Research
Research at Kettle’s Yard
Kettle’s Yard, part of the University of Cambridge, is a leading modern and contemporary art gallery, and a unique house with a remarkable collection of twentieth-century art. From 1957 to 1973 Kettle’s Yard was the home of Jim and Helen Ede. Preserved virtually unchanged since their departure, today the house displays the Edes’ diverse collection of art, ceramics, textiles, furniture and natural objects.
Research at Kettle’s Yard is rooted in our work of preserving and interpreting our collection of twentieth century and contemporary artworks, natural objects and decorative arts, as well as the unique architectural and interior spaces in which they are placed. Exhibitions-related research in the fields of twentieth-century and contemporary art comprises a related strand of activity, and research also shapes and is developed from our innovative learning and community programmes. Research undertaken at or in partnership with Kettle’s Yard is disseminated through exhibitions and events, community engagement, through print publications and via our website.
There should be a Kettle’s Yard in every university.
— Jim Ede, 1984
Research Projects
Find out more about past and ongoing research projects happening at Kettle’s Yard, including within the house and collection, exhibitions and community and learning work.
Using the Archive
The archive at Kettle’s Yard contains Jim Ede’s personal papers, as well as letters from many artists including Helen Sutherland, Alfred Wallis and Ben Nicholson. The papers document the wide range of influences throughout Ede’s life, from his experience of World War I to the development of Kettle’s Yard and its collections.
If you have queries about the archive, or would like to make an appointment to consult items, please email collections@kettlesyard.cam.ac.uk.
Explore the House and Collection
Kettle’s Yard was the home of Jim and Helen Ede from 1957 to 1973. It contains their diverse collection of art, ceramics, textiles, furniture and natural objects. You can find out more about the Kettle’s Yard house and collection on our website. Explore our resources ReCollection and A Handful of Objects or look for artworks on our collection database.
Past Exhibitions
Community Special Projects
