How did their collaboration come about, who did what, and how did one family’s experiences widen out, to tell this universal human story of suffering and creativity in dark times?
Join artist and poet Sophie Herxheimer and filmmaker Sarah Gavron for a conversation about their newly published graphic novel, 'Ode to Joy' (Pushkin Press, 2026).
Sophie and Sarah will discuss the inspiration they found in art from the period, including the work of some extraordinary characters who appear in the book, and their peers. Sophie will bring and show many of her original pages, and share the thinking behind her inventive techniques, which range from papercut to potato print, recycled period text in torn and layered collage – to the creation of a colour palette, ink drawing and calligraphy. Hear how these two artists, whose work across different media has dramatic image-making at its core, made the decisions that allowed for this essential story to find its true expression.
This lecture is part of our ongoing Creative Conversations series; dialogues between artists, curators and writers. Curated by Dr Claudia Tobin, lectures are held Wednesday evenings either at the Royal Drawing School or online.
Please arrive at 6.30pm to be seated in the studio, for a 7pm start. Please note this event is taking place in person at the Royal Drawing School and tickets are limited.
