Britain has never been entirely comfortable with artistic revolution — and when the radical new painters of France first arrived on these shores, the reaction was, to put it mildly, mixed.
One of the highlights of our Neighbourhood Learning Summer School 2026, this fascinating talk sees art historian Jan Cox explore how Britain slowly, sometimes reluctantly, and ultimately wholeheartedly came to embrace the game-changing art of Cézanne, Seurat, Picasso and their contemporaries.
The story turns on two pivotal moments: the ground-breaking Post-Impressionist exhibitions of 1910 and 1912, both organised by the critic and artist Roger Fry. These landmark shows sent shockwaves through the British art world, provoking reactions that ranged from bewilderment to outrage — particularly in response to the raw emotional power of Van Gogh and the bold, unconventional canvases of Gauguin. Jan examines those extraordinary public reactions and asks what they reveal about Britain's relationship with artistic innovation.
But alongside the controversy came curiosity, and eventually, passion. We look at the remarkable individuals who championed this art as collectors, among them Alexander Reid — the Scottish dealer who knew Van Gogh personally and is considered by some his closest kindred spirit. And we explore where these works ended up, from the treasures of the Courtauld Gallery to other outstanding Post-Impressionist holdings in British public collections that visitors can still enjoy today.
A story of shock, resistance and ultimate enchantment — and a reminder that even the greatest art sometimes needs a little time to find its audience.
Our home for the day will be the wonderful Holbrook Manor, a graceful Georgian house set in the peaceful Somerset countryside near Wincanton. Effortlessly combining heritage, comfort, and tranquillity, you’ll immediately feel at home. With a 2-course lunch included and refreshments at breaktimes prepared using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, we’ve certainly got your appetite for both delicious food and learning covered!
Book your place…
For a full course description, including details on the tutor, venue, accommodation (where applicable) and more, visit our full listings page by clicking here.
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Dr Jan D. Cox received a first-class honours degree from Oxford Brookes University, where he was awarded the Jeanne Sheehy Memorial Prize. An MA from Bristol was followed by a PhD at Leeds investigating the impact of Nordic art in Europe in the 1880s. He has delivered conference papers in Britain, Scandinavia, Ireland, Italy, The Netherlands, Germany and Canada.
Click here to find out more about Jan Cox and his other available courses
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Nestled in the Somerset countryside near Wincanton, Holbrook Manor is a charming Georgian house offering comfort, calm, and character — ideal for residential courses and retreats. With elegant rooms, home-cooked meals, and access to the indoor pool, spa bath, sauna, and steam room, it’s the perfect place to learn, relax, and recharge.
The venue has plenty of free parking, accessible course rooms and some accessible bedrooms. There are also a few bedrooms which are dog friendly.
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Please note: The following timings are just for guidance. Confirmed timings will be released to students nearer the course start date.
We will usually begin from 09:30 before a short mid-morning break at 11:00. We’ll then run until lunch at 13:00 before resuming until 16:30.
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A pen and paper might be handy if you wish to make notes and an open mind!
Our Summer School 2026 is here!
Enjoying the look of this course? This is just one of a wonderful array of talks, workshops and lectures taking place throughout the Neighbourhood Learning Summer School 2026. From art history and architecture to craft and culture, there's something to fascinate and inspire at every turn — and if you really want to immerse yourself, why not join us as a resident for the entire Summer School? Visit our dedicated Summer School page to explore everything that's on offer and find out how to make the most of this very special summer.
