People

Dorothy and Leonard Elmhirst purchased the Dartington estate in 1925, and initiated the ‘Dartington experiment’, setting up a host of agricultural, educational, and cultural projects.

Since then Dartington has become a magnet for artists, architects, writers, philosophers and musicians from around the world, creating an exceptional centre of creative activity.

Click on the biographies below to explore Dartington Hall’s extraordinary history through some of the inspirational figures who have helped shape it.

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Steve Paxton Obituary 2024

The world of dance, contemporary art and contact improvisation mourns as it bids farewell to Steve Paxton, a visionary and trailblazing artist, writer and dancer.

Barbara Jewell

Barbara Jewell

1909- 2005

First 'Retail Shop' Manager

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Beatrice Straight

1914- 2001

Actor and daughter of Dorothy Elmhirst

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Beatrix Farrand

1872- 1959

Garden designer and landscaper 

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