Right Here, Right Now: Dada + Contemporary Censorship: Lecture Series by John-Paul Stonard

This two-part lecture series examines the enduring relevance of the Dada movement, drawing parallels between past and present attacks on artistic freedom. Through historical and contemporary comparisons, it reflects on the role of art in times of social and political upheaval.

 

Exploring Dada’s emergence during the First World War, this lecture traces its international spread and analyses key works that defined its radical spirit. Featuring a performance by the opera singer Katherine MacRae of an abridged version of the Ursonate (1932) by Kurt Schwitters. 

 

Examining Dada’s fragmentation, the Nazi Entartete Kunst (Degenerate Art) exhibition, and its legacy, this talk considers how Dada remains a model for artistic protest today.

 

Dr John-Paul Stonard is an art historian, author, and curator. Originally trained as a painter, he studied art history at the Courtauld Institute of Art. His books include Creation: Art Since the Beginning (Bloomsbury, 2021) and Chatsworth, Arcadia, Now (Penguin, 2021).

 

Advance booking is required due to limited capacity.

The Brown Collection is fully accessible. Please inform us of any specific requirements when booking.

Light refreshments will be served.

For queries, contact: laurie@glenn-brown.co.uk