1

OCT 2018–JAN 2019

Spellbound • LiveFriday

After Hours • Free Displays

One World Festival • Talks

Courses • Family Fun

Gallery Activities • Music

3

The Ashmolean is the University of Oxford’s museum of art and archaeology, opened in 1683. It is the oldest public museum in the world and has incredibly rich and diverse collections from around the globe, ranging from Egyptian mummies and classical sculpture to Pre-Raphaelite paintings and modern art.

Cover Image: Witchcraft on the Brocken Mountain, 1742. See it on display in Spellbound: Magic, Witchcraft & Ritual

OPENING TIMESTue–Sun, 10am–5pmOpen until 8pm last Friday of the month.Please note that we will be closed on the 24, 25, 26 & 31 December and 1 January for Christmas and New Year.

BOOKINGEvent information is correct at time of printing, but may be subject to change. We encourage all visitors to check ashmolean.org for the most up-to-date information.

In personBuy tickets to our exhibitions, talks, events and activities at the Museum Information Desk, in advance or on the day during Museum opening hours.

Online ashmolean.org/ticketsSecure 24-hour online booking.Booking fee per transaction: £1

Telephone & Email01865 278112Mon–Sun, 11am–3pmPlease leave a voicemail, or email onlinetickets@ashmus.ox.ac.uk We aim to respond within 24 hours.Booking fee per transaction: £2

Booking feesThere is no booking fee when tickets are purchased in person from the Information Desk. Booking fees correct at the time of printing.

SPECIAL EXHIBITION 4 FREE EXHIBITIONS & DISPLAYS 6 TALKS 8LIVE FRIDAY 12FAMILY FUN 14FESTIVALS & LATES 15COURSES & WORKSHOPS 16GALLERY ACTIVITIES 17 TOURS 18MUSIC 19

CONTENTS

Beaumont Street Oxford OX1 2PHTelephone: 01865 278 000www.ashmolean.org

MONDAY OPENINGSFrom Monday 4 February 2019 the Ashmolean will be open to the public on Mondays from 10am to 5pm so you can enjoy our collections every day of the week.

FRONT DOOR CLOSUREThe front door of the Ashmolean will be undergoing works from Monday 19 November 2018 to Friday 1 February 2019. Over this period, access to the Museum will be through the St. Giles entrance located around the corner from the front entrance. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.

ACCESSIBILITYThere is level access throughout the Museum except for the lower-ground floor of the Cast Gallery which is regrettably only accessible by stairs due to the layout of the historic building. There are ramps into the building and lifts to all other floors. Wheelchairs are available on request. We can arrange free touch tours and audio description tours for blind and partially sighted visitors and those who need an accompanied visit. For more information, call 01865 278015.

SOCIALDiscover more inspiration, news and exclusive images on our social channels.

Designed by Emily Jarrett.

Everything you need to know about visiting the Ashmolean.VISITOR INFORMATION

/AshmoleanMuseum

AshmoleanMuseum

@AshmoleanMuseum

BECOME A MEMBER TODAYEnjoy closer access to our collection of art and archaeology through unlimited entry to all exhibitions, an exclusive programme of events, reduced event prices and many other benefits.ashmolean.org/become-member

4 SPECIAL EXHIBITION SPECIAL EXHIBITION 5

M A G I C , R I T U A L & W I T C H C R A F T

Exhibition ToursWednesdays, 3.30–4.15pmFREE with the price of exhibition ticket. No booking required.

Late Opening HoursFri 26 Oct until 10.30pmFri 30 Nov until 8pmSat 5 Jan until 8pm

For more exhibition events see pages 8, 9, 12, 14 & 16.

EXHIBITION EVENTEVENTS

Rock crystal ball bound in a silver-giltmount, c.1650. Geoffrey Munn Collection.

Book now www.ashmolean.org/spellbound

TICKETSStandard: £12.25, £13.50 with Gift AidConcessions: £11.25, £12.50 with Gift Aid50% discount for under 25s, children aged 12–17, and studentsFREE for Ashmolean Members, University of Oxford students and under-12s

Magic, Ritual & WitchcraftUntil 6 January 2019 Explore the history of magic over eight centuries in this immersive and thought-provoking exhibition. The intriguing objects on display show how our ancestors used magical thinking to cope with the unpredictable world around them. They range from the fantastical and macabre (a unicorn’s horn, a human heart encased in lead), the beautiful and mysterious (exquisitely engraved rings to bind a lover and medieval books of ritual magic), to the deeply moving confessions of women accused of witchcraft.

The exhibition asks us to examine our own beliefs and rituals, and aims to show how, even in this sceptical age, we still use magical thinking and why we might need a bit of magic in our lives.

To illuminate the links between past and present, specially commissioned works by contemporary artists provide dramatic responses to the themes of the show, conjuring demons, flames and the scuttling of malignant spirits.

SPELLBOUND

SPECIAL EXHIBITION

MEMBERS GET IN FREE

The Patrons of the AshmoleanThe Spellbound Magic CirclePhilip & Jude PullmanDasha Shenkman OBE, HonRCM And others who wish to remain anonymous

This exhibition is generously supported by:

The Bagri FoundationThe Wellcome TrustUniversity of East Anglia

Some content may be unsuitable for younger children.

“Promises to be one of the Ashmolean’s most intriguing and unusual exhibitions” Philip Pullman

The Spellbound Magic Circle | The Patrons of the Ashmolean

Supported by:

6 FREE EXHIBITIONS & DISPLAYS

Temporary displays from our vast collection, plus highlights from recent research.FREE EXHIBITIONS & DISPLAYS

Bust of Antinous, AD 130–138, discovered in Balanea, Syria. Private Collection-

Antinous: boy made godUntil 24 Feb 2019 Gallery 8 Antinous was a court favourite of the Emperor Hadrian. He drowned in the Nile in AD 130, and the emperor founded a city in middle Egypt in his honour called Antinoopolis or ‘Antinous City’. A striking portrait of the boy was created by a great court sculptor, and this image was widely reproduced around the empire. This exhibition explores the spread of Antinous’ image and his empire-wide cult as a hero and god.

No Offence: Exploring LGBTQ+ HistoriesUntil 2 Dec 2018 Gallery 8 Commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Sexual Offences Act, this British Museum touring exhibition explores the ways same-sex desire, love and gender diversity have varied throughout history and across cultures. Explore the often overlooked or underrepresented LGBTQ+ histories, experiences and lives by examining objects from around the world.

Nineteenth-century copy of an Etruscan painting of two men from fifth-century BC, Tarquina, Italy © Trustees of the British Museum

Poet and calligrapher Ono no Tōfu, Totoya Hokkei (1780–1850), 1822

Plum Blossom and Green Willow: Surimono Poetry Prints2 Oct 2018–17 Mar 2019 Gallery 29 Some of the finest examples of Japanese printmaking in the early nineteenth century were the exquisitely printed woodblock prints called surimono (‘printed objects’). These privately published prints combined witty poems with elegant images by leading designers. This exhibition highlights rarely shown surimono from the Ashmolean’s collections, including a number of new acquisitions, offering a rare insight into Japanese literati culture and customs of the early nineteenth century.

Lui Shou-kwan Centenary Exhibition: Abstraction, Ink and Enlightenment27 Oct 2018–7 Apr 2019 Gallery 11 Lui Shou-kwan was one of the most significant artists in Hong Kong during the mid-twentieth century. The paintings in this exhibition marking the anniversary of his birth are from the Ashmolean’s own collection. Two themes in particular, landscapes and spirituality, dominate his output but it is his Chan (Japanese: “Zen”) paintings for which he became most famous.

Chan Painting by Lui Shou-kwan, 1969. Barker Bequest © The Artist’s Estate

Teabowl by Tanoue Shinya, 2017, MIZEN Fine Art Gallery

The Art of Contemporary Japanese Tea23 Oct–16 Dec 2018 Gallery 36 Celebrate the art of the Japanese tea ceremony through this unique display of contemporary Japanese tea utensils that is part of the AREThé Festival 2018. Find out more about related AREThé Festival tea ceremonies on page 17.

Curator’s TourWed 23 Jan, 2.30–3.30pm, Gallery 11 Join Christensen Fellow in Chinese Painting Dr Paul Bevan for a guided tour of the Lui Shou-kwan exhibition. FREE, booking required.

Talking...Antinous & No OffenceGallery 8. FREE, no booking required. Join us for a series of short research-inspired gallery talks linked to the Antinous and No Offence exhibitions led by Oxford University DPhil Candidates and Early Career Researchers. FREE, no booking required. Visit ashmolean.org/event/no-offence for details.

FANCY A CUPPA?Relax and recharge with tea, coffee, cake and sandwiches in the Ashmolean Café, or enjoy the pre-theatre menu in our Rooftop Restaurant. ashmolean.org/eating

MEMBERSGET 10%

OFF

Tricks of Trade: Magic and Money in ContextUntil 16 Dec 2018 Gallery 7 Money can be ‘magical’ in more ways than one – it multiplies, it grows, it can buy happiness and bring forth plenitude. This display explores how money and magic come together, showcasing coins used as magical objects and exploring how money has worked magic over centuries.

Gold Angel of Charles I pierced to form a touch piece, 1631–1632

8 TALKS TALKS 9

All that Glitters: De Morgan’s Pursuit of Perfection in LustreWith Sarah Hardy, Curator and Manager at the De Morgan Foundation Thu 6 Dec, 1–2pm, Lecture TheatreWilliam De Morgan is best remembered for his designs featuring mystical and fantastical beasts and his Arts and Crafts tiles, but this lecture focuses on his work in lustreware which was so revered during his own time that he was widely credited with its reinvention and perfection.

In the Footsteps of Van GoghWith Juliet Heslewood, Art HistorianFri 7 Dec, 1–2pm, Lecture TheatreVan Gogh moved from place to place as he pursued several professional activities, from his native Holland to Paris, London, Antwerp and Provence. This talk introduces Juliet Heslewood’s new book that examines his travels and the development of his unique artistic achievements.

The Stigma of Extreme StatesWith Annie Cattrell, Artist, and Professor Malcolm Gaskill, Associate Curator of SpellboundWed 12 Dec, 1–2pm, Lecture TheatreContemporary artist Annie Cattrell and historian Malcolm Gaskill discuss their fruitful collaboration in our current exhibition, Spellbound. In particular, Annie will discuss her installation Verocity and how it was inspired by the themes central to Gaskill’s research into the history of witchcraft accusations.

Antinous: a boy made god in the Roman empireWith Professor Bert Smith, Lincoln Professor of Classical Archaeology and Exhibition CuratorFri 18 Jan, 1–2pm, Lecture TheatreAntinous was a court favourite of the emperor Hadrian who died tragically in the Nile in AD 130. Learn about his subsequent veneration as a hero and a god across the Roman empire through the remarkable busts and statues shown in the Antinous exhibition.

William Marshal: the Greatest Knight who Ever LivedWith Nigel Bryant, Translator Fri 1 Feb, 1–2pm, Lecture TheatreWilliam Marshal, a central figure in the reigns of Henry II, Richard the Lionheart, John and Henry III, was deemed the greatest of all knights. Discover the revelatory biography written just after his death, based on stories told by Marshal himself.

From Aether to AirWith Ackroyd & Harvey, Artists, and Dr Sophie Page, Historian and Co-Curator of SpellboundWed 14 Nov, 1–2pm, Lecture TheatreArtists Ackroyd & Harvey discuss the medieval inspirations for their sculptural artwork in Spellbound which evokes the medieval cosmos where humans navigated the competing forces of good and evil spirits. The work draws on medieval ideas about a cosmological crystalline sphere, transformations in demons and the souls of the blessed.

Three Chapels on the Côte d’AzurWith Juliet Heslewood, Art HistorianFri 16 Nov, 1–2pm, Lecture TheatreMatisse considered his decoration of the Dominican chapel at Vence the culmination of his career. Picasso began painting murals for an abandoned chapel where he lived at Vallauris. At Villefranche-sur-Mer, Jean Cocteau painted biblical scenes associated with the fishing trade. Were they competing with each other?

When East and West Collided: 150th Anniversary of the Meiji RestorationWith Lesley Downer, Historian and AuthorFri 23 Nov, 1–2pm, Lecture TheatreThe Meiji Restoration was a revolution that transformed Japan from a feudal to a modern society. In this talk, explore the causes and consequences of this shift in a swashbuckling tale of swords, samurai and regime change – including the role of the British. The Natural Origins of Supernatural ThinkingWith Professor Bruce Hood, Bristol UniversityTue 4 Dec, 1–2pm, Lecture TheatreIt is often assumed that people are indoctrinated with supernatural beliefs or folklore. However, many supernatural beliefs can be traced to natural ways of thinking about the world that we all share from a young age. Learn about the science of belief and why we are so inclined to believe the unbelievable.

Nemesis: Alcibiades and the Fall of AthensWith David Stuttard, Historian and AuthorWed 5 Dec, 1–2pm, Lecture TheatreClassical Athens’ most dazzling son Alcibiades died in a hail of assasins’ arrows, and his life was equally flamboyant. Spectacularly rich, handsome and charismatic, he was a skilled general, ruthless politician and serial traitor. Learn more about his life through this talk with biographer David Stuttard.

WEEKDAY TALKSTICKETS: £8/£7/£6 Full, Concessions, Members. Booking required.

Concealed & Revealed: Enchanting the HomeWith Dr Ceri Houlbrook and Professor Owen Davies, University of HertfordshireWed 3 Oct, 1‒2pm, Lecture TheatreExploring the myriad objects found hidden away in the fabric of buildings, from old shoes up chimney breasts to mummified cats in walls, this talk will consider the magical thinking that may have led to their concealment in the post-medieval home.

Impressionist SculptorsWith Juliet Heslewood, Art HistorianFri 26 Oct, 1‒2pm, Lecture TheatreWhile Impressionist artists are known for their paintings of nature, many worked in media other than paint. Through looking at the sculptures made by these painters, we see how their preference for contemporary themes were translated into some surprising works of art.

Philip Pullman in ConversationThu 8 Nov, 6–7pm, Randolph Sculpture Gallery TICKETS: £8/£7/£6 Full, Concessions, Members.Booking essential. In association with Spellbound: Magic, Ritual & Witchcraft, renowned British novelist and best-selling author of the fantasy trilogy His Dark Materials Philip Pullman will join Ashmolean Museum Director Xa Sturgis in a thrilling conversation about everything from Pullman’s latest work to the ways in which magic permeates our everyday lives.

Join us for one of our talks on art and archaeology delivered by experts in their field.TALKS

Fear and Loathing of WitchesProfessor Malcolm Gaskill, University of East Anglia, Associate Curator of Spellbound Wed 31 Oct, 1–2pm, Lecture TheatreThis lecture explores the witch trials of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, considering what made people believe in witchcraft and act upon such beliefs. Moving away from clichés about delusion and hysteria, Gaskill argues that witchcraft accusations were rooted in much more familiar human emotions.

A New Moon Shines Over BloomsburyWith Dr Paul Bevan, Ashmolean MuseumFri 2 Nov, 1–2pm, Lecture TheatreExplore the transcultural nature of the paintings and poems found on Ling Suhua’s ‘Friendship Scroll’, followed by a viewing of this unique artwork in the Eastern Art Study Room. Rodin & ClaudelWith Juliet Heslewood, Art Historian Fri 9 Nov, 1–2pm, Lecture TheatreInspired by Michelangelo, Rodin’s work shows a preference for modelling and the expression of character and movement. Though a pupil and a mistress of Rodin’s, Camille Claudel’s artistic genius is thought to have disturbed or even threatened Rodin. In this lecture, we examine the work of both artists and their depictions of human emotions.

EXHIBITION EVENT

EXHIBITION EVENT

EXHIBITION EVENT

EXHIBITION EVENT

EXHIBITION EVENT

EXHIBITION EVENT

© M

icha

el L

ecki

e

Book now www.ashmolean.org/tickets

10 TALKS TALKS 11

PRINT ROOM TALKSTICKETS: £7/£6/£5 Full, Concession, Members. Booking essential.

Meetings with Remarkable WomenWith Katherine Wodehouse, Western Art Print Room Supervisor Tue 27 Nov, 3.45–4.45pm, Gallery 21Meet a series of remarkable women from the nineteenth century through their portraits in the Print Room, including such fascinating figures as renowned women’s rights campaigner Josephine Butler and many more.

The Painted World of Ancient Egypt With Dana Macmillan, Museum Assistant Thu 17 Jan, 3.45–4.45pm, Gallery 21Learn about the work of Nina M. Davies (1881–1965), Egyptologist, artist and copyist, who recorded the tomb paintings of Ancient Egypt, and see some of her beautiful paintings up close.

AFTERNOON TEA TALKSTICKETS: £12/£11/£10 Full, Concession, Members, inc. afternoon tea. Booking required.

Art and Sculptural Ornamentation of Ancient Roman GardensWith Linda Farrar, Archaeologist and Lecturer Wed 17 Oct, 2–4pm, Lecture TheatreAncient Roman sculpture was used in imaginative ways and was often placed to catch the eye of passersby. Explore various Roman cults that inspired choices of garden art and their links to Roman religion and symbolism.

Studio Ceramics: Three Decades of the Oxford Ceramics FairWith David Whiting, Critic, and Professor Timothy Wilson, Former Keeper of Western Art, Ashmolean Museum Fri 19 Oct, 2–3.30pm, Lecture TheatreCritic and curator come together in conversation to discuss recent developments in the world of studio ceramics, exploring education, galleries, personal influences and more.

Fifty Years of the Oxford Ceramics GallerySat 10 Nov, 3–5pm, Lecture TheatreMeet and converse with potters whose careers took off at the Oxford Ceramics Gallery.

The History of the Choral EvensongWith Tim Porter, Historian Fri 14 Dec, 2–4pm, Lecture TheatreIn college chapels and cathedrals throughout England, growing numbers respond to this winning formula of music and meditation. This lecture explores the story of the phenomenon from its beginning five centuries ago to the present day.

The Music of the Arts & Crafts MovementWith Tim Porter, Historian Fri 25 Jan, 2–4pm, Lecture TheatreAt the dawn of the twentieth century, disciples of William Morris had created a unique Arts & Crafts ethos in the creative world. Embracing traditional values yet forward-thinking, rural yet modern, this style also influenced the music of the time.

Book now www.ashmolean.org/tickets

WEEKEND TALKSBooking required. See events for ticket prices.

A Living Tradition: Ainu Wood CarvingWith Toru Kaizawa, Ainu Wood Carver Sun 7 Oct, 2–3.30pm, Education StudioMeet Ainu wood carver Toru Kaizawa, a third-generation sculptor from a family of master craftsmen in Japan’s northern island of Hokkaido, and discover how his contemporary works integrate the traditional culture of Japan’s indigenous Ainu people. Funded by Hokkaido University and Project IRIS. FREE, booking required.

The Portraiture of William DobsonWith Alice Foster, Art Historian Sat 3 Nov, 11am–12pm, Lecture TheatrePlaywright Thomas Rawlins described William Dobson as ‘the very soul of art’, yet he is a largely forgotten artist today. Discover the man who captured the excitement and the anxiety of troubled England in the seventeenth century.£8/£7/£6 Full, Concession, Members. Booking required.

Alan Caiger-Smith and the Aldermaston Pottery Book Launch and Signing Sat 8 Dec, 2–4pm, Lecture TheatreJoin authors Jane White, Julian Belmont and Professor Timothy Wilson for the launch of their new book and a talk exploring why Alan Caiger-Smith and the Aldermaston Pottery occupy a unique place in the history of twentieth-century ceramics.£12/£11/£10 Full, Concession, Members. Booking required.

Wood & Ink: A Thousand-Year LegendWith Master Wei Lizhong, Woodblock printer from the Shizhuzhai Woodblock Printing Studio Sat 26 Jan, 11am–12pm, Lecture TheatreChinese woodblock painting has a thousand-year history and is an important part of the cultural heritage of China. Find out about the history, arts and techniques of woodblock painting of Shizhuzhai, revived by Master Wei. £8/£7/£6 Full, Concession, Members. Booking required.

Parthenon: The First Monument to CivilizationWith David Stuttard, Author Sat 26 Jan, 2–3pm, Lecture TheatreThe Parthenon is one of the most iconic buildings of Ancient Greece. Part temple, part treasury, it was also a statement of political power, the embodiment in marble of Pericles’ vision for Athens. Drawing on contemporary literature, David Stuttard presents a challenging re-evaluation of the Parthenon’s purpose.£8/£7/£6 Full, Concessions, Members. Booking required.

ANNUAL TALKSFREE, booking essential.

39th Annual Barlow Lecture Potting & Carving: The Collections of Countess Wilhelmina von Hallwyl and Sir Victor SassoonWith Dr Rose KerrWed 7 Nov, 5–6pm, Lecture Theatre Join Dr Rose Kerr in a discussion about the East Asian Ceramics of the Hallwyl Collection and the Sir Victor Sassoon Collection of Chinese carved ivories.FREE, booking required. To book contacteastern.art@ashmus.ox.ac.uk

Annual Beauforest Lecture David Jones: Artist and Poet in the Shadow of the Great War With Paul Hills, Professor Emeritus, The Courtauld Institute of ArtSat 10 Nov, 12–1pm, Lecture Theatre Long service as a private on the Western Front shaped David Jones’s historical imagination and religious beliefs. His epic poem In Parenthesis is recognised as a classic. Contrasting his role with that of Paul Nash, this lecture will explain the unexpected ways in which Jones responded in word and image to the new world of technics ushered in by modern warfare.FREE, booking required.

Annual Piper New Year LectureSave the DateSat 5 Jan, 11am–12pm, Taylorian Lecture TheatreFind out more at ashmolean.orgFREE, booking required.

Nina M. Davies (1881–1965), Copy of wall painting from private tomb 101 of Thenro, Thebes. Twentieth Century.

SHOUT OUT FOR WOMENOur Print Room Talks are part of our Shout Out for Women initiative celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Representation of the People Act 1918. Visit our website to see more events highlighting this significant date. ashmolean.org/shout-out-for-women

12 TALKS TALKS 1301865 610406ashmolean.org/venue-hire

BOOK NOW

Delight your guests by hosting your party in the iconic surroundings of the Ashmolean Museum.

Make it a truly memorable occasion this year – wine and dine in the galleries or party the night away in the Rooftop Restaurant!

CHRISTMASPARTIES

Supported by

JAMES IVORY IN OXFORDOn 6 and 7 November, Oscar-winning director and screenwriter James Ivory will be in Oxford as the TORCH Visiting Professor with a series of special events including film screenings at the Curzon Cinema, student workshops at The Queen’s College and an In-Conversation at the Sheldonian Theatre. You can also see a copy of the screenplay of his acclaimed film Maurice on display in Gallery 8 as part of our No Offence: Exploring LGBTQ+ Histories exhibition until 2 Dec 2018.

Tue 6 & Wed 7 Nov 2018, Sheldonian Theatre, Curzon Cinema & The Queen’s College. For more information about these events and tobook, visit: ashmolean.org/event/no-offence

SPELLBOUND

DO YOU THINK MAGICALLY? At this LiveFriday we conjure up an evening of witchcraft, wizardry and wonderment. Explore the exhibition and encounter magicians and illusionists in the galleries, listen to talks on magic & medicine, and experiment with face distortion. Watch out for the Witchsmeller!

Fri 26 Oct 20187.00–10.30pm

FREE, booking essential: ashmolean.org/livefriday

14 FAMILY FUN SPECIAL EVENTS 15

SPELLBOUND STORIES Sat 20 Oct, 2 & 3pm, Education Studio All gather round for storyteller Olivia Armstong’s tales of the extraordinary life and times of seventeenth-century witch Anne Bodenham. Most suitable for ages 7+.

CHRISTMAS TRAIL Pick up our Christmas trail for an adventure around the Museum. Available from the Information Desk.

PICK UP FUNStart your museum adventure at the Information Desk. Activity packs, explorer kits, family trails & sketching materials are available all day every day (subject to availability). £1 donation.

NEW BABY ASHMOLESSinging and sensory play for babies with a different object story for adults each week. This session is for parents/caregivers of babies under 1 who are not yet walking. 10.30–11.30am, meet in the gallery. Booking advised. To book, email: families@ashmus.ox.ac.uk

Exploring Mughal IndiaFri 5, 12, 19 Oct, Gallery 33

Exploring European Art Fri 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 Nov, Gallery 44

Exploring Sickert’s Art Fri 7, 14, 21 Dec, Gallery 63

Exploring Islamic Middle East Fri 11, 18, 25 Jan, Gallery 31

HALF TERM FUN: HALLOWEEN Wed 24 & Thu 25 Oct, 1–4pm, Education Studio Join us for crafts, gallery hunts and stories inspired by spooky objects from around the world.

TALISMAN TALES Sat 6 Oct & Tue 23 Oct, 2pm & 3pm, Education Studio Who will you see in the magic mirror? Which charm will keep you safe from harm? What do the stars predict? Discover the secrets behind intriguing magical objects and images with storyteller Olivia Armstrong. Most suitable for ages 7+.

LITTLE ASHMOLESExplore, play and learn with a different theme each month. All welcome, particularly suitable for 3–5 year olds. 10.30‒11.15am. Meet in the gallery.

Mini Beast Feast Thu 4, 11 & 18 Oct, Gallery 48Diwali Thu 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 Nov, Gallery 28Angels Thu 6, 13 & 20 Dec, Gallery 43 Money, Money, MoneyThu 10, 17, 24 & 31 Jan, Gallery 7

ASHVENTURESAll ages welcome, particularly suitable for ages 4+. Join our regular Ashventures: stories, gallery hunts, games and crafts.2‒2.45pm & 3.15–4pm, meet in Gallery 21.

Portrait DetectivesSat 3 NovHannukah: Jewish Festival of LightsSun 2 Dec & Sun 9 DecAncient Greece: Myths and LegendsSat 19 Jan

TAKE OVER DAYSat 24 Nov, 1–4pm, Education StudioJoin the Ashmolean’s Young People’s group – Creatives – for a range of activities inspired by their favourite objects. What are your favourites?

Fun, friendly and creative; a vibrant programme of family activities.

FAMILY FUN

Donations If you can afford it, a £1 donation per child helps us keep our family programmes free for everyone.everyone.

Reminder Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Join us for the Christmas Light night, One World festival, and Ashmolean After Hours.FESTIVALS & LATES

ONE WORLD FESTIVAL: SING!Sat 17 & Sun 18 Nov, 12–4pm, Atrium & GalleriesA special weekend of faith, folk and song celebrating the communities of Oxford. Come and join us for a dazzling weekend of activities, music, storytelling, talks and craft for all ages. With thanks to The Oxford Foundation, the Oxford Council of Faiths, the Oxford Civic Society and other supporters. FREE, no booking required.

ASHMOLEAN AFTER HOURSFri 28 Sep, 30 Nov & 25 Jan, 5–8pm We will be keeping the Museum open late so you can explore after normal closing time. Take in a talk, listen to some live music, see our special exhibition* or relax at the bar with friends after work. FREE general entry, special events ticketed: £8/£7/£6 Full, Concession, Members. Booking essential.

Heritage & Human Rights: The Need for LGBTQ+ HistoriesWith Richard Parkinson, Professor of Egyptology, University of OxfordFri 28 Sep, 6.15–7.15pm, Lecture TheatreAuthor of A Little Gay History Richard Parkinsondiscusses the need for heritage institutions to displayand uphold equal human rights, and the personalimpact that even ancient LGBTQ+ histories can haveon all of us.

Queer Encounters in the MuseumWith Professor Jennifer Ingleheart, Durham University Fri 30 Nov, 6–7pm, Lecture TheatreExplore the queer encounters that are made possible by museums in which past and present collide, creating new possibilities. How have viewers responded to Sappho surrounded by women, to sexy statues, or to the hermaphrodite’s form?

Burns Night CeilidhFri 25 Jan, 5.30–7.30pm, CaféBeat the January Blues and join the Swinging Molly Ceilidh Band for a brilliant night of dancing, music, and fun! An experienced caller will guide you through the steps; all dancing abilities welcome.

*Please note that our special exhibition Spellbound will no longer be running on Fri 25 Jan 2018.

CHRISTMAS LIGHT FESTIVAL: SING!Fri 16 Nov, 5–8pmJoin us for an evening of festive song and celebration as part of the Ashmolean’s One World weekend and Oxford’s tenth annual Christmas Light Festival. Our Shop and Café will also be open for shopping, eating & drinking. FREE, no booking required.

Booking Unless indicated, most events don’t require booking. Just come along.

NEW!

EXHIBITION EVENT

EXHIBITION EVENT

© Jo

hn C

airn

s©

Ian

Wal

lman

16 COURSES & WORKSHOPS GALLERY ACTIVITIES 17Book now www.ashmolean.org/tickets

AREThé Festival Tea DemonstrationFri 19 Oct, 11am, 1pm & 3pm, Gallery 36A special demonstration of chanoyu, the Japanese tea ceremony, with tea master Ms Yoshimura Soyo of the Omotesenke tea school. £7/£6/£5 Full, Concession, Members. Booking required.

Japanese Tea CeremonyThu 15 Nov & Thu 6 Dec, 1–2pm & 3–4pm, Gallery 36Learn about the art of tea in Japan, enjoy a bowl of green tea and watch a demonstration in the Ashmolean’s authentic Japanese Tea House. £7/£6/£5 Full, Concession, Members. Booking required.

Poetry in the GalleriesSat 24 Nov & Sat 19 Jan, 2–3pm, Meet in Gallery 21Oxfordshire poets share new work written in response to the Ashmolean’s collections. FREE, no booking required.

Hands-On CoinsEvery Saturday, 11.30am–3.30pm, Gallery 7Handle historical coins from different times and places with the help of our volunteer team. Everyone welcome, but more suitable for ages 7+.FREE, no booking required.

Archaeological Object and Coin Identification ServiceWed 3 Oct, 7 Nov, 5 Dec, 12–2pm, Gallery 1A monthly identification service for archaeological objects and coins, run jointly with the Portable Antiquities Scheme. Bring along your finds.FREE, no booking required.

Sketching in the Cast GalleryWed 3 Oct, 7 Nov, 5 Dec, 2–4pm, Gallery 14During these afternoon sessions, the Cast Gallery’s lower-ground floor study collection is open for you to do independent sketching. Please bring your own materials. FREE, no booking required, limited to 10 people. Access: regrettably, due to the layout of the historic building, the lower-ground floor of the Cast Gallery is only accessible by stairs.

National Poetry Day New Light, Old Texts: Gilgamesh RetoldWith Jenny Lewis, Poet Thu 4 Oct, 2–3pm, Gallery 19Poet Jenny Lewis talks about her award-winning doctoral research into the Epic of Gilgamesh and shows how new ways of interpreting old texts can help us to experience them afresh and open them up to new audiences. FREE, no booking required.

Meet Me at the MuseumWed 10 Oct, 14 Nov, 19 Dec,16 Jan & 13 Feb 10.30am–12.30pm, Education StudioA social workshop for older people and those living with dementia. Explore the museum collection through object handling, gallery tours and talks. Refreshments available. FREE, booking advised. To book a place or find out more, email beth.mcdougall@prm.ox.ac.uk

Add another dimension to your visit with one of our regular activities.GALLERY ACTIVITIES

iPad for ArtistsWith Martin Beek, ArtistFri 9, 16, 23 & 30 Nov, 10.30am–1pm,Education StudioA four-day course in drawing, painting and image-making using popular drawing apps on an iPad. £130/£125/£120 Full, Concession, Members Marking the Moment: Music and Mark Making With Oxford Improvisers, Musicians and ArtistsSun 25 Nov, repeated Sat 26 Jan, 10.30am–4pm,Education Studio & GalleriesExplore the wonders of the Ashmolean through improvisational music and mark making. All welcome. £50/£45/£40 Full, Concession, Members

Dynamic Watercolours: Moving Forward With Jane Betteridge, ArtistTue 27 Nov & Wed 28 Nov, 10.30am–4pm,Education Studio Take your work to another level on this two-day course and enhance the unique properties of watercolour by adding various media, manipulating the paint and preparing textured surfaces to work on. £170/£165/£160 Full, Concession, Members

Painting the Costumed FigureWith Amanda Beck, ArtistSat 19 Jan, 10.30am–4pm, Education StudioSeamlessly transition from drawing to painting in this workshop, which guides participants through the step-by-step process of creating an underpainting, selecting brushes and colours and applying acrylic paint. £85/£80/£75 Full, Concession, Members

Chinese Woodblock Printing Workshop With Master Wei Lizhong, ShizhuzhaiTue 22–Fri 25 Jan, 10.30am–4pm, Education Studio Learn the ancient art of Chinese woodblock printing in this four-day course from the Master of the Shizhuzhai from Ten Bamboo Studio. £450/ £425/£400 Full, Concession, Members

Royal Drawing School at the AshmoleanEvery Sun, 7 Oct–2 Dec (excl. 21 Oct), 2–4pmA course from The Royal Drawing School for young artists aged 15–18. Expand your fine art practice by drawing from observation in the Museum, from life models and the local area.£150. Booking: royaldrawingschool.orgT: 020 7613 8568

The Making of Magical ObjectsWith Dr Sophie Page, Curator, and Katharine Dowson, SculptorSat 27 Oct, 10.30am–4pm, Education StudioFor many centuries, people have used the ritual concealment of objects to protect their homes from physical and supernatural harm. Explore this practice, and then make an object to reflect your own ideas about magic. £90/£85/£80 Full, Concession, Members

Pastel Workshop: Autumn Trees and TexturesWith Sandra Orme, ArtistFri 2 & Sat 3 Nov, 10.30am–4pm, Education StudioExperiment with pastels and use layers to create autumnal images including trees, landscapes, textures and more on this two-day course. £150/£140/£130 Full, Concession, Members

Drawing the Costumed FigureWith Amanda Beck, ArtistSun 4 Nov, 10.30am–4.30pm, Education StudioDrawing from an eighteenth-century costumed model, complete a series of drawing exercises learning to portray gesture, shape and form. Materials provided.£85/£80/£75 Full, Concessions, Members

Tile MakingWith Andrew Hazelden, PotterThu 8 Nov & Thu 6 Dec, 10.30am–1pm, Education StudioLearn to make tiles inspired by our Syrian and Iznik collections, explore different designs and learn the techniques of tin-glaze and under-glaze painting.£80/£75/£70 Full, Concessions, Members

Find your creative muse with a short course or workshop.

COURSES & WORKSHOPS

JOIN THE ASHMOLEAN CREATIVES! At our monthly Saturday morning meetings, go behind the scenes, give feedback about the Museum and develop new skills. Meet new people and work as a team to plan and run young people’s events at the Museum. Ages 16–18 only. Visit ashmolean.org/young-people

EXHIBITION EVENT

18 TOURS MUSIC  19

Downstairs in the Cast Gallery Tours Thu & Sat, 2‒2.45pm, meet in Gallery 21Explore our study collection of Ancient Greek and Roman casts. Regrettably, due to the layout of the historic building, the lower-ground floor of the Cast Gallery is only accessible by stairs.

Interpreted Tour: Hands-on or Descriptive Thu 22 Nov, 10.30am–12pm, meet in Gallery 21A hands-on session for blind and partially sighted people.

Interpreted Tour: BSL Fri 30 Nov, 10.30am–12pm, meet in Gallery 21A themed tour with a BSL Interpreter.

All of our regular tours are FREE and do not require advance booking.

Highlights Tours Tue, Wed & Sat, 11am–12pm, meet in Gallery 21Discover the treasures of the Ashmolean with this great introduction to the Museum.

Lunchtime ToursTue–Sat, 1.15–2pm, meet in Gallery 21A different themed tour each lunchtime.

Afternoon Tours Wed & Thu, 3–3.45pm, meet in Gallery 21A different themed tour each afternoon.

Find out more by visiting the Information Desk or go to ashmolean.org/tours

Discover more about the treasures of the Ashmolean with one of our free tours.

TOURSCatch a casual daytime performance or experience an evening concert in the galleries.MUSIC

EXHIBITION EVENT

DAYTIME EVENTSOxford Lieder FestivalTue 16 Oct–Thu 18 Oct, 10am–1pm, Café & Lecture TheatreCelebrate a rich tapestry of music, words and performance in European song at the Ashmolean. Try 15-minute Language Labs, take in a talk and listen to live music 11am–12pm each day in the Lecture Theatre. Find out more at oxfordlieder.co.uk/events

Harpsichord RecitalThu 18 Oct, 29 Nov, 24 Jan, 2–3pm, Gallery 44Hear a selection of music played on the Kirkman Harpsichord by musician Arne Richards. Supported by the Charlotte Bonham Carter Charitable Trust. FREE, no booking required.

Resonant Images Musical TourWith Oxford Improvisers Sat 3 Nov, 2–3pm, Gallery 21Join the Oxford Improvisers for a promenade performance through the Museum. Inspired by our collections, the improvisors will create musical pieces on the spot in various galleries. FREE, no booking required.

Music for Autism: Relaxed Concert Wed 14 Nov, 11.30am–12.30pm, Gallery 44Join us for a relaxed concert with musicians from the Orchestra of St John’s. Perfect for people on the autism spectrum or who have additional needs or learning disabilities.Booking advised to guarantee a place (but fine to come along on the day). FREE, to book, contact 01865 278015 or education.service@ashmus.ox.ac.uk

West Gallery Carols WorkshopWith Dave Townsend, Musician Sun 2 Dec, 1–4.30pm, Lecture TheatreSing songs from the rural parish churches of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries and finish the workshop with a 4pm performance in the Atrium. No experience required. Melody or bass instruments welcome. £11/£10/£9 Full, Concession, Members.

EVENING CONCERTSORCHESTRA OF ST JOHN’S PROMSWith John Lubbock, Conductor£16 chair/£8 rear seats, Gallery 21 Doors open at 6.30pm, music from 7.30pm. Booking essential. Tickets: www.osj.org.uk/07775 904626

Music from Czechoslovakia Wed 3 Oct, 6.30–9.30pm

VariationsWed 14 Nov, 6.30–9.30pmBrahms Variations on a theme of Haydn, Beethoven Variations on a theme of Mozart (wind trio), Reger Variations on a theme of Mozart.

Christmas CarolsSun 9 Dec, 6.30–10.30pmWith the OSJ Ashmolean Voices.

SPECIAL EVENTSOut of the EarthWith Irving Finkel and Joseph Tawadros Wed 3 Oct, 4–5pm, Gallery 44Irving Finkel, British Museum curator, talks about the musical culture of ancient Mesopotamia and the first notated music found on cuneiform tablets. The talk is enhanced by a performance from the celebrated Oud-player Joseph Tawadros. This event is part of the Oxford Chamber Music Festival programme. £10/£5 Members, Concessions, booking essential. To book, visit www.ocmf.net

China National Peking Opera CompanyFri 12 Oct, 12–1.30pm, Lecture TheatrePeking Opera is an ancient art form that tells stories through poetry, dance, comedy, acrobatics and music with spectacular makeup and vibrant costumes. Learn about the opera, see the makeup and costume process and watch a short performance. £16/£15/£14 Full, Concession, Members.Booking advised.©

Ian Wallm

an

20 TOURS FREE ENTRY ASHMOLEAN.ORG

This is what maximum security looked like in Ancient Egypt and Sudan. In need of divine protection, King Taharqa had himself carved beneath the eternal gaze of the god (and temple guard) Amun-Re. As you can see, he hasn’t exactly softened with age.

Step into half a million years of art and history

Discover Ram of Amun-Re, Sudan, about 680 Bc, granite gneissGallery 23: Dynastic Egypt and Sudan

TAKES YOU

BACK