July 11, 2024In memory of George Bernard Kessler CBE

We loved George. From the very beginning of Artichoke’s journey, George was our closest friend and supporter. He bravely visited nearly every one of our projects – come wind, rain or storm, and all while wearing his trademark Issey Miyake. He was unceasingly generous with his time, advice and company.

Being an Artichoke supporter is not always a glamourous experience. From a wintry tour through the hilly streets of Durham for our Lumiere light art biennial, to a soggy boat trip along the Huddersfield canal in the company of giant, musical sheep, George was unwavering in his dedication to the arts and to our rather unorthodox events.

He kept us company on research trips to light festivals in Prague, Eindhoven and Lyon. He brought a unique perspective to bear on the artworks, with his passion for engineering and manufacturing honed through the family business. Lumiere technicians were astonished and delighted as George opened up the projectors and asked insightful, tricky questions about the inner workings of the installations.

His support for the arts extended far beyond Artichoke, with countless organisations from LIFT and Artangel to the National Theatre benefitting from his patronage and friendship. George had an unrivalled collection of theatre programmes as a testament to his years in the stalls.

George spoke to us often of his family and especially his adored daughters Madeleine and Flora, of whom he could not have been prouder. Our thoughts and sympathies are with the family at this time.

Having not exhausted his enthusiasm for adventures with Artichoke, George was the first to book a room in Bedworth in the deep Midlands for our upcoming project Babylon Gamelan this coming September. We will dedicate the event to his memory. He will be greatly missed but never forgotten.