Mitchell Library

Talk - William ‘Crimean’ Simpson digitised: His role in empire.

Talk - William ‘Crimean’ Simpson digitised: His role in empire.
THIS EVENT HAS EXPIRED
Tickets
Free
Dates and times
Saturday 21st Sep 2024
11:00AM
Age
All ages

Join us at The Mitchell Library, Glasgow for an exploration of the work of Scottish artist, war artist and war correspondent, William Simpson (1823 – 1899).

 

We have recently completed a project to catalogue, research and digitise 249 art works relating to his career as a “Special Artist” for the ‘Illustrated London News’, during which he travelled to India, Ethiopia / Abyssinia, France, China, Afghanistan & Russia.

 

Many of the sketches he made were reproduced in the ILN, and in beautifully printed books. His adventures were legendary, and included attending the weddings of kings and emperors, documenting the archaeology of Ancient Greece, and being arrested as a spy.

 

His passion for learning about these cultures shine through his work but must be viewed through the lens of colonialism and orientalism. The illustrations of “picturesque people” may be seen in the context of war against, and colonisation of, their countries.

 

This event is part of Art History Festival 2024 organised by the Association for Art History.

 

#ArtHistoryFestival2024 

 

MLSC.128422.3 William Simpson, ‘Oven, Greek Village, Plains of Troy’ © CSG CIC Glasgow Museums and Libraries Collection.


Please call 0141 287 2988 or email specialcollections@glasgowlife.org.uk to book a space. 

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We also have a supply of books in Braille, large print and audio.

Accessible toilets

This accessible toilet is approximately 26m (28yd 1ft) from the main entrance. This accessible toilet is located to the rear right as you enter.

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Guide and assistance dogs are welcome and a bowl of water can be provided. 

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Motorised scooters are allowed in public parts of the venue.

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Please note that there is on-street parking surrounding The Mitchell Library. This is metered from 8am-6pm. Monday to Friday. As this is a local residential area, please use these spaces considerately. Alternatively, there is a NCP Car Park on India Street next to Charing Cross Train Station which is a 2 minute walk away. 

Photography and video recording

On occasion, Glasgow Life will be on the premises to film and take photos. 

Study spaces

Study spaces can be booked by calling 0141 287 7655. Click here for further information.

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