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Clarissa, Hero and Leander, Self Portrait, Illustration for Frankenstein by Mary Shelley (first known). Drawing room at Holst Victorian House.
Holst Victorian House, the birthplace of celebrated composer Gustav Holst, is inviting Chamber of Commerce members to support a significant exhibition of Theodor von Holst’s work.
The great-uncle of Gustav Holst, Theodor von Holst was a nineteenth-century British Gothic-Romantic artist. A student at the Royal Academy, he was a major influence on the Pre-Raphaelites, although he died before receiving proper recognition in his lifetime. Today, Theodor von Holst is being reappraised. Several of his works are now in major collections, such as The Bride on display at Tate Britain, indicating his relevance and resonance with a modern audience.
Opening in October 2026 and running through to May 2027, the exhibition will be held in the museum’s Victorian Drawing Room, where the current display of twelve works will be augmented with loaned paintings and drawings currently in private collections and not usually available for public viewing. The exhibition will be accompanied by a private view, a programme of talks and workshops, and an original brochure with reproductions of the paintings.
As a local charity and independent museum, Holst Victorian House is inviting Chamber of Commerce members to explore opportunities to support the exhibition and help bring this significant cultural event to audiences across Cheltenham and beyond.
Benefits for partner organisations could include:
- Association with a distinctive cultural programme expected to attract an affluent local, national and international audience
- Prominence across exhibition marketing and media communications from announcement this summer through to the exhibition closing in May 2027.
- Recognition within the exhibition brochure – a premium companion publication for visitors to enjoy while exploring the exhibition and to take home as a permanent keepsake
- Opportunities for private group tours, staff engagement and the potential to host invited guests at a drinks reception in a unique historic setting
- Demonstrable social value through supporting Cheltenham’s cultural and heritage offer
If you are interested in exploring involvement, we would be delighted to welcome you to Holst Victorian House for a complimentary guided visit with our co-chair and curator to share more about the exhibition and discuss how a partnership could work.
To arrange a visit or express your interest, please contact co-chairs Steve Leary and Martin Renshaw via
enquiries@holstvictorianhouse.org.uk.
