Bryanston School art teacher Jack Dickson recently featured on the BBC programme Extraordinary Portraits, presented by comedian and art enthusiast Bill Bailey. Tasked with creating a portrait of a life-saving railway worker, Jack captured the essence of Rizwan Javed MBE.
East Londoner Rizwan, who works for London Underground, has saved 29 people from taking their own lives over the past eight years. Describing himself as an “artistic magpie,” Jack gathered insights into Rizwan’s life by observing him at work on the Elizabeth line and meeting his family. Rizwan also visited Jack’s studio in Blandford, Dorset, alongside Bill Bailey, where Jack began weaving together the remarkable threads of Rizwan’s story into a multilayered portrait that reflects his “humility and dignity.”
At the grand reveal, Rizwan and his family were visibly moved by Jack’s extraordinary artwork. “You’ve got magic in your hand – you’re truly gifted and it’s beyond anything I ever expected,” said Rizwan, adding that he felt comfortable enough to share deeply personal things with Jack, some of which even his family hadn’t heard. Honoured to have the opportunity to highlight such a significant journey, Jack remarked, “I feel humbled by what you have to say – it really has been a privilege to do this and tell your story.”
The portrait itself places Rizwan at the centre, reflecting his calm nature and remarkable ability to communicate with vulnerable individuals. Surrounding him is a lively, colourful background symbolising the bustle and noise of his job and busy life, a reminder of his quiet heroism.
Extraordinary Portraits pairs talented artists with people who have powerful and inspiring stories to tell. The series is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.
