The detailed realism of Dutch still life paintings is compelling. But is there more to Dutch art than meets the eye?

Merchants of the Dutch Golden Age filled their townhouses with paintings. But these upright Calvinist citizens rejected biblical subjects and Baroque melodrama. Their favourite themes were found closer to home.

Still lifes of this period reflect the prosperity and self-esteem of the new Republic. Banketje (banquets) and ontbijtjes (breakfasts) appear to celebrate an abundance of both local and imported foodstuffs. But could the platter of oysters or kraakware bowl of blemished fruit instead warn of the dangers of gluttony and pleasures of the flesh?

Vanitas, ‘pronkstilleven’ and ‘blompots’ display collections of books and instruments, luxury goods and vases overflowing with exotic flowers. But if we look closely, the pocket watch, fading bloom or human skull, might hint that consciences are troubled by such ostentation.

Life is fragile and worldly beauty is fleeting. Join Lynne Gibson to explore the secret symbolic language of still life paintings.

It is easy to view the performing arts as a luxury. But in today’s unsettled world, can we afford to ignore the wider benefits of performing arts education and training?

There is a widely-held assumption that the performing arts have little to contribute to the economy in terms of GDP. The focus on ‘STEM’ rather than ‘STEAM’ education continues in our schools. And the situation is exacerbated by the financial crisis that has impacted the cultural sector as a result of the pandemic.

The value of a degree today is often viewed through the narrow lens of the salary a graduate will attract. In the performing arts, it is difficult to quantify this over time. And this overlooks the real reasons why passionate, gifted and creative young people may wish to pursue this path.

Professor Linda Merrick will explore how the performing arts industry is changing and the challenges this is posing for the UK’s top conservatoires. Which battles should be fought? What lies ahead for the talented young artists with whom they work as they forge their careers in an uncertain world? And how can high-quality performing arts education and training be sustained and made accessible to all, at a time of severe financial constraint?

Linda Merrick will also be joined by an RNCM student, who will give a brief, personal perspective.

Good to know: Refreshments will be available on arrival and canapes and wine will be served after the talk.