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I put the story into art history

Art history ‘Beyond the Palette’ style is perfect for those who love to learn, laugh, and see art in a whole new way.

Join me for a live show: These are witty, fast-paced art history presentations that blend culture with humour, bringing masterpieces to life through unexpected stories with a playful twist.

Book me for an interactive afternoon tea: Indulge in a delightful tea service whilst I uncover the delicious tales behind this cherished tradition through some fabulous artworks.

Book me for a private gallery tour: Experience exclusive, personalized tours that unveil the hidden stories behind renowned artworks, offering a unique and intimate art journey at the National Gallery in London.

If you’d like a taster of what Beyond the Palette has to offer, I have a large back catalogue of videos about art that you can delve into for free on the Free Art Videos page. Many of these videos are complemented by an Elevenses Blog if you prefer to read rather than watch.

To stay in touch and find out what’s new, join the mailing list here, and to read what other people have to say about Beyond the Palette, you can see reviews on the Reviews page of the website and at Trustpilot.

Hex Appeal

Ever been called too much? Too bold, too clever, too independent? This spellbinding journey through art unravels the myths, mischief, and mayhem behind history’s most infamous enchantresses. From bewitched broomsticks to phallus trees (yes, really), discover how artists have depicted witches as everything from seductresses to sinister threats. Expect bewitching paintings, scandalous tales and Halloween misdemeanours that may make you wonder—would I have been burned at the stake?

Join me on Monday, 27 October at the Phoenix Arts Club

27 October, 6.15pm. All tickets £18 and available here.

A tour de force... fascinating, funny and memorable, you made the hour fly by.

Diana Isabel Jervis-Read, Fellow of the Royal Society of ArtsGallery Art Tour

...you are such an entertainer and a genius. Thank you for a smashing evening.

Ruth, LondonPhoenix Arts Club

A wonderful, whimsical afternoon...entertaining...educational and fascinating

Susie Harwood, micebookInteractive Afternoon Tea

...you own that stage...you are amazing!

Vivienne Alexander, The Place AgencyPhoenix Arts Club

Art, stories, and surprises await – don’t miss these lively talks at the fabulous Phoenix Arts Club in London’s West End! Your cultural adventures start here…

Other shows available:

The History of Art in 60 Minutes 
Strap yourselves in because we’re about to cram thousands of years of human creativity into a single, breathless hour. Expect genius, madness, and some truly iconic hairstyles along the way.

Art Decanted
Fine art meets fine wine in this playful pour through art which pairs iconic masterpieces with the perfect wine. No rules, just great art, great wine, a splash of mischief and the occasional iron filing!

Love, Lust and Lucky Escapes!
The crazy story of Cupid and Psyche is perfect for anyone with a romantic streak—or those wondering what a well-aimed prick can really do. From Rubens to Raphael, we’ll uncover a timeless tale of love, lust, and betrayal. Partners optional!

Tea Story
Fancy a scrumptious afternoon tea served with a side of art, intrigue, and a dash of delicious scandal? From sexy strawberries to an artist with a surprising cucumber obsession, plus the age-old jam vs. cream debate, this is (art) history at its absolute tastiest.

DepARTed
A whistle-stop tour of outrageous afterlives. Witty, wine-soaked, and wildly accessible: this is a life-affirming romp through death, myth, and masterpieces that proves the end is just the beginning (of a great story).

Dressed to Distress
Buckle up for a romp through the most provocative style trends as depicted by artists from da Vinci to Singer Sargent. Eyebrows, hackles and pulses have been raised, careers advanced and lives wrecked all because of an earring or a well-placed a fur stole. Select your outfit carefully!