Muriel Pemberton, artist

Who loves Antiques Roadshow? Oh yeah… The jewels are always my favourite thing to see (who are these people who keep these incredible sparklers in their drawers for decades?) but last night I learned about Muriel Pemberton, an artist and teacher who died in the UK in 1993.

Someone had brought along two portraits by her for appraisal and immediately, I wanted to know more about her so what did I do? I Googled for an obit - and I found one! This obit was published by The Independent and it was an ideal way to learn more about an artist I’d never previously heard of but who I now want to gobble up more information.

Muriel Pemberton set her sights on becoming an artist who adored fashion and in 1931, was the first recipient of Diploma in Fashion from the Royal College of Art. Because of her liberating influence, the concept of fashion design was forever altered.

Anyway, what I’m trying to say is that obituaries are a fantastic way to find out more about someone you’ve never heard of! Sadly, I can only fine one obituary, which is a bit disappointing… Maybe I should write to British Vogue and pitch the idea of a better-late-than-never obituary?