Richard Kay Lecture 2026 hosted by Somerton and Langport RNLI

This talk has been newly updated and will cover maritime themes and sailing subjects in (mainly) British art from the Battle of Trafalgar to the present day. From storm-lashed seascapes to elegant sailing yachts, Richard will uncover how artists have captured the drama, beauty, and spirit of life at sea over the last two centuries. The five most "famous" vessels are included, as well as works by artists as varied as JMW Turner, John Constable, William Wyllie, Whistler, Alfred Wallis, LS Lowry, Montague Dawson and Sir Terry Frost. All serving to show how the call of the wild, wide ocean has inspired a fine variety of Art from the last two hundred years.

After a degree in Art History at St Andrews, Richard joined Sotheby's in 1987 and worked for them, until joining Phillips as an Associate Director in 1995. Between 1999 and 2025, he was a Director at Lawrences Auctioneers in Crewkerne. Earlier this year, he joined Woolley and Wallis in Salisbury, one of the largest auction houses in the country outside London.

The evening will start at 6.30pm, with canapes and a complimentary drink. The lecture will commence at 19.15pm, and there will be a 20-minute intermission. A bar is available to buy additional refreshments from, and there will also be a raffle.

Contact:

Name: Tony

Email: [email protected]