This is a project about the ideas of John Ruskin (1819 -1900) the nineteenth century art critic, philanthropist and social thinker. Ruskin's The Elements of Drawing (1857) remains a touchstone for drawing research and is often cited for its core tenet that drawing sharpens visual attention.

This project puts this premise to the test, using it to uncover material ‘clues’ of Ruskin’s life embedded in christening clothes, dress suit, his signature necktie and hat which remain at Brantwood, Ruskin's house for the latter part of his life. It is the first time that these garments have been visually examined through drawing. In response to studying these garments at Brantwood, a series of new large-scale drawings will be produced and exhibited at Brantwood to mark the start of Bicentenary celebrations in 2019.