To See Clearly: Why Ruskin Matters by Dr Suzanne Fagence Cooper

In the first of our House of Life online talks, Dr Suzanne Fagence Cooper reflects on John Ruskin as artist, thinker, polemicist and environmental campaigner. Delving into his travels, love of Turner and his fated relationship with Effie Gray, this talk speaks of Ruskin as a necessary inspiration and guide.

[@malc.s.5373]

I have several heroes/heroines, but John Ruskin is at the top of the list by a spiritual mountain mile. I am no academic, but have digested many of his books and learned from all. When I explain his importance to our modern day world, people say.."but he was just a poet" some knew he was an art critic...but little else. He was attacked by the press because he challenged the establisment. Yet his incredible vision and worldly knowledge outshone the dull industrialists and egotistical politicians of his day.

[@JimiHendrix998]

Ruskin has been disgracefully portrayed imho by hollywood and represented by supposedly educated people who really should know better. Thank you for a fine lecture about a brilliant, caring and deeply sensitive polymath whose Brantwood house and grave in Coniston churchyard deserves a visit.

[@malc.s.5373]

I agree totally, and Brantwood is special.

[@michaelarnold7503]

Years ago, when the actor Edward Fox was of the appropriate age, I thought he would have been a good choice to represent Ruskin on film.

[@abilenechristianuniversity7326]

I am deeply grateful for this erudite and illuminating lecture. It serves as an excellent complement to my recent reading (and, indeed, prompt re-reading) of John Dixon Hunt's biography of Ruskin. That work, understandably, was unable to incorporate the wealth of well-selected visual images your fine presentation has provided. I hope and trust that other Ruskin enthusiasts will benefit from its having here been made available. Many thanks for a memorable tribute to an unforgettable Victorian!

[@mrmink]

Tremendous lecture. Info I haven't heard in other online lectures, both about Ruskin's relationships and his art.

[@BizRasam]

Thank you, really!

[@nancypeiffer6427]

Thank you. I really enjoyed your lecture.

[@gillianfarago4496]

Very interesting, thank you 😊