Jane

The term ‘icon’ comes from the Greek ‘eikon’, meaning ‘image’. These objects of veneration come with a rich history, with the earliest surviving examples dating to the 6th or 7th century. Arts Society expert, Helen McIldowie-Jenkins, unpicks the tale of the origins and making of this particularly singular art form here

The science discussion group was back into its stride last week,  when 10 of us met to discuss where did and does water come from? We started by trying to look back into in the Hadean period of geological time. Lynne gave a us masterly resume of  how the unique properties of water enable plants […]

There’s nothing new about sham news – or outrageous hoaxes. In the 18th century, satirical prints helped spread such stories, duping thousands. Arts Society expert, Ian Keable, looks at some colourful examples here

Who knew there were dinosaurs in Crystal Palace? You’ll find them in the world’s first dinosaur park, which opened in 1854. Today its Grade I listed models provide a snapshot of our understanding of dinosaurs at the dawn of palaeontology. Courtesy of The Arts Society, Dr Aaron W Hunter, takes us on a tour here

Opera Group 1 started its new season with the showing of The Merry Widow, courtesy of Sally and John Morgan. The next meeting will be held on Friday 12th November at 10am and Barbara Ward will be hosting.  For more information please contact John Morgan.

The Oxford Botanic Garden celebrates its 400th anniversary, the first major exhibition exploring the advent of plant sciences and its incredible visual history has opened at the Bodleian Libraries, complete with rare books, incredible prints, paintings and specimens. Courtesy of The Arts Society, here how the show’s curator, Professor Stephen A Harris, tells the stories […]