LONDON.- This December, the National Trust’s Fenton House in Hampstead has been transformed by art collective Traces into an immersive, atmospheric experience that delves into the intriguing world of its eighteenth-century residents.

Largely unchanged since it was opened to the public by the National Trust in 1953, Fenton House has been described as a country house in the city, sitting at the top of Holly Hill and surrounded by almost two acres of walled gardens. Now, the house adds to its existing treasure trove of collections with the work of 80 contemporary artists telling the story of the Gee family for this unique threeweek installation.

Visitors will be invited to step into the year 1730 as they explore tales of the Gee family, prominent silk and linen merchants who lived at Fenton House in the period. Wandering through abandoned rooms and unpicking family secrets, visitors will discover the lives, loves and losses of these former inhabitants and their relationships to each other, Georgian London, and the ‘New World’. The story picks up following unexpected family tragedies that create an atmospheric, other-worldly experience far from the London we know today.

Donna Walker, Creative Director of Traces, explains, This art installation brings together months of archival and historical research with the collective creative imagination of the Traces team. We have curated the work of over 60 artists and designers and commissioned 14 new works to reimagine the objects, stories and people here in the 1730s. The result is a multi-sensory experience that traces the building’s history through sights, sounds, smells, textures and tastes.

Award-winning artists and designers include pattern designer Camilla Meijer, product designer Haidee Drew, artist Maisie Broadhead, silversmith David Clarke, food and scent designer AVM Curiosities, and furniture and product designer Gareth Neal. All artworks will be available for purchase.

Creative Director for National Trust London, Joseph Watson, comments, Known for its rich history and inspiring collections the best of contemporary craft, design and art seemed the perfect way to tell this part of Fenton House’s story. Offering an escape from the bustle of Christmas, we are certain visitors will be amazed by the transformation that Traces have brought to this historic London home.