A Night of Insight and Art: The Annual Pilkington Lecture at the Whitworth

Join us on Thursday 20 November 2025, when the stunning setting of the Whitworth Art Gallery at The University of Manchester plays host to a captivating evening with Stephen Snoddy. This year’s event, organised by the Friends of the Whitworth as part of their Annual Pilkington Lecture series, invites you to immerse yourself in a compelling journey through art, memory and creative practice.

A Story Through Art and Experience

Stephen Snoddy brings a unique voice and rich experience to the stage. Having grown up in 1970s Belfast and gone on to build a distinguished career as an artist and museum director, his lecture promises both personal reflection and professional insight. Expect anecdotes from his journey, explorations of how art and place intersect, and an honest commentary on the role of contemporary art within society.

Why This Gathering Matters

Beyond just a talk, this evening offers a chance to engage with ideas that extend far beyond the gallery walls. It’s an invitation to consider how environments shape our creativity, how institutions can nurture talent and how individual stories contribute to wider cultural narratives. For anyone passionate about art, history or cultural dialogue, this event provides a rich opportunity to listen, reflect and connect.

What to Expect and How to Prepare

Begin your evening at 6:00 pm at the Whitworth Art Gallery, located on Oxford Road in Manchester. Tickets are available online, and there are concessions available for students. Arriving a little early allows time to explore the gallery’s collection or pause in the café before the lecture begins. Dress smart-casual and bring something to take notes with; this isn’t just a presentation, it’s an active exchange of ideas.

Join an Evening to Remember

Be part of an engaging cultural experience on 20th November 2025 at the Whitworth Art Gallery. Whether you are an artist, a student, a professional in the creative sector, or simply someone curious about the interplay between art and life, this evening with Stephen Snoddy promises to inspire and provoke thought in equal measure.

👉 Learn more and secure your place today: Read more about the event