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) The Industrial Revolution transformed almost every aspect of life in Britain between 1760 and 1900. This study day will explore some of the ways in which these changes were represented or challenged by artists of the period. The first talk will show how industrialisation swept across Britain, creating new subjects for artists, from factories and mines to steamships and railways. The drama of such images attracted the attention of major artists, including William Hogarth and J.M.W. Turner. The second talk will uncover British artists such as John Flaxman and George Stubbs who contributed to advances in science and technology during the Industrial Revolution, and demonstrate how the likes of Joseph Wright of Derby and John Martin expressed the awe and wonder of people who experienced the new technologies. The final talkwill explore how the idea that factory production and technological advances were always beneficial developments was challenged in the 19th century by artists such as William Blake and Ford Madox Brown, and by the growth of William Morris’ Arts and Crafts Movement. Please aim to arrive between 10 and 10.30 am, as the first lecture will start at 10.30 am. We should finish by 3.30 pm. The cost of the day is £45 per person (*Gluten Free £40) This covers hall hire, speaker’s fee and expenses, tea and coffee and a light lunch with sandwiches and fruit, a glass of wine or soft drink. To book, please either make a payment to The Arts Society Glaven Valley by BACS, reference SID1 and please add your surname and initial. Sort Code 20-30-81 Account 00411639 and email me, Scilla Landale, at Scilla.landale@afiweb.net to confirm you have done so and to let me know of special dietary requirements; I am sorry to say that we have not been very happy with the recent gluten-free options provided by our caterers and I think the best solution, if you are gluten intolerant, is for you to bring your own sandwiches and biscuits - at a reduced charge of £40 per person. or complete the booking form and post it to me with a cheque for £45/40 per person. Please write SID1 and your surname and initials on the back of the cheque and please include a stamped, addressed envelope if you require a receipt. Click HERE for the booking form As usual, priority will be given to Arts Society members, but if you would like to bring a guest who is not a member, please tell me and I will contact you as soon as possible if places are available. The closing date for applications is Tuesday 29th September If after booking you need to cancel, a refund can only be given if I can fill your place. |