Discover how still lifes awaken curiosity, sharpen our perception, and draw us into sustained contemplation. In celebration of our exhibition, Winston Churchill: The Painter, we'll take his interest in the genre as our inspiration and work closely with a small but varied group of paintings.

Starting with the intricate detail of Van Huysum’s 17th-century flowers we will move to the bold reimagining of the subject by Manet and Monet in the 19th century. We will also investigate the pared-down clarity of William Nicholson’s still lifes, which were so influential on Churchill’s painting, to discover how simplicity produces a commanding presence.

About the speaker: Jo Rhymer is a freelance lecturer who teaches for a range of institutions including the Victoria & Albert Museum and the Wallace Collection. She is an accredited lecturer for The Arts Society and a tutor for the University of Cambridge Professional and Continuing Education. She also leads tours in museums and galleries abroad. She has over twenty-five years of teaching experience in prestigious gallery and museum learning departments including the National Gallery and Tate. Her areas of specialism are 19th- and early 20th-century French and British art and she is interested in the benefits of slow and close looking at paintings.

Take part at the museum: This course will take place in the Theatre, Lower Ground Floor. Participants taking part at the museum are encouraged to visit the galleries in their own time afterwards.

Watch online: This talk will also be broadcast live from the museum via Zoom. Online ticketholders will be emailed a link to join 24 hours in advance. Ticketholders will also receive a link to view a recording of the talk, which will be available for two weeks.

Background Image: Sir Winston Churchill, Magnolia C183, 1930s. Private Collection. © Churchill Heritage Ltd. Image courtesy Sotheby's