About
This two-hour online session offers a close examination of Klimt’s career, from his co-founding of the Vienna Secession movement, to his enduring legacy in the decorative and visual arts. Best known for his iconic, gilded portraits, especially of women, and his ethereal allegorical scenes, Klimt’s distinctive style defined the aesthetics of the Art Nouveau era.
We will also look closely at the National Gallery’s own portrait of Hermine Gallia, a rare and expressive example of Klimt’s portraiture, as well as delve into masterpieces such as The Kiss and Klimt’s remarkable, yet often overlooked landscapes. Alongside his painting, we will consider Klimt’s wider creative output, including his work in interior design, furniture, and costume, which helped shape a total vision of creativity.
The session will also trace Klimt’s inspirations, from Japanese woodblock prints to Byzantine mosaics, as well as his profound influence on artists such as Egon Schiele and the development of Austrian Expressionism.
Your tutor
Lucrezia Walker lectures regularly for the National Gallery. She is Adjunct Professor at the University of North Carolina London Program where she teaches the undergraduate Art History course. She was Lay Canon (Visual Arts) at St Paul’s Cathedral where she continues to serve on the Visual Arts Committee. She has written several books on 19th- and 20th-century artists and art movements.
Watch again
Can't make the session but don't want to miss out? No problem, you can watch again.
The session is recorded and made available to you for 2 weeks.
A video of the week's lecture will be uploaded and available for you to watch via your National Gallery account on Friday.
Booking information
This is an online ticketed course hosted on Zoom. Please book a ticket to access the course. Only one ticket can be booked per account.
You will be emailed an E-ticket with instructions on how to access the course via your National Gallery account. All course information including your Zoom link, weekly handouts, and recordings will be available here.
In focus: Klimt
Tickets
This event is open for Members priority booking until Friday, 23 May 2025. Members please sign in to book.
Standard: £15
Concessions: £14.25
Please book a ticket to access the event. You will receive an E-ticket with instructions on how to access your online events, films and resources via your National Gallery account.
Please note, only one ticket can be booked per account.
Concessions are for full-time students, jobseekers, and disabled adults.