We are pleased to be hosting two fascinating talks at The Star in Alfriston on Wednesday 26th November.
There is no charge for the talks, but please confirm your attendance in advance as places are limited: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/gorringes-in-conversation-at-the-star-alfri...
10.30–11.30am: The Enduring Appeal of The Bloomsbury Group and its Art
Join John Holmes, Managing Director and Head of Paintings at Gorringe’s, in conversation with Dr Darren Clarke, Head of Collections, Research and Exhibitions at Charleston, as they discuss why the art of the Bloomsbury Group continues to captivate the public and collectors alike.
Taking place in Sussex, the home of Charleston and the heart of the Bloomsbury legacy, this discussion will consider what gives these artists’ work such lasting resonance. With Gorringe’s increasingly becoming a destination auction house for buying and selling Bloomsbury Group art, this promises to be an engaging and insightful discussions for collectors, enthusiasts, and admirers of the movement. During the talk, John and Darren will discuss Flowers in a Jar by Duncan Grant and George Bergen, which Gorringe’s recently sold to Charleston, and the Duncan Grant painting shown in the image above, which forms part of our 2 December 2025 Art & Design Post 1880 sale.
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Dr Darren Clarke has curated exhibitions of works by The Bloomsbury Group and has contributed many catalogue essays as well as eight editions of the Charleston Press. This talk will cover the impact of the group on the Sussex area, delving into the individual artists' stories. For those with an interest in The Bloomsbury Group and the art they created, this talk is a must.
11:30am-2.30pm: Meet the Experts
In between the talks, Gorringe’s experts will be on hand to take questions, whether in respect of items you may wish to sell or the auction process more generally. You can also view a limited number of highlights from our 2 December 2025 Art & Design Post 1880 sale, including the Duncan Grant painting shown in the image above ('Study for head of Christ in the wall-painting in the Church at Berwick, near Firle, Sussex’ 1941). There are also numerous Duncan Grant and Vanessa Bell paintings at The Star itself you may wish to view during this time.
12.30-2.30pm: Lunch
The Star will be serving a special set lunch. 2 courses for £40 including tea and coffee. To book a table, please contact the hotel directly on 01323 870495 or at TheStar@thepolizzicollection.com
2.30pm–3.30pm: Secrets & Stories of Jewels Under the Hammer
Join Oliver Searle, Gorringe’s Executive Director, in conversation with Sam Hug, our Head of Jewellery, for an illuminating and entertaining look behind the scenes of the jewellery auction world. Together, they’ll reveal the secrets of how jewels come to auction, what determines their value, and how to navigate the buying and selling process with confidence. From myth-busting common misconceptions to sharing insider tips and real-life surprises from the saleroom, this discussion offers a rare glimpse into what makes jewellery at auction so fascinating.
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Sam will also showcase some recent highlights — the true hidden gems — and share the trends shaping today’s market. Whether you’re curious about consigning a piece, hoping to start your own collection, or simply love beautiful jewellery, this conversation promises sparkle, expertise and plenty of stories from behind the gavel.
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Gorringe’s In Conversation will take place in The Pilgrims’ Room at The Star. Tickets are free and can be booked here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/gorringes-in-conversation-at-the-star-alfri...
