Winter Talks Series
The series will delve into the homes, lives and legacies of notable literary and visual artists, featuring four expert-led talks, followed by a seminar in partnership with Maynooth University in February 2025.
The series begins on 1 November 2024 with Lizzie Dunford, Director of Jane Austen’s House, presenting "Finding Ireland in Jane Austen’s House & Shaw’s Corner." In this illustrated talk, Dunford will explore the connections between Ireland and the works of both Jane Austen and George Bernard Shaw.
On 6 November 2024, photography historian Professor Lee Fontanella will deliver "Favoured Lands, Favoured Arts: The King-Tenisons in the National Library of Ireland." Fontanella’s lecture will discuss the significant roles of Edward King-Tenison and Lady Louisa Tenison in Ireland’s 19th-century cultural history.
On 12 November 2024, Pauline Swords, Head of Collections and Conservation at Russborough House, will present "From Rome to Russborough: An 18th Century Grand Tour Collection," which will focus on the Milltown library’s fascinating history.
Finally, Dr. Ciarán Reilly will conclude the series on 21 November 2024 with "A Store of Knowledge and Learning: The World of the Joly Family”, which will examine the influential contributions of the Joly family to Irish cultural life.
The series culminates with a research seminar in February 2025 in collaboration with Maynooth University.
All talks are free, in-person, and will be held at the National Library of Ireland.
Booking is essential.
1833 editions of Jane Austen novels, the Joly Collection, The National Library of Ireland, J.823.
Photo of the 1860 dining room at Russborough House
Tension Family & Friends Album, 1864. The National Library of Ireland ALB295
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