The Festival of Britain ‘A Tonic for the Nation’

Sophie Hollinshead


Regions:
Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, Lincolnshire
Notice Period:
Short (maybe less than one month's notice)
Type:
Professional
Fee:
Unknown
Category:
History
Updated:
6th February 2025

The Festival of Britain in 1951 provided a much-needed dose of colour, excitement and fun in post-war Britain. At the end of World War Two an exhibition was proposed that would commemorate the Great Exhibition of 1851 and provide a ‘tonic to the Nation’ and a welcome break from austerity, it was an opportunity to re-define ‘Britishness’ and engender a sense of national identity, and most importantly re-asserting Britain’s role as a manufacturing nation after the war.

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About Sophie Hollinshead

I currently work for Nottingham City Councils Museums Service, having previously been a lecturer in interdisciplinary Humanities at the University of Nottingham for 20+ years. My research interests are primarily in the field of landscape and culture, and my PhD explored the transformatory potential of landscape on the individual. The impact, influences, and traditions of place are what interest me most. I am particularly interested in the landscapes and traditions of the East Midlands, their history, folklore and heritage. The impact, influences, traditions, and spirit(s) of place are what inspire me. In addition to my interest in landscape I have undertaken extensive research into the 1951 Festival of Britain and into the history of the plotlands and prefabricated buildings of the Lincolnshire Coast .

Having worked in higher, adult, and further education I have experience of tailoring material to large and small groups and can adapt to different experience and knowledge levels. I am happy to deliver informal talks, lectures, or academic seminars. All talks are supported by high quality PowerPoint presentations.


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