An official portrait of the beloved national treasure Sir David Attenborough by renowned artist Jonathan Yeo has been unveiled by the Royal Society. The artwork, which was recently revealed to the public, captures the 98-year-old documentarian and writer seated, holding his hands, and looking towards the viewer with a contemplative expression.
Honouring a Lifetime of Contribution
Sir David Attenborough expressed his gratitude and honour in being part of the Royal Society’s prestigious collection. “It was a tremendous honour to be elected a fellow of the Royal Society over 40 years ago, and that my portrait has now been painted by such a master as Jonathan Yeo for the society’s extensive and important collection is extraordinary indeed,” he said.
Reflecting on his life’s work, Sir David added, “To spend so much of my life looking at the natural world and attempting to convey to others its amazing complexity, beauty and, increasingly, its fragility, has been a great privilege. It has only been possible thanks to the extraordinary natural history filmmakers and the many dedicated scientists who have willingly shared their work with us.”
Unveiling Ceremony
The private unveiling of the portrait, attended by Sir David and the Royal Society’s president Sir Adrian Smith, was also shown to the public on The One Show. The event celebrated Sir David’s monumental contributions to natural history and science communication.
Artist’s Tribute
Jonathan Yeo, who recently produced the official portrait of King Charles III, spoke highly of Sir David. “It’s hard to imagine a public figure who has done more to engage and inspire all generations in the wonders of the natural world than Sir David,” Yeo stated.
“At a time when too many global leaders are failing to engage seriously in tackling threats to our climate and the natural world, Sir David’s lifetime of work in communicating and sharing its wonders and importance has been a service to all humanity. Sir David has long been a personal inspiration, and so it was a huge honour to be asked to paint his portrait for the Royal Society.”
Yeo, who has created portraits of many notable figures including the late Duke of Edinburgh, the Queen, Sir Tony Blair, and Lord Cameron, described his time with Sir David as both thrilling and privileged. “It has been a thrill as well as a privilege to spend so much time with someone whose wisdom is so deep and broad, and who is also such brilliant and entertaining company,” he added.
Royal Society’s Collection
Keith Moore, Head of Library and Archives at the Royal Society, expressed the institution’s delight in adding Sir David’s portrait to their collection. “We’re thrilled to have this portrait of Sir David as part of our collections. The Royal Society has many pictures of great scientists, over 300 original works of art and around 10,000 engravings and photographs.”
Moore highlighted the significance of Sir David’s contribution to science communication, stating, “You can find so many individuals from the scientific community of past centuries here: from Isaac Newton to Charles Darwin, and from Albert Einstein to Dorothy Hodgkin. But I’d defy you to find anyone who has touched as many people’s lives in explaining the ideas behind great science, and how they affect our world, as Sir David Attenborough. He’s one of a kind.”
The portrait by Jonathan Yeo not only celebrates Sir David Attenborough’s illustrious career but also his enduring legacy in raising awareness about climate change and biodiversity.
