IAN SWANKIE

In the aftermath of the Second World War, art, architecture, fashion, film, music and theatre changed radically. Through the Abercrombie plan to remake London and create new towns, architects remade cities in modernist, brutalist ways. Angry young men and new forms of musical theatre emerged. In Soho, rock’n’roll was born and artists flocked to the Colony Rooms. After the gentle Ealing comedies came social realism. The Festival of Britain highlighted the artistic communities and showcased a brighter future for every citizen. In fine art, Hepworth and Heron, Bacon and others were forging bold new directions. From buttoned up deference to ‘Fings ain't wot they used to be’ this lecture will take you from the end of the war to the dawn of the Swinging Sixties. Unburdened by the expectations of the past, a new Elizabethan age was one of unlimited possibilities.

Russell Nash

Russell came to us last year in impeccable sartorial attire to talk about gentlemen's fashion and the people involved. He originally trained and worked as an actor, puppeteer and theatre maker for 15 years. He also spent time as a journalist, jewellery business owner and writer. He's now a popular Arts Society lecturer and a London Blue Badge Guide where he's often spotted on the streets or in the main art galleries and museums.