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Painted faces: Make-up through the ages

Members' talk and Q&A

Alex Teng takes us from paint brush to powder blush in this online talk about the history of make-up in art
Date
Friday, 12 April 2024
Time
5 - 6 pm BST
Available online only
Audience
Members

About

Rouge, powders, and pomades have gone in and out of fashion. So too have their depictions in art. Former National Gallery Young Producer Alex Teng dives into the history of make-up in our collection

What was in vogue when Lucas Cranach the Elder painted 'Portrait of a Woman' in the 14th century? When Mrs Siddons sat for Thomas Gainsborough, what would she have used to redden her cheeks? Alex will explore how make-up is depicted in our collection and what materials were used in make-up, from the Middle Ages to modern times.

After the talk, Alex can answer any questions you may have in a live Q&A. 

Image: Detail from Jean-Marc Nattier, 'Manon Balletti', 1757

Speaker

Alex Teng is a former National Gallery Young Producer, currently working in film/TV and theatre. His work at the National Gallery included launching a mindfulness 'Escape' video series during lockdown, hosting a panel focused on identity and the permanent collection with artists from makeup, costume and performance, and giving talks on paintings. Alex is passionate about introducing paintings through a modern lens. He hopes to help contemporary viewers find authentic moments of connection with the artwork. Alex enjoys taking inspiration from classical paintings and using them as a springboard to delve into the historical period itself. He has found an affinity with 17th- and 18th-century works, for their nature of grandeur and endless history.

Talks & conversations

Painted faces: Make-up through the ages

Members' talk and Q&A

Alex Teng takes us from paint brush to powder blush in this online talk about the history of make-up in art
Date
Friday, 12 April 2024
Time
5 - 6 pm BST
Available online only
Audience
Members

Free for Members

This is an online event, exclusive to Members, hosted on Zoom. 

Members, please book your free ticket to access this event. You will receive an E-ticket with instructions on how to access your online events, films and resources via your National Gallery account. Only one ticket can be booked per account.

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