A HISTORY OF WORLD ART IN FIVE SYMBOLS – MATTHEW WILSON

Art speaks in a complex language of symbols, where a plant, animal or object has a specific metaphorical meaning. Where do these meanings come from, how have they evolved and what do they tell us about the cultures they come from? By examining the backstories of falcons, sunflowers, skulls, fountains and dogs in art, this lecture will provide a unique perspective on global history. It will show how mighty empires and global religions have made these motifs ubiquitous even in the modern world, appearing as they do in advertising, corporate branding and public monuments, as well as the world’s most famous art.