Whilst Buxton Museum and Art Gallery is closed to the general public for a building inspection, Museum Assistant Isobel Wharton turns her attention to some fantastic artwork you can go and see:

Vivienne and Deggy (with kind permission of the artist)

This picture shows a 13-foot spray painted mural on Chapel Street, Glossop. Painted by local artist Deggy, the mural shows local girl Vivienne Isabel Swire – probably better known to many as Dame Vivienne Westwood (8.4.1941 – 29.12.2022).

Born in nearby Tintwistle, she went to Glossop Grammar School and then her family moved to London. Working as a primary school teacher and feeling that a working class girl could not make a living in the art world, she made and sold jewellery and then met…Malcolm McLaren. They became well known for their contribution to punk fashion and their designs were worn by punk band The Sex Pistols.

Roman bronze and enamel brooch, 2nd century, designed by the Vivienne Westwood of the time, found in Poole’s Cavern, Buxton

In 2012, Vivienne Westwood was chosen as one of the new Elizabethans, a group of 60 people “whose actions during the reign of Queen Elizabeth 11 have had a significant impact on lives in these islands and given the age its character”.

2012 also saw her launch Climate Revolution at the London Paralympics and have her harlequin outfit featured on a Royal Mail stamp. Sir Peter Blake included her in an update of his Sgt Pepper album cover.

Vivienne was awarded an OBE in 1992 and appointed Dame in 2006 for services to British Fashion.