About this Event
After arriving in London from her birthplace in Nottingham at the beginning of the 20th century, Mary Gillick pursued her studies at the Royal College of Arts. She later embarked on a career in commemorative sculpture and design that lasted until the 1960s. Mary, and fellow sculptor husband Ernest, settled in Chelsea where they established their studio in the former stables of the 16th century estate of Sir Thomas More, author of Utopia, on the famous King's Road. While the excitement of two world wars and the cultural revolution that dominated the 1950s and 60s continued around it, the green one acre expanse of Mary's home remained a peaceful oasis where Mary produced one of the iconic portraits of the 20th century.
© Image Courtesy of Ian Foster
The Gillicks played an active part in the Chelsea arts community and Mary's work can still be seen at various local sites including the grounds of their former home.
© Images Courtesy of the Mary Gillick Estate
In 1952, the world's press came to Chelsea to turn a spotlight on the 71 year old artist and her winning design that was chosen to depict the new monarch, HM Queen Elizabeth II, to be featured on the coinage and later on Royal Mail stamps. Now in this Platinum Jubilee year, the softly spoken Mary is once again centre stage as we revisit her special achievements.
The Making An Icon presentation will explore Mary's life and work with a special focus on her time spent in Chelsea at the site of her former home and studio. There will be an exhibition of photographs as well as an opportunity to explore the historic site. There will also be a talk by local historian Ian Foster who has spent several years researching Ernest and Mary Gillick.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
381 King's Rd, 381 King's Road, London, United Kingdom
GBP 0.00