The Weavers Factory, Online Lecture

Event details

SPAB Autumn Lecture Series 2020: Transformations Part I
Join us this autumn for a series of talks exploring historic buildings and the idea of transformation. Through a mixture of recent projects and current thinking about heritage, sustainability and conservation, we consider physical change and new uses for old buildings on the one hand and, on the other, the power of conservation projects to transform places and communities. We will also look at how new ways of thinking about conservation can transform the way people engage with old buildings and historic places.
 

The Weavers Factory: an "art house" for Saddleworth 
Presented by Nigel Durkan, Curator
19 November 2020, 12:00 - 13:00
Live Online Lecture
£5 pp - SPAB members
£6 pp - Non-members

For 50 years this terraced house in Uppermill, on the outskirts of Manchester, was the home of award-winning textile designer Joan Charnley. But in 2019 it was transformed into the Weavers Factory contemporary gallery by her friends Nigel Durkan and Julian Bovis, who inherited it along with Joan’s hope that it might become an “art house” for the people of Saddleworth.  Dating from 1808 and originally used for weaving, but abandoned when the mechanised textile industry made small-scale production unviable, the building had many uses - from coffin-makers to temperance hotel - before being converted into a house in 1963 by Joan and her artist husband Archibald MacDonald. Curator Nigel Durkan reflects on how the Weavers Factory became an art gallery with a difference - a strong community focus and a showcase for emerging talent - and looks forward to the next stage in its story.

You may also be interested in our other online lectures in the Autumn Lecture Series 2020:
Heritage Declares: a new approach for a changing world, 12 November 2020;
The Repair of Capel Peniel, 26 November 2020.

IT requirements: Please note that this is an online lecture and will be held via a webinar platform. You will be sent instructions on how to join the session the day before the lecture. To participate, all you need is an internet connection, and a laptop, computer or phone with the ability to play video and audio.   

Accessibility: please contact the SPAB before booking to discuss any special access requirements.

Booking Terms & Conditions
 

Image credit: Weavers Factory