Art Talks

Your guests have seen the after-dinner speaker. They’ve done the wine tasting. They’ve absorbed the panel discussion. What they haven’t done is this.

Beyond the Palette talks are witty, fast-paced and visually rich — described by audiences as “stand-up art shows” and a very long way from a stuffy lecture. Every talk is built around storytelling rather than facts for facts’ sake, which means no prior knowledge is needed and every guest leaves with stories they’ll want to retell.

Tried, tested and consistently playing to a packed house at The Phoenix Arts Club in London’s West End, I am equally at home bringing the show directly to you – tailored to your guests, your occasion, and your venue.

Bespoke Events

Have a specific theme or audience in mind? I’d love to hear about it. Bespoke commissions are very welcome – I’ll work with you to create a talk built entirely around your guests and occasion. Just get in touch to start the conversation.

Phoenix Arts Club, Private Christmas Show, 2024

What to expect

Whether you choose one of my existing shows or commission something completely new, every talk is tailored to your venue, your guests, and your brief – length, format, and level of audience interaction are all adjusted to suit.

I learn something different every time I see the (same) show

Chris, CorshamArt Talk

I'm still on a HIGH after your incredible presentation on Saturday evening!

Deborah W., LondonPhoenix Arts Club

Lynne is a storyteller par excellence

Claire D., LondonPhoenix Arts Club

..a masterpiece...it was exemplary

Hazel, AmpthillArt Talk

The Shows

The History of Art in 60 Minutes
Strap yourselves in — we’re about to cram thousands of years of human creativity into a single breathless hour. Think of it as art history’s highlight reel.

Love, Lust and Lucky Escapes
The crazy story of Cupid and Psyche is perfect for anyone with a romantic streak. From Rubens to Raphael, we’ll uncover a timeless tale of love, lust, and betrayal. Partners optional.

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

Dressed to Distress
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 fur stole. Select your outfit carefully.

Hex Appeal
Ever been called too much, too bold, too clever, too independent? This spellbinding journey through art history has something to say about that.

Behind the Baubles (available seasonally)
We’ll go behind the baubles to delve into the life of St Nicholas as depicted by a host of possibly deranged Renaissance artists. Why do we get oranges in our stockings? Why is Dalí’s Christmas angel exploding? Fast-moving, fact-filled, and gloriously festive.

Tell me about your event — I’ll get back to you within 24 hours to arrange a call.