A Look Into the British Regency Period

Jonathan David Gross, an English professor at DePaul University, provided insights tonight for a Westport Arts Center ArtCafe Happy Hour audience into the life of Anne Damer (1748-1828), England’s first significant female sculptor. Gross talked about his new book, “The Life of Anne Damer: Portrait of a Regency Artist.” Damer produced lasting pieces of work at a time when the art of sculpture was largely the domain of male artists. She believed that art could have significant political influence, and that artists must defy conventions and live passionately. Gross noted that in recent years there has been a strong revival of interest in Damer’s life, particularly in gay and lesbian studies due to her famous relationship with author Mary Berry. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Helen Klisser During for WestportNow.com