Although there is a long way to go before men and women achieve parity in the art world, female artists have undoubtedly made great strides in recent decades, with far greater representation at museums, galleries, and international exhibitions. But today’s contemporary female artists likely wouldn’t be where they are today were it not for their 19th century predecessors who flocked to Paris to pursue an education in the arts. Dozens of them are now emerging from the shadows, thanks to a new book by local author Caroline Chapman.

Artists have always used jokes to make serious statements - about themselves, each other, the world and the nature of art itself. From medieval manuscript margins to a moustache on the Mona Lisa, from pun to parody, artists' jokes will tell you a lot - once you know how to read them...

Artists have always used jokes to make serious statements - about themselves, each other, the world and the nature of art itself. From medieval manuscript margins to a moustache on the Mona Lisa, from pun to parody, artists' jokes will tell you a lot - once you know how to read them...

Although there is a long way to go before men and women achieve parity in the art world, female artists have undoubtedly made great strides in recent decades, with far greater representation at museums, galleries, and international exhibitions. But today’s contemporary female artists likely wouldn’t be where they are today were it not for their 19th century predecessors who flocked to Paris to pursue an education in the arts. Dozens of them are now emerging from the shadows, thanks to a new book by local author Caroline Chapman.

Author of The Criminal Conversation of Mrs Norton, Diane Atkinson has been instrumental in the campaign for a Blue Plaque to commemorate Caroline Norton. Fresh from its unveiling, join us for an afternoon of all things marvellous about our very own Mrs Norton.

Before Markenfield was built, the Italian Oligarchies of Venice, Milan Genoa, Florence and Siena had already been established and were flourishing. Join us to discover how these fortified towns formed the Italy we know and love today. Includes refreshments and lunch.

Before Markenfield was built, the Italian Oligarchies of Venice, Milan Genoa, Florence and Siena had already been established and were flourishing. Join us to discover how these fortified towns formed the Italy we know and love today. Includes refreshments and lunch.