In this illustrated talk, celebrated curator and aesthete Stephen Calloway explores how William Nicholson’s carefully crafted public persona, captured in portraits and photographs across his long career, became one of his most enduring works of art.

The 1890s was an exciting decade that saw the rise of a remarkable generation of young artists, all eager to make their mark. Among them, Nicholson stood out not only for the startling innovation of his work but also for the way he presented himself to the world.

The idea of the artist or writer creating a recognisable public identity through dress, manner, and performance was not entirely new. Figures such as Lord Byron, with his darkly Romantic pose, and Beau Brummell, the ineffably stylish Regency dandy, had already achieved what we would now call celebrity status. Against this backdrop, Nicholson created a personal image as distinctive as his art. Through the way he dressed, behaved, and presented himself, he turned life into performance.

This talk will shine a light on how style, self-presentation, and creativity combined to shape both Nicholson’s legacy and the very idea of the modern artist.

This talk is part of our April Late event. By purchasing this talk ticket you gain free access to our galleries, exhibitions and drop-in activities from 5-8.30pm.