There’s nothing quite like an intriguing lecture or seminar to spark the imagination, and thankfully brainy London has plenty of opportunities to learn something new or indulge a passion whilst visiting the capital. Whether you want to know more about history, the arts, sciences or discover the future of modern technology, this June offers a little something for everyone.
The Cult of Celebrity: Fame, Celebrity and Caricature
This lecture series throughout June explores the rise of celebrity in the art world, charting the careers of artistic greats such as Michelangelo, Caravaggio, Rembrandt, Vermeer and the Pre-Raphaelites to discover the pivotal role a very modern celebrity sensibility is to the success of these artists. The talk explores the cult of celebrity in artistic terms, and how it affected the artists themselves and the value of their works, with themes such as signature artworks and individualism at the core of the seminar, ideal for art fans staying at the Park Grand Kensington Hotel.
ExpeRience: A Space Odyssey
An expert panel explore real-life space exploration and the new wave of scientific research, some fifty years after the release of Stanley Kubrick’s 2001: A Space Odyssey. The panel will look at the science behind the film, as well as the venue offering a number of great hands-on activities for all ages which give a more practical side to the scientific world. AI is one of the key concerns addressed during the talk, as well as the damage which ‘space junk’ can cause the universe. Food and drink are provided for a fully immersive and active evening of information, but the Park Kensington Hotel Restaurant is of course available for meals before the event.
The Riddle of Ancient Sparta: Unwrapping an Enigma by Professor Paul Cartledge
This lecture explores the role of Ancient Sparta in the historical memory, unpicking fact and fiction to uncover realities which are in many ways more interesting than the legend which has sprung up about the Spartans. Arguing that the Spartan tradition is still alive and well, the Gresham College lecture is hosted by Professor Paul Cartledge, a renowned British ancient historian. After this early afternoon event, be sure to head back to the Park Grand Kensington for afternoon tea.
Summer in the medicinal garden: A series of afternoons exploring medical plants
The Royal College of Physicians is hosting the first in a series of lectures on the evolution of the medicinal plant garden, exploring the fascinating ways in which plants were used in aesthesia and medicine throughout history. The talk is dedicated to the 400th anniversary of the College’s own Pharmacopoeia Londinensis, and includes plenty of refreshments as you explore the garden with knowledgeable professionals keen to share the history of plant products in the medicine world. The event encompasses a full afternoon of lectures and talks as well as a drinks reception.
