Most of London’s housing stock now dates from no earlier than the beginning of the eighteenth century. The forms that its dwellings have taken since the time of the Great Fire of London have changed dramatically in response to changing needs, an expanding population, forces of development and legislation.

The concept of the solitary male genius has been a dominant theme of Western art histories. Wives, mistresses, partners and collaborators have often been chased into the shadows, even if they too were practicing artists in their own right.  We will explore the complexities of some of these notable artistic relationships, with an emphasis on

We will explore the fascinating and exacting world of C19th British horticulture and its development as a respectable, skilled Victorian trade which matured into a competitive gardening community with the high standards so typical of the glorious Victorian age.  We will learn of amateur and professional gardeners who rolled up their sleeves to progress gardening innovation