Join Dr Matthew Morgan to explore the intriguing intersection of 18th-century portraiture and theatre, inspired by Gainsborough’s captivating portrait of actress, poet and courtesan, Mary Robinson.

Portraiture shaped public image and boosted fame in a society that admired yet distrusted the stage. We’ll learn how Gainsborough’s painting is a striking example of how visual art became a powerful tool for self-fashioning – a vital asset during a time when women in the spotlight faced intense scrutiny and moral judgment.

About the speaker: Dr Matthew Morgan is an art historian, educator and museum professional. He has been the Museum Director of Turner's House, and an Associate Lecturer at Birkbeck, University of London. He has worked in the heritage sector for 10 years, including for the Royal Collection, the National Gallery, the Wallace Collection and the V&A Museum. Prior to that, he was a Director in Christie’s Valuation Department. He has contributed to TV documentaries, podcasts, radio shows, has lectured widely across the country, and has made a series of short films which can be seen on YouTube.  

Take part at the museum: This course will take place in the Theatre, Lower Ground Floor. Participants taking part at the museum are encouraged to visit the galleries in their own time afterwards.

Watch online: This talk will also be broadcast live from the museum. Online ticketholders will be emailed a link to join 24 hours in advance. Ticketholders will also receive a link to view a recording of the talk, which will be available for two weeks.