Darwin's Granddaughters: Readings and Reminisces

CAMBRIDGE, U.K. - May 20, 2013 - PRLog -- UNITED KINGDOM
Gwen Raverat and Frances Cornford. Two extraordinary artistic talents from one legendary Cambridge family. Next month, Heffers is to host a special evening of readings and reminisces to celebrate their lives and achievements.

As the 50th anniversary of Darwin College dawns, the spotlight returns once more to the great man himself. And his slew of talented descendants. Including, the internationally acclaimed artist, Gwen Raverat and her cousin, the renowned poet, Frances Cornford. Though they never actually met their grandfather, his presence loomed large in their lives and they enjoyed all the privileges of their connection.

The pair were raised in Cambridge amidst a flourishing network of aunts, uncles and cousins. They came of age during a period of unprecedented change. Not least the emancipation of women and the transformation of the arts,  from which they benefitted.  Gwen was among the first women to attend art school in the UK (the Slade in 1908) and went on to pioneer the modern wood engraving movement. Whilst Frances is now recognised as one of Britain's most important poets.  

Though they each practiced different disciplines, their work holds many parallels. Moreover their beloved home-town features prominently in both their art. Raverat's images of Cambridge and Cornford's lyrical references to it, help define our perception of the city in the early 20th century.

Gwen Raverat's grandson, William Pryor - Director of the Raverat Archive (the online collection of her works) says:
“Gwen and Frances derived much inspiration from Cambridge. It is where they spent their formative years and also where they became involved with Rupert Brooke's Neo-Pagans. This had a profound and lasting effect on their artistic pursuits. I'm thrilled to be sharing their stories at Heffers, a stone's throw from my grandmother's childhood home, which is now part of Darwin College; an institution nearing a significant milestone. It feels like the stars have aligned.”

Join William and, actress, Anne Harvey on 12th June for a unique insight into the lives of these two influential artists. As they explore themes of family, home, art and privilege.  With readings from Raverat's childhood memoir Period Piece: A Cambridge Childhood; and Virginia Woolf and The Raverats; plus poetry from Frances Cornford.

Ticket price: £6 (with £3 redeemable against any book purchased on the night).
To buy tickets: Call the credit card booking line on 01223 463220. Alternatively, tickets can be purchased in store.