Chris Owen: British Art and the Industrial Revolution

The day is an introduction to the Industrial Revolution in Britain, its causes and some of its impacts on both society and art. A brief survey of the period 1700-1870 will consider such questions as why did Britain lead the way in industrialisation? And how were its effects portrayed by artists? Causes, including technological innovation, demographic changes, empire and the growth of the coal industry will be explored, using examples from British painters and illustrators.

Joseph Wright of Derby, An experiment on a bird in an air pump, 1768. National Gallery, London. (Image Wikipedia Commons)

Tobias Capwell: The Bayeux Tapestry: a Tale of Threads and Steel

In three lectures Tobias Capwell will explore the essential facts of the Bayeux Tapestry, from its materials and technique to the unique visual record it offers of a dramatic series of events in English and European history; there will also be a detailed look at the armour and weapons of Norman knights as shown on the Tapestry. 

Halley’s Comet as shown on the Bayeux Tapestry. (Image Wikipedia Commons)