15 & 16 July. A two day event exploring the power, politics and prejudice of dirt with a series of tales of life and death as well as discussions on grime throughout history.

‘Dirt’ has long been a potent label for deviance and taboo, applied to people and social groups who dare to transgress society’s boundaries. The physical becomes metaphorical, as those associated with sanitary waste, refuse and disease are linked to contamination of a more moral kind. Often this stigma has extreme consequences for the health and wellbeing of so-called ‘dirty’ people. But where does this powerful stigma come from? And what is it like to be regarded by the world as morally contaminated?

Friday: Storytelling - 19:00 - 21:00

The UK’s premier storytellers, the Crick Crack Club, will enchant you with myths and metaphors spanning life, death and dirt. Then get to know your fellow guests over complimentary drinks and view the Dirt exhibition away from the crowds.

Saturday: Talks and Discussions - 10:30 - 17:30

Join authors and experts as they explore dirt, health and related sciences in a series of fascinating talks. Our speakers include ‘Dirt’ curator Kate Forde, writer and broadcaster Steven Connor, anthropologist Maureen Bloom, Belle de Jour blogger Brooke Magnanti, and epidemiologist Elizabeth Pisani.