It’s time for some art appreciation this month with a fantastic selection of online events that celebrates the very best in creativity.
Join Culture Vulture Corinne Jones as she talks us through what is in store for us this month which some amazing online offerings that explores just how influential - and powerful - the arts can really be.
4th July at 1pm. Royal Coronations
With the Coronation of Charles III still fresh in the memory, join Phyllida Scrivens, author of The Great Thorpe Railway Disaster 1874: Heroes, Victims, Survivors, as she explores the circumstances, stories and personalities involved in the events held to celebrate coronation days and other royal occasions in Norwich during the first half of the 20th century.
6th July at 8.30pm. Art History Raphael
Dr Lillian Cespedes Gonzalez, PhD in history from the University of Winchester, starts this series in art history talks to help everyone engage with the art masters and unravel art history in a way that is more accessible and approachable.
In this first lecture, we will learn about Raphael and his short but rather influential career. This is a zoom talk, and the presentation will show several art pieces of the master as well as a background of his life and achievements.
8th July at 9.30pm. Frida Kahlo
Frida Kahlo's Birthday Party: Casa Azul (Blue House) Mexico Livestream Tour. Hosted by Robert Kelleman - Washington, DC History & Culture.
11th July at 2pm. Barbara Hepworth
Hepworth was an international star, a tireless promoter of abstract art and an outstanding British sculptor of the 20th century whose work remains enormously popular, widely exhibited and can be viewed at the unique Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden in St Ives, Cornwall. Hepworth was one of the few female artists to achieve fame during her own lifetime and Linda Casey, Independent Art Historian, will explore what a fiercely determined sculptor and woman she was!
12th July at 5.30pm. Art Collections
For our latest talk, join Art UK and Dr Hannah Lyons, Curator of University Art Collections, for an exciting exploration of some notable works from this collection on 12th July 2023, 5:30pm. In this talk, discover how the University's art collection was brought together in 2015, from an array of different departments and individual collectors.
19th July at 5.30pm. British Architecture at the library
For our latest talk, join Art UK and Dr Malini Roy, Head of Visual Arts, for an exciting exploration of some notable works from this collection on 19th July 2023, 5:30pm. In this talk, discover how the British Library’s architect Sir Colin St John Wilson had to adjust the height of one of the library's reading rooms from his original design in order to accommodate the hanging of the library's large portraits.
20th July at 2pm. Georgian Architecture
The Georgian period is renowned for its classical style of domestic architecture. Palladianism was first introduced to England by Inigo Jones (The Queen’s House, Greenwich) but languished during the Civil War. It was revived in the 1720s by the Earl of Burlington (Chiswick House) and Henry Herbert (Marble Hill House). Marble Hill became the model for the English and Colonial villa. The neo-classical style was further refined by Robert Adam, famed for his interiors (Syon House, Osterley Park, Kenwood House, the initial design for Apsley House). The period was also notable for the beginnings of the Gothic revival (Strawberry Hill, 1749). Join Dr Eugenia Russell to find out more.
20th July at 7.30pm. Hieroglyphics
Hieroglyphics, first deciphered by Jean François Champollion in 1822 using his knowledge of Ancient Greek, influenced early thought and were the precursor to modern day communication, using pictures of objects featuring their most characteristic elements.
Those well-versed in reading and interpreting them, search for the direction that a human or animal figure’s head is facing in order to decipher the meaning. Symbols reflecting Egyptian values: the eye of Horus, the sun and water glyphs, the feather of Maat representing justice, as well as the ankh – the hieroglyph for life. Inculcated images facilitating swift recognition and interpretation.
25th July at 2pm.The Grand Tour
Although the Grand Tour started in the 17th century, it is very much associated with the 18th century when wealthy young men, especially from Britain, were sent by their families to the cultural hotspots of Europe, particularly Italy, to improve their Classical Education and broaden their understanding of the World. Many of them came back with large collections of ancient objects which often found their way into major museums including the British Museum. The Enlightenment Gallery was opened in 2003 to celebrate the new knowledge of the Age of Reason but also celebrates these Grand Tourists. Join Dr William Sterling to learn more.
25th July at 7pm. The Hellenistics Kingdoms
Embark on a captivating journey through the dynamic and far-reaching Hellenistic kingdoms in this NHM Discussion. Explore the aftermath of Alexander the Great's empire and delve into the intricate webs of power, culture, and influence that emerged across the Mediterranean and beyond. Through engaging lectures, in-depth discussions, and visual presentations, we unravel the unique characteristics and legacies of the Seleucid, Ptolemaic, and Antigonid kingdoms. Investigate the interplay of Greek, Persian, and local cultures, the impact of royal patronage on art and literature, and the political rivalries that shaped this era. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply intrigued by the ancient world, this class offers an immersive exploration of the Hellenistic kingdoms' enduring impact.
25th July at 1pm. A Day in London Life
1851 is famous for being the years of the Great Exhibition. But what was everyday life like for Londoners in this celebration year?
At your leisure
Windrush Caribbean film festival - Various productions to watch until the 21 July