Leading art historian to join University

A leading art historian and international expert on the work of Francis Bacon is to join the University of Kent.

Martin Hammer - who is a member of the Tate Britain Advisory Board - has been appointed Professor of History and Philosophy of Art in the University's School of Arts. He will join Kent from the University of Edinburgh in September 2012.

Mr Hammer has researched across the field of mid-20th century British and international art, with a particular research and publication focus on the work of Francis Bacon, Graham Sutherland, Naum Gabo and Stanley Spencer.

Between 2010-11 Mr Hammer was awarded research leave from Edinburgh as a Paul Mellon Foundation Senior Fellow to complete a book on the subject of Francis Bacon and Nazi Propaganda.

Dr Grant Pooke, Head of History and Philosophy of Art in the School of Arts, said: 'Martin is a highly distinguished art historian who we are very pleased to welcome to Kent. His arrival will strengthen the range and coverage of our undergraduate and postgraduate teaching and research curricula.'

Contact: pressoffice@kent.ac.uk

Story published at 1:30pm 31 May 2012