Colin Ford, a distinguished historian and museum director, is fondly remembered as a most supportive critic whose kindness left a lasting impression on those in the cultural community. His expertise and generosity were evident in a memorable incident from 2006, which highlights his dedication to fostering knowledge and collaboration.
A Memorable Evening at the Women's Library
In 2006, an invitation was extended to speak about Virginia Woolf and Photography at the Women's Library in London. The lecture included a significant portion dedicated to Julia Margaret Cameron, Woolf's great aunt, exploring her profound influences on Woolf's writing and photographic practices. Colin Ford, already recognised as the world expert on Cameron, was present in the audience that evening.
An Act of Extraordinary Kindness
Despite the inclement weather on a wet weekday evening, Colin had made the journey to Whitechapel to attend the talk. The speaker, feeling terrified at the prospect of potentially misconstruing or misrepresenting Cameron's work in front of such an authority, experienced technical difficulties with the slide projector. In a moment of remarkable compassion, Colin carefully removed his suit jacket, took control of the projector, and seamlessly accompanied the lecture, ensuring it proceeded smoothly.
This gesture was not only a testament to his supportive nature but also underscored his commitment to the field of photography and cultural history. Colin Ford's legacy as a mentor and critic continues to inspire those in museums and the arts, reminding us of the importance of kindness and expertise in nurturing intellectual discourse.
