Folkestone hosts Gus Casely-Hayford and Sonia Solicari

The idea that a smartphone or a favourite mug could be the key to understanding who we are is a surprising one, yet it's precisely this notion that museum leaders Gus Casely-Hayford and Sonia Solicari will be exploring in their upcoming event, What Will We Leave Behind? As the directors of V&A East and the Museum of the Home, respectively, they bring a wealth of expertise to the table, and their discussion is sure to be both insightful and thought-provoking.

At the heart of this event is the question of what objects, collections, and spaces will tell the story of our lives to future generations. Casely-Hayford's work, Objects & Us: Why Things Matter, examines the artefacts that shape our understanding of ourselves and our shared history, while Solicari's Real Rooms uncovers the remarkable interiors that have been preserved as snapshots of identity, memory, and belonging. By exploring these topics, the event invites attendees to consider what deserves to be remembered, who gets to decide, and what future generations might learn from the traces we leave behind.

The event is part of the Folkestone Book Festival, a two-week celebration of stories, ideas, and conversation by the sea, which brings together world-class writers, thinkers, and storytellers. This year's festival is curated by novelist Sophie Haydock and features over 60 events, making it a must-attend for anyone interested in literature and ideas. The festival is also part of the town-wide celebration of reading, writing, and storytelling, Folkestone is a Library, which aims to make Folkestone one of the UK's most exciting literary destinations.

The event will take place on Sunday, 22 November 2026, at the Quarterhouse in Folkestone. Tickets are on sale with the button beside this article. The Folkestone Book Festival is committed to making great conversations accessible to everyone, which is why every event includes a £5 Cost of Living Ticket, available with no questions asked. This thought-provoking event is a unique opportunity to hear from two leading museum experts and to be part of a thriving community of readers, writers, and curious minds.

The Folkestone Book Festival is proudly supported by a range of organizations, including Eurotunnel, Canterbury Christ Church University, and the Friends of Folkestone Book Festival. With its diverse range of events and commitment to accessibility, the festival is an exciting addition to the UK's literary scene. By attending What Will We Leave Behind?, attendees will not only gain a new perspective on the significance of everyday objects but also be part of a vibrant celebration of stories, ideas, and conversation.