage or contact Jan Scriven.

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