This talk explores the importance of illustration in the development of new plastic surgery technologies and procedures during and immediately after the war, with particular emphasis on the work of Henry Tonks on facial reconstruction. As the new weaponry and fighting methods of the war produced previously unseen injuries, surgeons were rapidly developing new procedures. Photography, though well-established as a documentary and creative medium by 1914, was not able to capture the intricacies of surgical intervention accurately, partially due to the lack of colour. Several established British artists applied their illustration skills to the challenge, not only supporting the development of life-changing and life-saving surgeries, but producing some of the most haunting portraits of the twentieth century.

Chantal Bradburn trained as an Art Historian, and has taught Art History, Photography and Film in further and higher education. Her research focuses on art made during and between the world wars, and how it reflects the rapidly changing social landscape of the time. She currently works as the Outreach and Widening Participation Manager at the University of Chester, and regularly shares some of the University’s, and Chester’s most fascinating buildings as part of local and national heritage events.

All are welcome to attend the in-person talks free of charge. Booking is encouraged for refreshment and seating purposes and in case there are any last-minute changes (contact details below). Please check the event listings for updates to the programme: www.chester.ac.uk/events (scroll down to see the individual events). Access to the Riverside Museum and event venues is via a flight of steps and lift/step access thereafter. For those with limited mobility, there is an accessible route and please pre-book to arrange this access.fhsc.histsoc@chester.ac.uk or 01244 512126