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The role of historic houses in the 21st Century: York hosts Chatsworth lecture

Posted on 19 November 2014

Matthew Hirst, Head of Arts and Historic Collections at Chatsworth, will give the second biennial Yorkshire Country House Partnership lecture on 26 November at the University of York.

The lecture, The Past Informs the Future: Chatsworth and the Devonshire Collection in 2014, will explore Chatworth’s evolving role over the centuries, recent programmes of restoration and innovative ways of presenting Chatsworth to diverse audiences.

As Chatsworth was one of the first houses to present contemporary art in an historic context, Matthew Hirst will examine the challenges of balancing tradition with modern expectations, and investigate the role of temporary exhibitions. He will also discuss new partnerships with academic institutions, in terms of expanding research programmes and enhancing understanding of collections.

Christopher Ridgway, Curator at Castle Howard and Chair of the Yorkshire Country House Partnership, said: “These lectures are designed to present a range of perspectives on what we understand by the country house today. Chatsworth presents a remarkable example of how to marry past understanding with contemporary interpretation, and shows just how versatile a house can be in this day and age.”

The lecture will take place on Wednesday 26 November at 6.30pm at the Bowland Auditorium, Berrick Saul Building, University of York. Admission is free and open to all, and the event will be followed by a drinks reception.

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