Talk: Behind the Tower of Babel

Join us for a talk with Ian Kirkpatrick and Eleanor Morris to discover how the story of the Tower of Babel has inspired historic and contemporary artists alike.

Starting in our museum, Education Manager Eleanor Morris will introduce our painting of the Tower of Babel by Lucas van Valkenborch (1535-1597). She will then delve into sources as diverse as Genesis, the Protestant Reformation and the Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy to explore why and how this story has inspired artists for thousands of years.

Contemporary artist Ian Kirkpatrick often takes inspiration from mythology, reinterpreting well-known stories through the lens of current social and political issues. He will continue the talk in the Harley Gallery, where his exhibition is currently on display. Focusing on his sculpture The Age of Silver, Ian will decode the symbols in his artwork, sharing his contemporary interpretation of the Tower of Babel.

As this is a walk and talk event, seating will not be provided as standard. If you have accessibility requirements or require a seat, please reach out to us on [email protected] and we will do our best to accomodate you.

Canadian-British artist Ian Kirkpatrick uses graphic design software to produce intricate 2D and 3D artworks out of materials including stainless steel, corrugated cardboard, embroidery, fabric, Perspex and Dibond.

Based in Leeds, Ian’s influences span from ancient cave art and Greek amphorae to graffiti and computer graphics. He has exhibited his work across the UK and internationally, with invited shows in New York, Chicago, Montreal, Berlin, Rome and London.

Since 2017 Ian has been working in the public sphere, producing large-scale murals and sculptures for clients including the London 2012 Olympics, the Tour de France and the Oxford Museum of Natural History.

Eleanor is Education and Engagement Manager at the Harley Foundation.

With almost a decade of experience in the education sector, she has worked across schools, churches and heritage sites in England, France and Germany. Eleanor spends her time running our family, school and adult learning programmes and wishing her tomato plants would ripen.

Meet for this talk in the Harley Museum.

Host or Publisher The Harley Foundation