Presenter: Dr Kathryn A. Hardy Bernal
Title: King Henry VIII: Power, Progeniture, and Propaganda
Abstract:
How much of what we think we know about Henry VIII was carefully constructed for us to believe?
Explore the dramatic reign of King Henry VIII and the events that reshaped England forever. From the rise of the Tudor dynasty to Henry’s relentless pursuit of a male heir, this session examines the political ambition, marriages, betrayals, and power struggles that led to the English Reformation and transformed English society. Alongside the historical events, we will also explore how portraiture and visual imagery were used as powerful tools of propaganda to shape Henry’s public image and reinforce royal authority.
Key Takeaways:
- Power was about perception as much as politics: Explore how Henry used portraiture, symbolism and carefully crafted imagery to influence how he was seen by his subjects and by history.
- The pursuit of an heir changed far more than Henry’s family life: Understand how questions of succession, marriage and dynastic security helped drive decisions that reshaped religion, politics and society in England.
Date:
This History workshop will run on Tuesday 22nd September from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm.
Venue:
We're delighted to be hosting this workshop at Alberton, one of Auckland's finest heritage homes. Built in 1863 and beautifully preserved by Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga, Alberton offers a unique glimpse into Victorian life and provides the perfect backdrop for exploring history, art and culture.
About the expert

Dr Kathryn A. Hardy Bernal
Dr. Kathryn A. Hardy Bernal, Ph.D., M.Phil., B.Art.Th., is an art and cultural historian, critical theorist, academic researcher and publisher, on intersections between art, architecture, design, fashion, film, costume, subculture, society, religion, and psychoanalytical anthropology, with over twenty years’ involvement in the arts sector, including lecturing, teaching, editorial management, and curatorial practice. She has held senior positions at leading tertiary institutions in Australia and New Zealand, such as the University of New South Wales, and Auckland University of Technology; has guest lectured at Auckland City Art Gallery, Auckland Museum, and Whitecliffe College; and presented at international academic conferences in the United Kingdom and Mexico. Her formal qualifications include a Doctor of Philosophy in Visual and Material Culture, Master of Philosophy with First-class Honours in Art and Design Theory, and a Bachelor of Art Theory with Distinction Honours in Art History. She is professionally acknowledged as an expert in her fields of research, having been officially ranked by the Humanities and Law panel of the New Zealand Government’s Tertiary Education Commission as a specialist in History of Art, History, Classics, and Curatorial Studies.
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