Great Art Explained with James Payne

Demystifying masterpieces. Building a digital empire. Making art thrilling for everyone.

Join us for an exciting evening with James Payne, the celebrated writer, curator, and creator of the global phenomenon, Great Art Explained.

James will be joining us to talk about his incredible journey to YouTube stardom with over 1.7 million subscribers and 60 million views. Discover how he built the biggest art history channel on YouTube and achieved his lifelong mission: to make art appreciation accessible, relevant, and wildly entertaining.

Unpack the 'Great' in Great Art

James will be sharing his no-nonsense approach to art analysis and discussing how he breaks down complex theory to reveal the stories, passion and personal resonance behind some of the world's most iconic works. In a world of distraction, as James says, "great art slows us down... it doesn’t exist to give us easy answers - but it does give us better questions," a notion that is embedded in our exhibitions at the Sainsbury Centre.

Celebrating the launch of the Great Art Explained book

We'll also be celebrating the launch of his new book, Great Art Explained, which delves into 30 masterpieces - from Picasso’s Les Demoiselles D’Avignon to Francis Bacon’s Three Studies for Figures at the Base of a Crucifixion - to reveal what makes them truly timeless.

Whether you're a seasoned art enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this event promises to deepen your appreciation and enrich your understanding of art, bringing it to life in new ways.

*Please show proof of membership on arrival.