BARNSLEY Civic have commissioned the work of three artists to explore the legacy of Maurice Dobson.
In association with the Maurice Dobson Museum in Darfield, and as part of LGBTQ History Month, the three local artists will be producing pieces over the next few months before a showcase in June.
Two of the artists – Rebekah Higginbotham and Simon Beech – were recently given a tour of the museum by poet Ian McMillan. Christopher Goggs, who is the third artist to receive a commission, has also visited the museum.
Maurice and his partner Fred Halliday lived together as an openly gay couple from the early 1950s until Fred’s death in 1988, a time when homosexuality was still illegal and posed the threat of a prison sentence.
Jason White, creative engagement manager at the Civic, said: “The trip to the museum was that initial chance for the artists to explore, research stories and objects and see which parts of Maurice’s story connected with each of them.
“We have a painter, a poet and a graphic designer, so each could take the project in completely different directions. We’re excited to see how they celebrate Maurice’s life and legacy.”
