Last week we had the pleasure of being presented with a portrait painted in acrylics of former Norwich High School for Girls Headmistress Dorothy Bartholomew created by talented alumna Gillie Hoyte Byrom. Gillie was inspired to create the portrait of her former Headmistress after visiting school for an alumnae reunion event back in 2023. Gillie writes;

“Dorothy Frances Bartholomew was Headmistress of Norwich High School for Girls GDST from 1954 – 1975 and influenced the lives of hundreds of girls during her time there. I was a pupil at the school from 1960 – 1971 and got to know her quite well as a sixth former and years later when she would come to miniaturist exhibitions in London to view my enamel portraits.”

Gillie is a world renowned enamel painter and miniaturist. As well as teaching she creates enamel paintings for world-wide clientele using traditional skills taught to her in Barcelona.

“I made this likeness to celebrate the school’s 150th anniversary. This was a challenging portrait as there were no colour references to work from except my memory and only a small black and white newspaper photo showing a steady gaze suitable for composition. I aimed to make Miss Bartholomew look ten years younger and in her prime. I changed the flowery blouse she was wearing in the 1970 press photo to a plain one that would harmonise with the Jameson Library at Eaton Grove, Norwich High School where the portrait now hangs.

Dorothy Bartholomew had spirit, determination and a strong sense of purpose, being consistently of firm opinion. She was clever and interesting. In my life-sized portrait of her I have tried to convey these qualities, besides her sense of kindness and warmth.”

The portrait will be unveiled during our forthcoming alumnae drinks event on Tuesday, 11th November from 5.30-7.30pm. Any alumnae interested in attending can find out more and book tickets here.

During our 150th year our school community has truly come together. This special year hasn’t just been marked by events, but with the creation of lasting objects. This skillfully painted portrait by Gillie which honors the 25 years served by Dorothy Bartholomew as Headmistress reflects our enduring heritage and spirit.