Hugh Aldersey Williams

Hugh Aldersey-Williams is a British writer and journalist, educated at Cambridge University in natural sciences. His published works delve into the intricacies of both natural and artificial designs. He has also contributed to curating exhibitions for prominent institutions like the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Wellcome Collection.

His 2011 book, "Periodic Tales," garnered significant attention, with The Daily Telegraph characterizing it as a tribute to the fundamental components of matter. This work examines the historical context of humanity's discovery of the chemical elements. Praised for its clarity and engaging nature by Kirkus Reviews, the book served as the basis for a 2015 exhibition he co-curated, which explored the connection between contemporary art and elemental materials.

Aldersey-Williams has a long-standing personal interest in elements, having collected samples since his youth. His writing often bridges scientific inquiry with cultural and historical perspectives.

Hugh Aldersey-Williams's literary contributions frequently explore the fundamental building blocks of the material world and the concepts of design, both natural and human-made. His book "Periodic Tales: A Cultural History of the Elements" is a prime example, tracing the historical journey of humanity's understanding and discovery of the elements, from arsenic to zinc. This work was recognized for its lucid and enjoyable exploration of scientific history. His personal fascination with elements, which began in his teenage years through collecting samples, informs his detailed approach to these subjects.

Beyond the specific study of elements, Aldersey-Williams's writing often engages with broader cultural and historical narratives. His book "Anatomies: A Cultural History of the Human Body" delves into the historical understanding of the human form, while "In Search of Sir Thomas Browne" offers a biographical exploration of the 17th-century intellectual. "Dutch Light: Christiaan Huygens and the Making of Science in Europe" examines the historical development of scientific thought through the lens of a key figure. These works highlight his interest in how scientific and cultural ideas evolve over time.

In addition to his writing, Aldersey-Williams has contributed to the cultural landscape through exhibition curation. He has organized displays at esteemed institutions such as the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Wellcome Collection. His work as a journalist also complements his authorial career, allowing him to engage with diverse topics. The exhibition "Periodic Tales: The Art of the Elements," co-curated by Aldersey-Williams, further demonstrates his ability to connect scientific themes with artistic expression, focusing on the interplay between art objects and their constituent materials.

“a paean to the building blocks of matter”

“lucid”

“enjoyable”