Norton Lecture Five: Grenfell

2025-26 Norton Professor of Poetry: Steve McQueen

Discussants: Edward Daffarn, former Grenfell Tower resident and activist; Patricia Kingori, Oxford University

Moderator: Gary Younge, Manchester University

In December 2017, Steve McQueen made an artwork in response to the fire that took place earlier that year on 14 June at Grenfell Tower in North Kensington, West London. 72 people died in the tragedy. Filming the tower before it was covered with hoarding, McQueen sought to create a record so that it would not be forgotten.

Steve McQueen: “I feared once the tower was covered up, it would only be a matter of time before it faded from the public’s memory. In fact, I imagine there were people who were counting on that being the case. I was determined that it never be forgotten. So, my decision was made for me. Remember.”

Shot from a helicopter in a single 24-minute take, the artwork approaches the building from the outskirts of the city. For further information about the work, visit grenfell.film.

After a presentation of the film, the panel will discuss the effects of the tragedy and the role of art as an act of remembrance.

This is the fifth of six Norton Lectures with Steve McQueen. For all Lecture dates and information, click here.

Admission is FREE; tickets are required. Tickets can be obtained through the Harvard Box Office. Seating is first come, first served. Limit of four tickets per person. Tickets valid until 5:45pm.

Tickets will be available in advance one week prior to each lecture starting at noon online, in person at the Smith Campus Center box office, or by phone. Handling fees apply for online and phone sales. Tickets also available in person at Sanders Theatre starting two hours prior to each lecture, subject to availability.

Free parking for all six Norton Lectures is available at the Broadway Garage, located at 7 Felton Street, between Broadway and Cambridge Streets. Parking is from one hour pre-performance to one hour post. More info at Parking & Directions.