Experiences

History of the World 6-week course

Art Deco Trust

Hawkes Bay

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7 Apr–12 May 2027

Wednesdays, 10:00am to 12:00pm

$330.00 per person

This 6-week course explores the pivotal events, influential figures, and critical turning points of the past that have fundamentally shaped our modern existence. Expert historians will cover eras and moments as diverse as ancient empires, global conflicts, and monumental social movements. Sessions will be engaging and provide you with a profound understanding of how historical contexts continue to influence our contemporary world. Suitable for all.

Be ready to journey through time and see the past in an entirely new light.

This course will run for 6 weeks on the following dates:

Dates:

Wednesday 7th April, 2027
Wednesday 14th April, 2027
Wednesday 21st April, 2027
Wednesday 28th April, 2027
Wednesday 5th May, 2027
Wednesday 12th May, 2027

Time & format: The course will start at 10am, with a coffee and tea break followed by a lively facilitated discussion to answer all your curious questions. The course will finish at 12pm each week.

Location: We are delighted to be hosting at the Art Deco Trust Building, Memorial Square, Napier 5 Clive Square East, Napier South, Napier 4110.

About the experts

Julie Shears

Julie has a passion for the world of the ancient Romans and Greeks, having been a Classical Studies teacher for over forty years. Topics covered in this subject are history, literature, art, architecture, religion, socio-political life, mythology. Julie’s expertise has seen her participate in education initiatives over many years and co-author study guides for students.

In 2009 Julie became Deputy Principal at Iona College in Havelock North, also taking on the role of Acting Principal for short periods. There she continued to take senior students to Europe for a three week experience of history, language and culture. Julie has taken over a dozen school trips to Europe, mostly Italy, but also Greece, France and Egypt. Julie is on the committee for the Amici d’Italia (Friends of Italy) society, continuing her love for all things Italian into the modern day. Julie participates in a weekly Italian class and can converse successfully when in Italy.

SESSION Abstract: The history of ancient empires of Rome and Greece will be explored, encompassing archaeology, architecture, art, politics, philosophy, literature and religion.

Amanda Sowersby

Amanda Sowersby is a Hawke’s Bay artist, Artistic Therapist, and founder of Art & Alchemy. Holding a Bachelor of Fine Arts, she teaches children and adults through classes, workshops, and therapeutic art practices. Drawing on her backgrounds in fine art, art history, and holistic wellbeing, Amanda works across watercolour, acrylic, and oil painting, creating landscapes, botanicals, and emerging portraiture that celebrate beauty, colour, and connection.

SESSION Abstract: The Secret Life of Colour

A journey through art, history, and human experience

Join artist and artistic therapist Amanda Sowersby for an engaging exploration of colour through the ages. From the painted sculptures of Ancient Greece to the expressive works of modern artists, discover how colour has been used to communicate beauty, emotion, symbolism, and meaning across cultures and time. This fascinating presentation concludes with an interactive discussion exploring the colours we are naturally drawn to and the stories, memories, and feelings they evoke.

No prior art knowledge required.

Just curiosity and a love of colour.