The National Gallery is delighted to convene this new and evolving network together with our long-standing partners, King’s College London and St Martin-in-the-Fields. This inaugural workshop, on Wednesday 18 May 2022, 10.30am-5.30pm, will take place at the National Gallery. It is hoped that participants will be able to attend in person and online, and for parts of the event to be recorded and shared.

The 2022 theme ‘Crossing Borders’ is inspired by the National Gallery’s recently acquired painting The Finding of Moses, and The Rest on the Flight into Egypt (on loan to the National Gallery from Birmingham Museums Trust on behalf of Birmingham City Council), both by Orazio Gentileschi (1563-1639). Together, these provide a dynamic epicentre through which we will explore the unique significance of sacred art in museums and galleries. Featuring theological perspectives and experts in religion alongside curators from diverse contexts, the day will focus on:

Engaging public audiences of all backgrounds with sacred art collections and
exhibitions
Developing curatorial resources regarding religion and theology
Exploring strengths, challenges, and opportunities in collections and interpretation
Developing dynamic new partnerships

We are inviting proposals for 10-minute case study papers, which engage with the ‘Crossing Borders’ theme and one of the following:

A work of art in a UK public art collection
A community engagement and outreach initiative
A permanent or temporary exhibition (past, present, or future)

The concept of ‘Crossing Borders’ can be broadly defined, and we encourage proposals that explore this theme from diverse, collaborative, and intersectional perspectives.

Contributions should be of interest to both expert and general public audiences.

Paper proposals should be no more than 250 words, and should also include a c.100-word contributor biography. Proposals should be emailed to ayla.lepine@ng-london.org.uk by no later than 28 January 2022.

Please feel free to share this call for papers widely.