Step into the world of new voices at Elizabeth Gaskell’s House with I’ve Never Read Elizabeth Gaskell, a special exhibition showcasing the work of three emerging writers who took part in the House’s first-ever Writers Residency.
To mark the 10th anniversary of the House opening to the public, Georgia Affonso, Princess Arinola Adegbite and Guruleen Kahlo – all under 30 and members of The Writing Squad – were invited to explore Elizabeth Gaskell’s life and home. Although unfamiliar with Gaskell’s work at the start, their time in the House inspired a powerful creative response.
The immersive exhibition is spread throughout the House and features:
- Short stories by Guruleen Kahlo
- An audio play by Georgia Affonso
- Poetry by Princess Arinola Adegbite
Each piece is placed in a location that inspired it, from Elizabeth’s writing desk overlooking the garden to corners of the home that sparked new ideas.
Created in collaboration with The Writing Squad and Manchester City of Literature, this exhibition reflects on what it means to discover a literary legacy – and make it your own.