Stripped Naked – The Nude in Art History
Join The Arts Society SW London for an illuminating study day exploring ‘Stripped Naked – The Nude in Art History’ with renowned art historian and lecturer Stella Grace Lyons at the Putney Arts Theatre on Monday, 24 November 2025.
This comprehensive exploration of the nude in art history examines how the human body has served as both the epitome of beauty and a subject of censorship and controversy throughout the ages. Through three engaging lectures, participants will discover how images of the nude reflect the social attitudes of the time and gain insights into the complex questions about changing relationships with the human body.
The study day features three fascinating lectures:
10:30 to 11:30 – Lecture 1: ‘Introducing the Nude’
Begin your journey with an introduction to the fundamental concepts and historical context of the nude in art. This opening lecture establishes the foundation for understanding how artists have approached the human form across different periods and cultures.
12:00 to 13:00 – Lecture 2: ‘The Shock of the Nude’
Following a refreshment break, explore the controversial aspects of nude representation in art. Discover how certain depictions challenged societal norms and sparked debates about morality, censorship, and artistic freedom. Please note this lecture will help you understand your own sensibilities around nudity in art.
13:45 to 14:45 – Lecture 3: ‘The Censored Nude’
The final lecture examines instances of censorship and suppression in art history, revealing how political, religious, and social forces have attempted to control the representation of the human body. Learn about famous cases of artistic censorship and their lasting impact on cultural discourse.
Stella Grace Lyons brings exceptional expertise to this subject. As an accredited Art History lecturer, speaker, and writer with The Arts Society, she has spent over a year studying Renaissance art in Florence, followed by three months exploring Venetian art in Venice. Her extensive experience includes attending classes at the prestigious Charles H. Cecil studios in Florence, providing her with unique insights into both the creation and interpretation of classical art.
The event takes place at the historic Putney Arts Theatre on Ravenna Road, with doors opening at 10:00 for a 10:30 start. The venue provides a comfortable and intimate setting for this educational experience, with breaks scheduled between lectures for refreshments and discussion.
Tickets are priced at £38 (plus a 50p booking fee) and can be purchased through TicketSource. Please note that access to the venue is restricted to adults only (over 18 years), recognising the mature content of the subject matter. To explore the venue’s facilities and access information, visitors can scan the QR code provided or visit the TicketSource website directly.
This study day offers a rare opportunity to engage with art history in depth, guided by an expert who combines academic knowledge with practical artistic experience. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, student, or simply curious about the cultural significance of the nude in art, this comprehensive program promises to enhance your understanding and appreciation of this fundamental artistic tradition.
