In Memory of Giles Waterfield (1949-2016)

We are honoured to present two special lectures in memory and celebration of the late Giles Waterfield, the Gallery’s first Director, covering topics we think Giles would have enjoyed.

John Sheeran: Saving Dulwich Picture Gallery

3.30pm, £12; £10 Friends / Concessions

Former Keeper at the Gallery, John Sheeran, will give a personal tribute to Giles exploring the development of the Gallery from a place with no electric lighting to an internationally renowned cultural hub.

Thomas Marks: The Witty Museum

7.30pm; £16; £14 Friends / Concessions (includes a glass of prosecco)

We are delighted to welcome Thomas Marks, editor of Apollo Magazine, for an entertaining lecture exploring the possibilities within museums and art galleries for comedy and ambiguity.

From satirical novels to the Simpsons, museums and their visitors have often been the butt of jokes – and these, like it or not, often based on the idea that museums take themselves too seriously. But what would it mean for curators to season museum displays with wit or humour? When was the last time a museum made you laugh?