Mary Edith Durham (1863-1944) was a British explorer and collector who extensively documented the Balkans from 1900 to 1921. Her journeys took her through present-day Albania, Kosovo, Montenegro, and Macedonia, where she navigated challenging landscapes and harsh weather. She gained the respect of local communities and became an advocate for their struggles, particularly during times of conflict. Durham’s extensive collection of textiles, primarily women's clothing, serves as a vital record of the region’s disappearing traditional culture, highlighting regional styles that indicate tribe, religion, and social status.

Today, her legacy is honoured through an exhibition at Bankfield Museum, where the Edith Durham Collection celebrates her contributions to anthropology and cultural preservation in the Balkans.

Learn more on the Bankfield Museum website below.