The screening will take place at All Saints’ Church, Cambridge, a site where Parr himself painted while working for the renowned decorating firm F. R. Leach & Sons. Blending archival material, contemporary reflections, and an original score, the film brings together Parr’s home, personal motivations, and working life. The original musical score will be performed live by Richard Uttley (piano) and Kinga Wojdalska (viola), a composition inspired by the musical influences of the Arts & Crafts movement.
Following the screening, there will be a Q&A discussion with the film makers. This screening is supported by Birkbeck, University of London. All proceeds from ticket sales go towards paying musicians and supporting David Parr House and All Saints Church.
About the Makers
Dr Victoria Mills – Researcher & Producer
Dr Victoria Mills is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of English, Theatre and Creative Writing at Birkbeck, University of London. She specialises in Victorian art, design, and material culture, with a particular focus on the overlooked contributions of decorative artists and craftsmen. Her research critically re-examines the history of the Arts & Crafts movement, challenging traditional narratives that centre on privileged designers while neglecting the work of the artisans who brought their designs to life. The Man Who Painted His House is part of her British Academy-funded research project on the role of the Victorian ‘art-workman’ in shaping material culture.
Lily Ford – Director
Lily Ford is a filmmaker and historian with a background in visual culture. She is the Associate Director of The Derek Jarman Lab, a research centre for film and media at Birkbeck, University of London, where she works on projects that bring historical research to life through film. Her previous work has explored themes of travel, utopianism, and urban life. In The Man Who Painted His House, she brings together archival materials, contemporary footage, and an atmospheric score to tell the story of David Parr’s artistic legacy.
Richard Uttley – Composer
Richard Uttley is a pianist and composer known for his performances of contemporary classical music. He has a deep interest in interdisciplinary collaboration, working across music, film, and visual art. His compositions often take inspiration from historical themes and artistic movements. For The Man Who Painted His House, he has created a new score for viola and piano, drawing on musical influences from the Arts & Crafts movement to enhance the film’s themes of craftsmanship, creativity, and legacy.
