A group of arts and culture enthusiasts will hear about the controversies and significance of ancient sculptures The Elgin Marbles.
The Arts Society Wokingham will welcome London Blue Guide Alan Read.
Alan’s special interests include art history and architecture, and he regularly guides at Tate Modern, Tate Britain, the National Gallery and the Courtauld.
In his talk, The Elgin Marbles: A History of Meaning, he will explore not only the unique artistic significance of these sculptures but also the ongoing debate over their rightful home.
He will trace how Lord Elgin ‘acquired’ the sculptures, brought them from the Parthenon to Britain, and then subsequently sold them to the British Museum.
From architectural decoration to disputed cultural objects this illustrated talk will look at the response to them over their time in Britain, from the original controversy over their purchase to the current debate surrounding their restitution to the new Acropolis Museum in Athens.
The Arts Society Wokingham meets on the third Monday evening of every month (except in August and December) in Binfield.
It describes itself as a friendly and vibrant society offering a full programme of lectures, study days and visits.
Alan Read will speak at the group’s next meeting at King’s Academy, Binfield, on Monday, June 15.
Tea and coffee will be served from 7.15pm, with the talk starting at 7.45pm.
Guests are always welcome to the monthly talks.
These are proving to be very popular, so to avoid disappointment, people should reserve a place by emailing: memsectheartssocietywham@gmail.com.
For information, visit: TheArtsSocietyWokingham.org.uk
