ev Reynolds spent many years as a volunteer guide at the Victorian heritage property of Insole Court, Cardiff. She then joined its Archive Research Group, a band of volunteers from many different backgrounds, all working together to promote the listed mansion. In the course of these activities, she gradually became immersed in the study of the artist Frederick (usually known simply as Fred) Weekes, who contributed so much to Insole Court's interiors.
Looking at Weekes's career more broadly and in more depth, she came to feel that his talent had never been fully valued, and became more and more focussed on giving him the recognition he deserved. Many hours of research, not always immediately rewarding, helped her to trace his history: she particularly enjoyed the way his life was intertwined with others (not least the architect William Burges) during the High Victorian era. She was involved in preparing a booklet about his work at Insole Court for the use of visitors, writing that although her name is given as the author, she had a great deal of help from others.
She would be delighted if Weekes could be remembered not as a grumpy old man with a parrot, as a relative described him, but as an artist of unique vision and rare ability.
Created 13 October 2025