Morley College London’s Penny Lecture series off to a great start in 2025

This year’s Penny Lecture spring series at Morley College London had inspiring and engaging speakers, artists, and musicians. The lectures explored themes of personal transformation, artistic innovation, and musical excellence – leaving audiences wanting more. Here’s a look back at three standout events from the series.

Avi Ben Zeev – Calling My Deadname Home: A Trans Journey

As part of LGBT+ History Month, we hosted a moving conversation with Avi Ben Zeev, author, psychologist, and writing coach. Interviewed by Caprice Jackson, tutor at Morley – Avi shared insights from his memoir Calling My Deadname Home, a personal account of gender transition and self-reconciliation.

Avi’s story captivated the audience as he reflected on the challenges of embracing his past while stepping into his future. The discussion explored themes of identity, resilience, and the intersection of gender, sexuality, and professional life. The evening wrapped up with an engaging Q&A session, followed by a book signing where many took the opportunity for a more personal conversation.

Martino Tirimo – The Poetry of Chopin

Music lovers were treated to a lunchtime lecture and recital with Morley advanced piano tutor and renowned pianist Martino Tirimo, who brought Chopin’s compositions to life in the intimate setting of Morley’s Holst Room.  Charting Chopin’s life story and influence on generations of composers, Martino also gave a moving live performance, making this Penny Lecture was truly special.

Tirimo explored the emotional depth and timeless beauty of Chopin’s music, offering a look into the composer’s approach to melody, rhythm, and expression. His renditions of works such as Andante spianato and Grand Polonaise Op. 22 left the audience captivated.

Listen to Martino Tirimo on the Morley Radio here. 

Artistic Journeys Through Glass – In Conversation with Maria Zulueta and Natasha Redina

Art and creativity took centre stage as two glass artists, Maria Zulueta and Natasha Redina, shared their artistic journeys within the Just Glass exhibition at Morley Gallery. Their conversation highlighted the contrasts and connections between sculptural and architectural glass design.

Maria, a senior glass tutor at Morley and a specialist in kiln-formed glass and site-specific installations, spoke about her fascination with the interplay between nature and human influence. 

Maria said “I loved participating in the Penny lecturer series and sharing my 30 year artistic journey with glass to an audience. I wanted to convey my passion as both an artist and educator, hoping to foster curiosity, ignites passion, and encourages others to think critically and pursue learning throughout their lives.”

Natasha, an award-winning stained glass artist,  and former Morley student, discussed how her work merges traditional craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics. Their discussion gave insight into their creative processes, the role of uncertainty in art, and the ways glass can transform an environment. Both are inspired by the their craft and a deep appreciation for the magic of light, colour and form in glass art.

A celebration of learning and creativity

The 2025 Penny Lecture series is a celebration of storytelling, expression, and musical brilliance. 

A huge thank you to all our speakers, artists, and audience members for making this first Penny Lecture’s of the year such a success. 

we’ll soon be  announcing the next series of Penny Lectures – and links to recordings where you can catch up on past lectures.

Keep an eye out for more upcoming events that continue to inspire, educate, and bring our community together.

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