After a successful art residency at Burgmann College, artist and alum Julian Twigg (1984–1986) generously donated a painting, Winter, 2025 (pictured), to Burgmann.
'I thoroughly enjoyed my residency at Burgmann College in 2025', said Julian. 'The opportunity gave me time to explore Canberra and create a body of artwork, and the College generously provided me with board and lodging and a studio space to paint in, culminating in an art exhibition [during Back-to-Burg 2025]. Gifting a painting shows my appreciation of everything that was done for me whilst I was Artist in Residence at Burgmann College. The painting was a culmination of all my art residency work.'
'Julian serves as an outstanding example to our residents of what it looks like to follow a passion, and to create great works from it', said College Dean Monte Nathan. 'I am personally so thankful to Julian for his donation of the amazing painting of our College. I think it will not only light up whatever space we choose to hang it, but will also serve as a lovely reminder of the relationship that our alumni have with the College.'
The College directed proceeds from Julian's exhibition to the Harriet Nixon Scholarship.
'Donating a percentage of sales from the Residency exhibition to the Harriet Nixon Scholarship was also a fulfilling way of giving back to the College, and helping those less fortunate than myself to be able attend College and University’, said Julian. ‘I also have a special connection to the Nixon family, as Harriet's grandmother was my boarding house matron at school.’
With gratitude to members of Council and staff who donated, the College was also able to purchase Julian's painting of the Village, titled Burgmann Village 2025 (pictured), to retain as part of the College's art collection.
Burgmann College and the Nixon family offer our deepest gratitude for Julian's kind gifts and his continued connection to College, and for the support of our alumni, staff and Council Members to purchase Burgmann Village 2025.
