Take part in a free event dedicated to Manchester’s Women, such as Margaret Ashton, who are specifically associated with The Portico Library and who celebrate Protest, Democracy and Freedom of Speech.

The Portico Library opened its doors in 1806 to male only members. Certain women were allowed to join after 1870, following the Married Women’s Property Act. Information about the featured female members will be provided to assist you in learning more about these outstanding women.

Spend an afternoon being tutored in creating a portrait or sketch and to write a short imaginary piece about what one of these women was like as a child/young person that made them into the person they became. We also plan to have a live model so that you learn how to interpret from real life as these women would have sat for portraits.

All abilities welcome.