College history goes on show in Cornmarket

The building on the corner of Market Street is being demolished to make way for new shops and student accommodation.

The new hoarding design tells the story of the historic college - from the 16th century when it was founded by Queen Elizabeth I to the present day.

It celebrates famous alumni, including Labour Prime Minister Harold Wilson and Lawrence of Arabia.

College principal Sir Nigel Shadbolt said: “We have put a lot of thought into the hoardings, which we wanted to be visually appealing and to add interest to the street.”

Designer Gareth Wild, of Apropos, working in partnership with Jesus College, is a graduate of the Royal College of Art and formerly senior designer for Neville Brody.

He has worked closely with Jesus College Fellows, the Principal Sir Nigel Shadbolt, college librarian Owen McKnight and design researcher Bev Saunders to develop a narrative and source photographs and paintings to trace the history of the College, which was founded in 1571.

The artworks celebrate the college’s links with Wales - Jesus College is also known as ‘The Welsh College’ - as well as highlighting some of the impressive achievements of current and former alumni.

Colourful panels will also include information about the new building, which will be completed in 2021.

The building will be the biggest physical transformation that the 450-year-old college has undergone since the 17th century, and will include academic research and teaching facilities, student accommodation, a digital hub, as well as brand new retail space.

Jesus College will change some of the hoardings panels over the coming months to share information.

Sir Nigel added: “The redevelopment project will be continuing until 2021, meaning the hoardings will be in place for some considerable time.

"Given the Northgate site’s position in the centre of Oxford our intention was to make the surroundings more engaging while work is under way.

"We hope that people will find the hoardings interesting and intriguing, and we will be keen to hear people’s opinions.”

Designer Gareth Wild added: "The Northgate hoardings are a fantastic and rare opportunity - a huge evolving canvas at the centre of Oxford’s busy retail district. "