A unique opportunity to prepare for one of the cultural events of the decade

To celebrate the historic return of the Bayeux Tapestry to Britain for the first time in almost 1,000 years, The Arts Society Steyning is delighted to present this special afternoon lecture by Imogen.

The Bayeux Tapestry is one of the world's most celebrated medieval treasures—an extraordinary work of art that vividly recounts the dramatic events leading to the Battle of Hastings in 1066 and the Norman Conquest, forever changing the course of English history.

In this captivating lecture, Imogen explores the enduring mysteries surrounding the tapestry: who created it, where it was made, and why this remarkable embroidered chronicle came into being. More than simply a record of a famous battle, it is a richly woven story of ambition, power, kingship, loyalty, betrayal and medieval life.

Through a close examination of its beautifully embroidered scenes, she uncovers the fascinating details, symbolism and hidden narratives that are often overlooked. Discover how this extraordinary masterpiece brings history vividly to life and why it remains one of the most important and intriguing works of medieval art ever created.

You will also remember Martha Strachan, a postgraduate student in textile conservation, from Steyning, who will give us another short presentation on her work on 9 November at 1.50 pm, immediately before the lecture on the Bayeux Tapestry.

Martha will share her work on a Victorian parasol and the treatment of a silk map dating from the 1770s. She will also display photographs and examples of her work, which she will be delighted to discuss with members after her presentation.

The lecture on the Bayeux Tapestry will follow immediately after Martha’s presentation, offering the perfect introduction for anyone planning to visit the exhibition at the British Museum, as well as for all those with a passion for history, art and medieval storytelling.

The lecture is free to members but you must purchase a ticket in advance as we expect this to be a popular event.

Tickets for non-members will go on sale on Monday 12th October, subject to availability.

Earlier the same day, Imogen will also present our regular morning lecture as part of The Arts Society Steyning's monthly programme, giving members the opportunity to enjoy two fascinating talks from this highly regarded lecturer.

Please note: lunch is not provided between the morning and afternoon lectures. Members attending both sessions are asked to make their own arrangements, with a variety of local pubs, cafés and restaurants available nearby.

With the British Museum exhibition expected to attract enormous interest, this is a rare opportunity to deepen your understanding of one of history's greatest masterpieces before seeing it for yourself. Whether you attend one lecture or both, don't miss this exceptional day of history, art and storytelling.

Information
The Arts Society Steyning
Registered Charity No: 5022090

 

Standing in the nave of Ely cathedral when I was 14, I stopped listening to the guide saying how long and how high and started wondering how on earth ordinary human beings created sky-scraping, dizzyingly high buildings on which even the top-most parts were delicately decorated. How, why and for whom were my questions. 

In this lecture we meet the Master Masons who both designed the buildings and ran the site. They commanded everything whether it was sourcing the vast quantities of wood and stone, recruiting the workforce or knowing enough about their various trades to be able to create heaven on earth out the cacophony of thousands of chisels and hammers.

These men were charismatic leaders, but they were continually checked by their fellow Master Masons in the interests of making a building as strong as possible - we only see their successes, after all. They were real people who got into trouble with the law, who occasionally cheated on contracts, who liked to start a job but not to finish it. On the other hand, their creations remain to this day, some breathtakingly beautiful in their exquisite detail causing us, centuries later, to stand in a nave and wonder.

After nearly 20 years in the British army Imogen went to the University of Kent to study Anglo-Saxon & Medieval History and Art, graduating with 1st class honours, followed by an MPhil from the University of Birmingham. She works as a freelance lecturer across Britain and Europe as well as lecturing on small cruise ships and running study tours and courses on land. Has written Stone on Stone: the Men Who Built the Cathedrals, published 2019. 

Imogen is a Freeman of the City of London, being a Member of the Company of Communicators. Advisor on memorials and monuments for Canterbury's Diocesan Advisory Committee.