What’s on Lecture / symposium

David to Cézanne lectures

A series that explores the relationship between painting and drawing, with a look at some of the mythological and historical subjects represented in the exhibition.

From drawing to painting (Fridays)
Far from being merely an alternative medium to painting, drawing was a core part of the 19th century painter’s practice. Many works in the Prat Collection are preparatory sketches or studies for complex paintings. Others are exercises in drawing en plein air, observational sketches or figure studies. This lecture series explores the relationship between painting and drawing, with special reference to works in the Prat collection.

The stories behind the subjects (Wednesdays)
The Prat Collection is rich in ‘history’ subjects – a genre that encompasses stories from Classical mythology (such as Psyche and Damocles), religion (the life of Christ) and French history (the kings François I and Louis XIII). Art historian Christopher Allen looks at some of the mythological and historical subjects represented in the exhibition, delving into the original texts and tracing the treatment of these subjects in art history.

Academic drawing practice in the French school: David, Prud’hon, Ingres
(NOTE: This lecture was originally listed for 29 October.)