In January, we partnered with local historical group The Blackheath Society to run a very special Wollstonecraft Late Talk* on pioneering architect Teresa Forrest. A former Blackheath High parent, Teresa began her career at prominent architectural firm Gibberd’s, where she worked on Hull College’s Queen’s Gardens building and the Metropolitan Cathedral project in Liverpool among others. She went on to establish a highly successful architecture practice in Blackheath – an astonishing achievement for a woman in the 1970s.  

After retirement, Teresa became a prolific embroiderer, using her architectural training and knowledge to create incredibly intricate, beautifully conceived cityscapes. Local architect Ana Sutherland joined us to explore the fascinating interplay between art and architecture found in Teresa’s extraordinary body of work, from astonishingly detailed architectural structures to entire cities crafted from thread.  

We were extremely lucky to be joined by Teresa herself, who now lives in Somerset. Teresa – a force of nature at 91 years old - answered some very detailed questions about her techniques, the time investment in her pieces (some have taken her up to 15 months to complete!) and her sources of inspiration. 

Teresa is also the founder of the Lucy Forrest Scholarship, created to honour her daughter and Blackheath High student, Lucy whose bright future was tragically cut short in 1985. Many alumnae, friends of Lucy and locals who knew Teresa from the 1970s to the 1990s came along to the event and we had a great time celebrating her work and the scholarship fund, which has benefited more than 75 girls to date. We also sold copies of Teresa’s latest book, ‘Amazing Embroideries’, raising money for the Lucy Forrest Scholarship and ensuring Lucy’s legacy lives on for another generation of gifted students. 

We are so grateful to Teresa, Ana and the Blackheath Society for this fascinating, moving talk. 

About the Wollstonecraft Lates & Speaker Series  

The Wollstonecraft Lates & Wollstonecraft Speaker Series, named after writer, philosopher and women’s right advocate Mary Wollstonecraft, form part of our Futures programme for Blackheath High Senior School students. Speakers from a wide range of backgrounds join us to stimulate intellectual curiosity and critical thinking, and to help students develop the skills they will need for whatever their future holds.  

The Wollstonecraft Late Series invites local experts in to explore and share their own passions with our wider community. For the last few years, we have partnered with renowned historical group the Blackheath Society, using their expertise and connections to host some fascinating talks – including on Blackheath High alumna and fashion icon Mary Quant; the enigmatic Mary Evans Picture Library; and the incredible work of local artist and alumna Jean Cooke RA.