The Arts Society Haslemere will host Dr Susan Kay-Williams for a lecture on Tuesday, November 19 at 2pm at Haslemere Hall.

Titled Imperial Purple to Denim Blue: The Colourful History of Textiles, the talk will delve into the fascinating evolution of dyes, their discovery, and their cultural significance throughout history.

Dr Kay-Williams will trace the history of textiles from pre-historic times to the mid-19th century, exploring how dyes were made and used across Europe, the Middle East, India, Turkey, North America, Mexico, and Peru. The lecture will uncover the social, political, and economic implications of colour, touching on topics such as war, exploration, religion, money, and even sex.

With extensive experience in the not-for-profit sector, Dr Kay-Williams has held roles including the first head of marketing for Girlguiding and chief executive of Garden Organic. She has led the Royal School of Needlework (RSN) since 2007, overseeing major commissions including the hangings at Dover Castle, the wedding dress of the Princess of Wales, and an Oscars dress for Naomie Harris.

Dr Kay-Williams, author of The Story of Colour in Textiles (2013), will also share insights from her most recent work, The Royal School of Needlework: 150 Years (2022).

Tickets for this unmissable event are available from Haslemere Hall.