We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who joined us at the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum on Friday 24 October, for a very special artist talk and Q&A. It was a memorable evening of conversation, reflection and connection, centred around Monument to the Vanquished Peasant by Leah Gordon.

The event brought together artist and writer Leah Gordon, author and image collector Stephen Ellcock, and actor Maxine Peake, who led the discussion with warmth and insight. Together they explored the themes and creative process behind Leah’s solo exhibition, delving into the lasting impact of the enclosure acts and the loss of the commons. The conversation invited us to think deeply about how histories of eviction, loss of rights, quashed rebellions and widespread displacement continue to shape the systems and politics that define our lives today.

We were also delighted to highlight Leah’s recent article in The Big Issue, “Here’s why we need to fight for Britain’s right to roam,” in which she reflects on how under 10 % of England retains a right of access to land and how the memory of the commons lives on in our connection to place.

The talk also offered a chance to reflect on the exhibition’s wider context, including a special display by Stephen Ellcock and objects from the collection of the Museum of English Rural Life. After the panel discussion and Q&A, guests enjoyed a self-guided tour of the exhibition that rounded off the evening beautifully.

Our sincere thanks go to Leah Gordon, Stephen Ellcock and Maxine Peake for their generous contributions, and to everyone who came along to share in this thought-provoking and inspiring event.

This event was part of Monument to the Vanquished Peasant (3 October 2025 – 25 January 2026), a solo exhibition by artist and writer Leah Gordon, commissioned by Meadow Arts and presented at the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum, in partnership with Coventry Biennial. The Commoners were commissioned and supported by Meadow Arts and GRAIN Projects. 

Photos by Tegen Kimbley.