Charlotte grew up in Birmingham with a passion for making cultural heritage accessible and engaging. Having read History at the University of Oxford, she is currently completing a Masters in Art History and Curating at the University of Birmingham.
She has worked across arts, heritage and cultural institutions, from being Curatorial Assistant at a historic English Manor House to supporting an international independent art dealer as Gallery Assistant. As former Midlands Ambassador for a national arts and cultural platform, she travelled across Europe creating a video series that brought cultural stories to life for online audiences. Charlotte co-curated ‘Fragments of Devotion: A Sensory History of Illuminated Manuscript Cuttings,’ an innovative online exhibition developed in partnership with the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Barber Institute of Fine Arts.
‘I’ve always been interested in country houses and art history, and Chamberlain was such an important patron of the arts; Highbury itself reflects that cultural vision. At the same time, I’m conscious of the complexities of Chamberlain’s wider political and colonial legacy. Birmingham today is a brilliant, multicultural city, and I think it’s vital that Highbury’s trustee board reflects that. We need voices from all backgrounds and ages at the table, and that’s why I wanted to be involved: to help make sure everyone feels Highbury belongs to them, and that we’re preserving this heritage while honestly acknowledging all of it.
I love that Highbury will always be an incredible retreat from the busy goings-on in the city. My favourite part of Highbury is its Arts and Crafts influence. I am always amazed by how Chamberlain worked with architects to create something that was both a family home and a statement of artistic ambition. Beyond the building itself, what inspires me is how Highbury has evolved from the Chamberlain family’s private vision into something that belongs to the whole community. It’s gone from one family’s home to a space where all of Birmingham can gather and feel welcome.’ Charlotte Askew
