On A Viola D’Amore

We Met As Strangers

2020

We Met as Strangers is the title of one of Mathilde Blind’s many poems, it is also reflective of how this project began. Shortly before the nationwide lockdown we (Katie Eleanor – an artist and Dr Maryanne Saunders – a researcher and writer) stumbled upon Blind’s grave at the St Pancras and Islington Cemetery in London. The ethereal stone angels caught our attention and as we began to learn about the woman commemorated we realised that Blind – with her boldness, unorthodoxy and unashamed longing, was a perfect companion for times ahead. Join us on this journey as we respond to and interact with her poetry and life.