About this Event
A GLIMPSE AT THE LIFE OF WILLIAM ROBINSON, AND THE ART OF CONCEALING ART
Irishman William Robinson (1838-1935), acclaimed as the original ‘wild gardener’, had a profound influence on gardening in Britain and beyond, in the late 19th century, and his ideas still resonate today. Gardener, journalist, editor, publisher, author of The Wild Garden and The English Flower Garden, he was a natural disrupter who made enemies as easily as he made influential friends. Yet this very public, pugnacious, figure was a deeply private man.
His silence about the first 23 years of his life in Ireland left many questions unanswered, and his querulous character became a caricature. In his heart he was an artist intent on getting ‘as near the visible beauty of things as it is possible for the artist to go.’
In this talk Judith Nesbitt sheds light on his craving for wild beauty and variety in nature, his mission to get the nation growing food, his anger at the waste of resources and human potential.
Living in Sussex, Judith Nesbitt became fascinated by William Robinson’s story through visiting Gravetye Manor, his home and estate for fifty years, and gave up her museum career to research and write a new biography. As Chief Curator at Tate Britain (2000-2010) and Director of National & International Partnerships (2010-2020) she curated and programmed exhibitions at Tate and beyond. Her curiosity about creative lives and personalities brings insight to Robinson’s visual approach to the world around him.
This ticket is for an ONSITE, live event at Cowcross Street, price £10.00 (Gardens Trust members price £8). Online ticket sales close 4 hours before the event but you may also pay by card on the day. Doors open at 7.00 pm. The talk starts at 7.30 pm.
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Image: ©Gravetye Manor
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
The Gallery, 77 Cowcross Street, London, United Kingdom
GBP 8.00 to GBP 10.00
