An investigation into the main evolutionary events of animals and plants through geological time.Two talks by Elizabeth Devon.Monday, 5th September:After a brief summary of the development of the theory of evolution, we will cover the main events from simple to complex life in the oceans, to the explosion of life on land. We will then … Continue reading "The Theory of the Evolution of Life on Earth"

A social history of Seafaring through the agesThis is a series of eight weekly lectures by Dr Tony Barrow . Human societies all over the world have used the sea since prehistoric times and seafaring is arguably the oldest profession. Archaeological evidence clearly demonstrates its crucial importance to settlement, trade, technological and cultural transmission across the … Continue reading "Bred to the Sea"

An introduction to cultural life in Britain between the Wars: cinema, literature, fine arts, architecture, music and society.This is a course of ten lectures by Prof Maria Chester on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 4 pm.The period between the First and Second World Wars was one of rich and varied creativity in Britain. Throughout the interwar … Continue reading "British Art between the Wars"

A short course in practical and theoretical astronomy focussing on different stars, constellations and astronomical themes each week.A course of five lectures in astronomy by Dr. Adrian Jannetta, on Saturdays from 11 am to 12 noon via Zoom. An introduction to practical and theoretical astronomy for beginners. Learn how to find stars and constellations. Each … Continue reading "Introduction to Autumn Astronomy"

The Silk Road: Myth or Reality?This is a series of three talks by June Neilson on Mondays from 10 am to 12 noon. They will explore the complicated geography and history of the Silk Road, to encompass trade carried east to west and west to east, as well as the spread of ideas, culture and … Continue reading "The Silk Road"

An opportunity to see a demonstration of the techniques used in Botanical Art and a chance to try some of them for yourself.This standalone workshop will be led by Rachel Sutherland SSBA. To find out more about Rachel please visit her website http://www.rachelsutherlandpaintings.comThe workshop begins with a 30 minute tour of the exhibition of works … Continue reading "Introduction to Botanical Art"

The opportunity to create your own botanical painting using traditional techniques in watercolour.This standalone workshop will be led by Rachel Sutherland SSBA. To find out more about Rachel please visit her website http://www.rachelsutherlandpaintings.comThe workshop begins with a 30 minute tour of the exhibition of works by the 19th Century botanist Margaret Rebecca Dickinson upstairs in … Continue reading "Introduction to Botanical Art: create your own watercolour"