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University public lecture: The man who invented Christmas

Professor Barry Davies is presenting a Christmas themed public lecture at the University of Gloucestershire on Wednesday 25 November.

‘The man who invented Christmas’ is inspired by L Frank Baum, author of books including The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, whose ‘illusion windows’ made him an early and important innovator in festive window dressing.

Professor Davies, an Emeritus professor and former Associate Dean of the University’s business school, will be exploring the retail impact of Christmas, from L Frank Baum’s enchanting window displays to how Christmas is marketed today, in the high street and beyond.

Barry said: “Baum was an incredible innovator and his displays literally stopped shoppers in their tracks. I’m looking forward to discussing how we are still fascinated by window dressing and advertising today, but also, like Baum, remain conscious of the business and retail motives behind the glitz.”

Professor Davies began lecturing at the University of South Wales in 1980, and first came to the University of Gloucestershire as professor in marketing in 1996. He worked in retailing (not doing window displays) for nine years before moving into academia.

The lecture is free and the evening begins at 5pm with refreshments, before the lecture from 6pm until 7pm. Book your free place today.

Photograph courtesy of Rob Latus.