Following his success during this year’s History Festival, historian and author Adrian Barlow will repeat his sell-out illustrated talk about Victorian stained glass artist and designer, Charles Eamer Kempe. Adrian will discuss the life of Kempe as well as his work here in the Cathedral at 12noon on Thursday 4 October in the newly restored Lady Chapel, a beautiful setting in which to absorb the history of Kempe and his work.
Adrian, whose new biography of the artist was launched at a special reception in the Cathedral in September, uncovers the events that shaped Kempe’s life and shows how they resonate strongly in the stained glass of the Cathedral. He notes: “Kempe’s career in stained glass began at Gloucester, but the full story of his association with the city begins with a tragedy that shocked the Cathedral and the local community while he was still a schoolboy.”
Kempe’s distinctive style can be seen throughout Gloucester Cathedral, predominantly in the North and South Transepts but also in the Lady Chapel and Nave. Following the talk guests will be able to take in the Kempe windows at their leisure with a self-guided map. Cathedral Guides will be on hand to advise if needed.
Visitors are advised to book their tickets soon to avoid disappointment.
Pre-booking is essential. Tickets £7.00, available from the Cathedral Gift Shop in person, by calling Three Choirs Box Office on 01452 768928 or on the Three Choirs Website
