Thursday, 14th

18.00 BST

End Game: The Art of Marcel Duchamp

The artist Marcel Duchamp, perhaps best known for his 1917 sculpture Fountain, was also a chess master. This talk explores how Duchamp visually integrated chess into his artworks and how he employed the fundamental strategies of chess into his art. We’ll look at his development of conceptual art, how it transforms the art object into a logic puzzle that challenges the viewer to think about the artist’s next move.  We will see how his art is nothing without the game. 

Thursday, 21st

19.00 BST

The Ouija Board- Spine Chilling Entertainment

The Ouija board, often regarded as a tool for spiritual communication, has a complex and intriguing history that intertwines mysticism, popular culture, and the human desire to connect with the unknown. Throughout the 20th century, the Ouija board’s image shifted, from a harmless game to a symbol of occult danger. Despite its controversial reputation, the Ouija board remains a cultural touchstone, reflecting society’s fascination with the afterlife and the paranormal.

Monday, 25th

19.00 BST

Japanese Calligraphy: ‘match’

During this Japanese Calligraphy workshop we’ll explore the concept of 試合 (Shiai), meaning “match” or “game.” Often used in the context of sports or martial arts, Shiai refers to a competitive event where participants test their skills and spirit. In this session, we’ll discuss the cultural significance of Shiai in Japan and how competition fosters growth and resilience. Join us for an immersive experience combining art and culture!

Tuesday, 26th

18.00 BST

Neuroaesthetics: The Transformative Power of the Arts

This lecture will consider the topic of neuroaesthetics, delving into how our brains perceive and process artistic experiences and the significant benefits this has for our health. We will explore the latest research demonstrating how engagement with enjoyable activities such as the arts can enhance emotional wellbeing, reduce stress, and improve cognitive function. Additionally, we will discuss the therapeutic applications of the arts in institutional settings, showcasing how creative pursuits can promote healing, resilience, and a sense of cohesion.

Wednesday, 27th

18.00 BST

The Myths Behind Ancient Games

The games played in ancient cultures thousands of years ago were filled with symbols, specific cultural contexts, and mythological underpinnings that helped humans better understand life (and the afterlife!) Exploring the history and myths behind these games, how they were played, as well as basic tenets of game theory and human psychology, invites a connection between ourselves and people that lived in a world very different from our own.

Monday, 2nd

19.30 GMT

Poetry Reading: from boredom to hobby

Join us as we delve into literary works and enjoy masterpieces read out loud by amazing actor – Matthew Peter-Carter! Our December theme focuses on an idea of boredom and hobbies. These are the poems we will study next time:

• Half-Past Two p U.A Fanthorpe
• Personal Helicon – Seamus Heaney
• Why do you stay up so late? – Don Paterson
• Bored – Margaret Atwood
• A Study of Reading Habits – Philip Larkin

Tuesday, 3rd

18.00 GMT

Doodling in the Arts and as an Art

From the preparatory work on the backs of canvases by Renaissance masters such as Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo to expansive doodles conceived as artworks in themselves by artists like Jean-Michel Basquiat, scribbling transcents art historical periods and times and shows a universal passion for drawing and the inner thoughts of artists. Free from the restraints of academic art and public opinion, ‘doodled works’ show how scrawling can lead to great creativity, but also great fun and humor!

Wednesday, 4th

18.00 GMT

Women’s Work: the art and science of textile design in early modern Europe

It is easy to see art in opposition to science. However, in early modern Europe art and science were both at work in the art of lace making, a labour specific to women of all classes in society. More than just a leisure pursuit, lacework was connected to image making, scientific discovery, social status and morality. This talk explores the world behind lace, the art, science and society and looks at some of the artist-scientists who made innovations in both textile design and scientific documentation.

Thursday, 5th

19.00 GMT

Discover the Enchanting History of the Tarot Cards

Have you ever been curious about the origins and evolution of Tarot cards? Come and dive into the mystical world of Tarot in an enlightening talk that traces their journey from early medieval Europe to their modern-day significance. Explore the Tarot’s enigmatic beginnings in the 15th century and uncover the rich symbolism woven into the most common cards. Learn how Tarot has transformed over the centuries, mirroring and shaping cultural, spiritual, and psychological landscapes.