Hester Grant is a writer specialising in eighteenth century British history. Her first book, 'The Good Sharps', tells the story of a remarkable family of eight siblings who became celebrated figures in several of the major movements of the eighteenth century. Hester’s latest book, which is about the summer of 1726 and the publication of Gulliver’s Travels, is due to be published by Harper Collins in 2026.

Dr Matthew Morgan is a freelance art historian, educator and museum professional. Until recently he was the Museum Director of Turner's House, and he is also an Associate Lecturer at Birkbeck, University of London. He has worked in the heritage sector for over 10 years, including at the Royal Collection, the National Gallery and the Wallace Collection. Prior to that he was a Director in Christie’s Valuation Department. He has contributed to TV documentaries, podcasts, radio shows and has lectured widely across the country and made a series of short films which can be seen on YouTube. 

This online Members' event will be recorded. It will be available in your National Gallery account within three working days of the event. 

You can access this for up to two weeks after the live session.