In our modern world it’s easy to take colour for granted. Yet the most desirable pigments were often exotic or poisonous.
In our modern world it’s easy to take colour for granted. Yet before organic chemistry the most desirable pigments were often exotic or poisonous.
Merchants supplied pungent yellow ‘purree’ nuggets from India, cochineal ‘grana’ from the holds of Spanish galleons, lapis rock carried by camel train from the mountains of Badakhshan. Alchemists prepared deadly ‘King’s Yellow’ and ‘Ruby of Arsenic’. ‘Moorish Gold’ was concocted, according to a 12th century monk, from basilisk powder ground with human blood!
Small wonder artists kept their paint recipes closely guarded in Books of Secrets.
This lecture tells the stories of alchemy and adventure behind some our most colourful Old Master paintings.
How to book this event:
Go to our web site, select Home page, scroll down to Ticket Tailor and book.
THE ARTS SOCIETY ACCREDITED LECTURER
Mrs Lynne Gibson
Now working as a freelance lecturer in the History of Art, Lynne originally trained as a fine artist and has taught painting, drawing and printmaking in higher and adult education. She lectured as an art historian for the universities of Sussex and Bristol where she introduced 'Understanding Art' to the Lifelong Learning programme and residential summer schools. Gives talks, lectures and guided tours to a wide range of organisations and institutions including ARCA colleges, the National Trust, National Gallery, art museums and art societies. She has worked as a professional artist specialising in oil painting and etching. Solo and group shows have included the RWA, British Museum and the Barbican.
All titles available as lectures or study days.
GALLERY 
OTHER EVENTS
Society
Dr Susan Kay-Williams
5 Nov 2024 - 10:30
Online Event
The History of Embroidery is a fascinating story that is told mostly by the surviving work rather than the names of the makers.