Monday, 29th

18.00 BST

Japanese Calligraphy – ‘mask’

In Japanese culture, the character 面 symbolises the very surface of our face and carries a number of meanings: from the nuanced intricacies of facial expressions to the delicate artistry of masks and disguises.It also refers to human identity. Join us as we examine the cultural significance of 面 and its implications on language, humour, and the essence of being in Japanese society.

Tuesday, 30th

18.00 BST

Death of the Sitcom?

This session will consider the format of the sitcom, introducing ideas and characteristics of what was once a staple of television. This session will discuss a range of American and British shows, including Seinfeld, Frasier, The Office and Peep Show to explore what comedy is, how the sitcom has changed and whether it has a future.     

Thursday, 2nd

18.00 BST

Childhood on Screen: Exploring Allegories in Iranian and World Cinema

World cinema has turned to the child as a significant figure to explore social issues. In this talk, we look at the number of ways in which filmmakers from all over the world use the child figure to explore society and culture. Then, we turn to post-revolutionary Iranian cinema to dive deeper into the treatment of childhood, thinking about the ways in which the child figure offers strategies for directors to bypass censorship.

Monday, 6th

19.30 BST

Poetry Reading: childhood chronicles

Join us as we delve into literary works and enjoy masterpieces read out loud by amazing actor – Matthew Peter-Carter! Our May theme explores childhood.

Thursday, 9th

18.00 BST

Magical Children in Mythology

Mythology is filled with stories of magical children. From the Celtic children of Lir to Luke Skywalker, from Moses to the Magical Girls of anime, we have long been fascinated by this important mythical archetype. Who are these magical children and what have they trying to teach us? Join us for an intriguing dive into the stories of youngsters with magical giftings in our myths, both ancient and modern.

Monday, 13th

19.00 BST

Japanese Calligraphy – ‘nostalgia’

Join our upcoming Japanese Calligraphy workshop, where we will delve into the beautiful concept of 懐かしい (natsukashii), or nostalgia, with a focus on childhood memories. We will immerse ourselves in the process of creating kanji, unlocking memories and emotions associated with the innocence and wonder of youth.

Tuesday, 21st

19.00 BST

Childhood Traditions: Exploring Boys’ Day in Japan

From the elaborate displays of koinobori (carp streamers) to the revered samurai dolls, we examine how Boys’ Day festivities reflect values of courage, strength, and familial pride. Beyond the Boy’s festival, we will examine broader cultural aspects of childhood in Japan, exploring traditional customs, educational practices, and societal expectations.

Wednesday, 22nd

18.00 BST

From Childhood to Adulthood – the Long Shadow of Where You Grow Up

In this talk, we’ll discuss how where people grow up can leave an indelible mark on their life’s journey. Using a variety of sources and compelling research, we’ll uncover the ways that living in disadvantaged neighbourhoods can impact individuals’ chances in life, from childhood to adulthood, and even affect their children’s futures.

Thursday, 23rd

18.00 BST

Redefining Childhood in 18th-century art

In this lecture, we will discuss the transformative impact of philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau’s ideas on the portrayal of children in art during the 18th century. Rousseau’s philosophies inspired artists to depict children with newfound authenticity, emphasizing their purity, spontaneity, and inherent connection to nature.  We will also examine the  influence of these artistic representations on shaping the concept of the ‘ideal childhood,’ which emerged as a cornerstone of French revolutionary thought.

Monday, 27th

19.00 BST

Japanese Calligraphy – ‘play’

This session is a journey of creativity, self-expression and boundless energy and curiosity of youth through the artful strokes of the brush. Through the lens of 遊ぶ (play) we’ll explore the joy and spontaneity of play, infusing our artwork with a sense of wonder and adventure. Join us as we unleash our imagination and let the ink flow freely, celebrating the art of 遊ぶ in all its vibrant forms.

Tuesday, 28th

19.00 BST

Alice in Wonderland

Step into the rabbit hole of our childhood’s most beloved literature and join us for an enchanting lecture on Lewis Carroll’s timeless classic, Alice in Wonderland. This online journey will explore all the curious and charming characters, the imaginative landscapes, and the intricate wordplay that have captivated readers for generations. This lecture will offer fresh and magical insights into the novel’s enduring legacy in popular culture.

Wednesday, 29th

18.00 BST

Becoming a Better Creative Problem Solver through Steampunk Art and Design

Steampunk fuses art, technology and history, and necessitates multi-directional, divergent or opposite thinking. It combines opposites of Past and Present/Future; Form and Function; Art and Science; Human and Machine; and Mechanical and Botanical. In this lecture, steampunk artist Bruce Rosenbaum will give you insights to use opposite thinking in your passions, work and life.