Back to All Events

To See Ourselves as Others See Us: Artists’ Self Portraits

  • Holbrook Manor Wincanton, England, BA9 8BS United Kingdom (map)

Join us in the stunning surroundings of Holbrook Manor as we explore the incredible legacy of self portraiture, taking us all the way from Filippo Lippi to Lucian Freud with art historian, Richard Kay.

Almost every portrait painter has succumbed to the wish to depict himself or herself. Some of these portraits are more memorable - and are much more insightful - than others. What must a good self portrait seek to achieve? And why do some artists fail to capture themselves in quite the right way when they can assess their sitters with such skill? With an overview of a wide range of such portraits across half a millennium, are artists’ self portraits really any better now than they were in the 15th Century? We’ll explore these questions and much more in the fascinating lecture!

Before the lecture begins, we’ll enjoy a delicious 2-course meal prepared using local, seasonal ingredients prepared by the team at Holbrook Manor.

We can’t think of a better way to spend an afternoon…



  • Richard Kay has been an auction house picture specialist since 1987, beginning his career at Sotheby’s after university (where he read Art History). He has worked at Lawrences Auctioneers in Crewkerne since 1999. For thirty years he has much enjoyed contributing articles to magazines as well as giving talks and lectures to groups and societies of all sizes in the West Country and further afield.

    Click here to find out more about Richard Kay and his other available courses

  • 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.

    Click here for more details about Holbrook Manor

  • Just an open mind and plenty of enthusiasm!


See what else is going on in your Neighbourhood…


Previous
Previous
11 February

Somerset at War

Next
Next
16 March

Medieval Art and Culture: From Sutton Hoo to the Wilton Diptych