The Launch of Mary Gillick: Sculptor and Medallist

Friends, British Museum colleagues and members of the Gillick family joined Spink staff and author Philip Attwood – remotely! – to celebrate the publication of his book on the iconic but sorely neglected sculptor Mary Gillick, best known for the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II that appeared on UK coins from the beginning of her reign until decimalisation in 1971.

Sadly the author, who had been isolating due to Covid, was still testing positive on the afternoon of the party, but thanks to the miracles of modern technology our brilliant IT department arranged for him to join the party via video link, where he gave a fascinating talk on Gillick and was able to chat to guests remotely (with glass of wine in hand), showing guests some of his own medal collection in the background!

Kathy Smith, Gillick’s great-niece – who remembers her aunt well from childhood visits to her studio – also spoke eloquently about Gillick’s legacy, and the importance of remembering her work in the context of her ground-breaking work as a female artist. All in all it was a very happy evening, with delicious Blanc de Blancs supplied by Gusbourne wines; guests were also able to view our Jubilee exhibition as they mingled, including of course items from the Gillick family archive.