In an exciting collaboration between academia and automotive history, New College, Oxford, has commissioned world-renowned British sculptor Paul Day to create a unique work of art that will celebrate the College’s pivotal role in the birth of the MG marque. This monumental sculpture, set to be unveiled in the summer of 2026, will immortalise the origins of MG, one of Britain’s most iconic motoring brands.
Located in a charming courtyard garden behind the Longwall Street building—where William Morris and Cecil Kimber founded Morris Garages (MG) in May 1924—the sculpture will mark the site where the legendary MG Octagon trademark was first registered. A nod to Oxford’s enduring contribution to automotive innovation, this work will not only highlight the College’s historical importance but also its connection to the passionate pursuit of automotive excellence.
Miles Young, Warden of New College, notes, “New College’s remarkable history stretches back to 1379, but this sculpture will commemorate a more recent chapter in our legacy. It will recognise the College’s association with William Morris and Cecil Kimber—two visionaries who were integral to modern British car design and played a key role in transforming Oxford into a thriving centre of vehicle manufacturing. We believe their achievements deserve permanent recognition, and this extraordinary sculpture will stand as a lasting tribute to their pioneering work.”
A Sculptor with Personal Ties to MG
Paul Day, known for his impressive body of work including the Battle of Britain Monument and the iconic Meeting Place at St. Pancras Station, has an especially personal connection to this commission. Not only is he a lifelong motoring enthusiast, but his family has deep ties to the MG marque. His father, a passionate MG aficionado, worked closely with University Motors, one of the most renowned MG dealerships, which had a prominent location in Mayfair.
For Paul, this commission is a powerful way to reconnect with cherished memories of his childhood and the evocative world of MG sports cars. “Some of my fondest memories are of my father driving the MG cars that he either owned or were associated with University Motors. Growing up around these remarkable vehicles left an indelible mark on me. This sculpture represents a chance to honour that rich family legacy and relive many happy, emotional moments tied to MG,” Paul shares.
A Vision in Bronze
While the grand sculpture is still taking shape in Paul Day’s studio in Burgundy, a limited-edition collection of 50 small bronzes, each capturing the central motif of a driver at the wheel, is now available to collectors. These stunning miniature sculptures echo the same dynamic energy and spirit of adventure that defined MG’s early days, and they offer art lovers a unique opportunity to own a piece of this historic tribute before the larger installation is revealed.
Paul Day’s small bronzes have earned acclaim for their detailed craftsmanship and emotional depth, making them highly desirable to collectors. With only 50 pieces available, these works are expected to become prized treasures for those with an appreciation for fine art, motoring history, and the lasting influence of MG on British automotive culture.
Celebrating a Legacy of Innovation
Guy Pigounakis, Commercial Director at MG Motor UK, expresses his enthusiasm for the project: “This sculpture will serve as a fitting tribute to the pioneering days of MG. Cecil Kimber’s visionary leadership and William Morris’s bold support laid the foundation for one of Britain’s most influential sports car companies. The imagery Paul Day has created in his early sketches captures the very essence of this groundbreaking era when MG began to take shape and affordable British sports cars became synonymous with adventure.”
The original Morris Garages showroom, which housed MG’s early operations, now forms part of New College. The College has preserved key architectural features, including the iconic double doors visible on Longwall Street. In honour of Cecil Kimber, the College has also named a new wing facing the courtyard after him, ensuring the legacy of both Kimber and MG remains embedded in the heart of Oxford.
MG’s Second Century and a New Era of Mobility
As MG approaches its second century, the company is redefining itself as a leader in the electric vehicle (EV) market. Renowned for producing accessible, efficient, and enjoyable-to-drive electric vehicles, MG continues to build on the spirit of innovation and excellence that marked its beginnings nearly 100 years ago. The commissioning of Paul Day’s sculpture is not only a celebration of the past but a recognition of MG’s ongoing commitment to shaping the future of motoring.
Enquiries regarding the limited-edition bronzes can be made to Mark Curtis at [email protected].
