Book launch & art exhibition: Simon Grennan’s Drawing in Drag by Marie Duval at Chetham’s Library

Artist, author and graphic novelist Simon Grennan launches his new book Drawing in Drag by Marie Duval with an exhibition of selected drawings at Chetham’s Library. Based on an illustrated Victorian novel from Chetham’s extensive collection, the new book explores the work of illustrator Marie Duval, who only published work under male pseudonyms during her lifetime. Reimagining Duval’s work, Grennan adopts her name to produce drawings in drag as a woman. At this free launch event, Grennan will discuss his new book with fashion historian Christopher Breward, exploring the themes of social and sexual identity. Breward is Director of Collection and Research at the National Galleries of Scotland and Visiting Professor of Cultural History at the University of Edinburgh. The event is free, but booking is recommended. Those interested in this event may also like to check out Strange Perfume – a queer book fair, including workshops, music and more taking place on Saturday 13 October. Click here to read our preview. This event is in association with the artist book publisher, Book Works.

Fri 12 Oct (launch) then Sat 13 – Fri 19 Oct, Chetham’s Library, Long Millgate, Manchester M3 1SB, Tel: 0161 711 0401, Fri 6-8pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm, Mon-Fri timed entry on the hour between 10am and 4pm inclusive, FREE, www.chethams.org.uk