The Arts Society Haslemere invites you to a talk presented by Gavin Plumley.

The talk is entitled JOHN SINGER SARGENT: THE PRIVATE RADICAL.

Whether drawing Duchesses or portraying princes. John Singer Sargent (1856-1925) was high society’s  leading portraitist.  Flaunting a consummate technique, his luxurious canvases mirrored his subject’s wealth.  Yet beneath the dazzling works lurks a much rawer world by far.  This talk charts his life and prolific output showing that, like the era he came to represent, Sargent was always on the cusp of seismic change.

Despite the acclaim and commercial success of his portraits, Sargent experienced a sense of disillusionment with the genre. He expressed dissatisfaction with the superficiality of societal portraiture, which often prioritized appearance over depth and character.

Ths lecture is part of the Haslemere Festival so bring all your friends. There will be tea and cake afterwards.

Arrive at 1.45pm for 2pm start.