Cancelled: Lauren Elkin & Will Gompertz: Unleashing the Art Monsters

Step into the world of art and culture with a captivating discussion between two of the most insightful voices in contemporary art criticism — Lauren Elkin and Will Gompertz. This event promises to be an inspiring exploration of creativity, rebellion and the evolving role of art in society.

Lauren Elkin, acclaimed author of Art Monsters: Unruly Bodies in Feminist Art, delves into the lives and works of female artists who have defied the conventions of their time, challenging the boundaries of art and society. In Art Monsters, Elkin explores how these women have used their bodies and their art to resist and redefine what it means to be an artist, pushing against the constraints of the male-dominated art world.

Joining her is Will Gompertz, the esteemed art critic and former BBC arts editor, now serving as the director of Sir John Soane’s Museum, having been at the helm of the Barbican Centre. With a career dedicated to making art accessible and engaging for all, Gompertz offers his unique perspective on the state of contemporary art, the importance of artistic rebellion and the ways in which art continues to shape and reflect our world.

Together, Elkin and Gompertz will discuss the power of art to challenge societal norms, the role of the artist as a disruptor, and the ongoing battle for creative freedom. They will explore the intersections of art, gender, and politics, and how these forces converge to create the "art monsters" who refuse to be tamed by tradition.

Gain insights into the lives and works of revolutionary artists who have redefined the boundaries of art and culture and discover how art continues to serve as a powerful tool for challenging societal norms and inspiring change.

Join us for a dynamic conversation that celebrates the unruly, the unconventional, and the unstoppable force of art.

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Folkestone Book Festival is our annual celebration of books, ideas, reading and writing in many magical forms. This year's festival has been curated by award-winning author and journalist Sophie Haydock. Sophie is our new Curator: Books, Ideas and Community.

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This year's festival is for everyone and we want to make it possible for more people than ever before to be able to come together and enjoy a packed festival. To make this possible we have introduced a £5 ticket. This is a no questions asked ticket for those that may be struggling to afford events and performances.

Or grab a festival pass and enjoy the whole festival for just £140. Click here to book your festival pass

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We thank our sponsors Eurotunnel, Friends of the Folkestone Book Festival and our Education Partner Canterbury Christ Church University for making this year's festival possible.

Creative Folkestone is also supported by Arts Council England, Folkestone and Hythe District Council, Kent County Council and The Roger De Haan Charitable Trust.