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Norman Cornish honoured by University of Sunderland.

Norman Cornish will receive an Honorary Doctorate of Arts in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the arts, and in particular, in support of the mining community.

Norman began working in the mines in 1933 aged only 14.  At aged 15 he joined the famous Pitman’s Academy and began painting and drawing the world around him, eventually becoming a celebrated artist.  His vivid paintings of ordinary life feature both realism and a nostalgic look at a world that no longer exists outside of his canvases. To this day, aged 92, he continues to chronicle the everyday lives of the people of Spennymoor.

The week-long graduation ceremonies, beginning July 9, are an opportunity for graduates to celebrate their success with friends, family and loved ones.

University Vice-Chancellor Professor Peter Fidler says: "Our honoraries have all made highly significant contributions within their fields and will inspire our graduates as they celebrate their academic success and embark on their careers. We look forward to welcoming them and are proud to pay tribute to them."