Can science be entertainment?

Wright of Derby and our love to learn

Talks and conversations | Talk

Thursday, 8 January 2026

4 - 5 pm GMT

Online

About

Can science be entertainment? And can art be educational?

Wright of Derby explores the relationship between science and art in many of his dramatic paintings. He examines questions of morality, ethics and our interest in curiosity.

At this discussion-based Members’ online event, art historian Matthew Morgan invites you to question the relationship and interplay of science and art, education and entertainment, beginning with a study of ‘An Experiment on a Bird in the Air Pump’.

We encourage everyone who joins this event to participate and take part in the conversation.

Speaker

Dr Matthew Morgan is a freelance art historian, educator and museum professional. Until recently he was the Museum Director of Turner's House, and he is also an Associate Lecturer at Birkbeck, University of London. He has worked in the heritage sector for over 10 years, including at the Royal Collection, the National Gallery and the Wallace Collection. Prior to that he was a Director in Christie’s Valuation Department. He has contributed to TV documentaries, podcasts, radio shows and has lectured widely across the country and made a series of short films which can be seen on YouTube. 

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