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Jewish painter Gluck recognised as LGBTQ icon

Historic England to preserve home of lesbian artist known as Gluck

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Historic England is to honour a Jewish painter as a 20th century LGBTQ icon.

Hannah Gluckstein is among 15 influential figures to be recognise by the heritage organisation in an initiative timed to mark 50 years since homosexuality was decriminalised.

Born in 1895, she was the only daughter of Joseph Gluckstein, one of the founders of the British restaurant chain J Lyons and Co.

In 1915, shortly after a painting trip to Cornwall, she cut her hair and began wearing men’s clothing - from then on she insisted on being known only as Gluck.

When one art society once referred to her as Miss Gluck, she was furious and threatened to resign as a member.

Gluck’s self-portrait was recently used as the poster image for an exhibition at Tate Britain which marked the 50th anniversary of the 1967 Sexual Offences Act which partially decriminalised male homosexuality in England and Wales.

Throughout her life the artist had several relationships with high-profile women of her time.

Historic England welcomed the initiative, which will re-ilst Gluck's Sussex home.

Heritage Minister John Glen said: “It is vital that we remember all the communities that have shaped our past.

“I am delighted that we are recognising the significant contribution made by these outstanding people and protecting the places where they lived and worked for future generations.”

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