JACK Dickson, a member of the art department at Bryanston School, Blandford, was featured on a recent edition of Bill Bailey’s BBC series Extraordinary Portraits. The programme featured Jack’s portrait of a remarkable, life-saving, railway worker, Rizwan Javed.

East Londoner Rizwan, who works for London Underground, has saved 29 people from taking their own lives over the past eight years. He has been awarded the MBE for this work.

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, with the comedian and presenter, Bill Bailey, to watch as 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 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 even heard. Jack responded: “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.