The Austrian born philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein is considered to be one of the greatest thinkers of the 20th century; elusive, compelling and inspirational, his writings read more like those of a poet or visionary rather than an academic. It can be argued that one of the key turning points in his life took place as he worked and walked in the hills above Glossop.

In the spring and summer of 1908 and 1909, the young Wittgenstein lodged at the Grouse Inn on Chunal in Glossop, now a private dwelling. Here he constructed large box kites designed to send meteorological experiments 5,000 feet into the upper atmosphere.

Wittgenstein had arrived in England determined to design, build and fly an aeroplane - propelled by a jet engine designed by himself. We could say that he arrived in Glossop determined to fly his body and left two years later, having decided instead to fly his mind.

Michael Howard is an art historian, artist and writer who has lived in Glossop for over 35 years. He has a particular interest in, and love for, our local landscape. Michael will be giving an talk on Wittgenstein’s time at Chunal. It will take place at Glossop Labour Club on Wednesday 22 June at 7.00 pm.

The talk is being hosted by KIN.DER, a creative cooperative space that aims to share and promote creativity in Glossop. This is achieved through the shop and studio space at The Gasworks in Glossop, and also in a published and online zine and the WAN.DER series. KIN.DER currently operates as a non-profit making collective. All income generated from the talk contributes to the cost of making the event happen.