USA 250-Year Visual Journey: American Art Through 25 Icons, Victoria Hall, Oakham, Rutland.

Nighthawks by Edward Hopper, 1942, Edward Hopper.

The History of American Art in 25 iconic works. 

Where: Victoria Hall, Oakham 

When: Thursday 27 November 2025, 11:00 AM (Coffee from 10:30 AM)

As America prepares to mark the 250th anniversary of its Declaration of Independence, the story of the nation's identity can be vividly traced through the development of its art. On Thursday, November 27, 2025, residents of Oakham have a unique opportunity to explore this rich visual history at Victoria Hall, as renowned art historian Marie-Ann Mancio presents a captivating lecture: "The History of American Art in 25 iconic works."

Marie-Ann Mancio, whose impressive lecturing credits include the Tate Modern, the V&A, and the Dulwich Picture Gallery, will guide attendees through a curated selection of 25 masterpieces that together map the evolution of American culture, politics, and society.

The lecture promises to move beyond simple chronology, instead using these landmark pieces as windows into the American experience—from the foundational years of the Republic to the complexities of the 20th century.

The curated list of works Mancio will discuss features some of the most recognisable images in the world, each a powerful commentary on the American dream, landscape, and people:

Grant Wood's American Gothic: A defining image of Midwestern fortitude and the enduring spirit of rural America.

Dorothea Lange's Migrant Mother: The poignant, unforgettable portrait that captured the suffering and resilience of the Great Depression.

Edward Hopper's Nighthawks: An exploration of urban isolation and the quiet drama found in the glow of a late-night diner (as featured in the event illustration).

By examining works like these, attendees will gain an appreciation for how American artists forged a unique aesthetic, moving away from European traditions to create a visual language distinctly their own.

This cultural event is a must-attend for anyone interested in art history, American studies, or the power of an image to tell a story.

Lecture Time: 11:00 AM

Coffee Service: From 10:30 AM

Location: Victoria Hall, Oakham

Guests Welcome: Non-members are warmly welcomed for a fee of £7.

Contact: To secure your spot or for more details, please contact oakham@theartssociety.org.

https://theartssocietyoakham.org.uk/lectures%202021.html

A Spectacular Sight: Battle of Britain Memorial Flight to Soar Above Rutland Flower Show, Each Day at The Rutland County Showground, Oakham, Rutland.

A Spectacular Sight: Battle of Britain Memorial Flight to Soar Above Rutland Flower Show

Get ready to look to the skies! The Rutland Flower Show 2025 is adding a thrilling dimension to its inaugural event with a series of spectacular flypasts from the legendary Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. Visitors will have a unique opportunity to experience history in flight alongside the beauty of the floral displays and gardens.

Each day of the show will feature a different iconic aircraft, providing a truly unforgettable experience:

Friday, 15 August at 13:10: A majestic Spitfire will soar above the showground. This flypast holds special significance as it marks the anniversary of VJ Day.

Saturday, 16 August at 14:45: The skies will be graced by the powerful Hurricane.

Sunday, 17 August at 16:15: The grand finale will feature the unmistakable Lancaster bomber, a moving and unforgettable sight.

These historic flypasts are a perfect complement to the show's diverse offerings, which include stunning gardens, celebrity speakers, shopping, family entertainment, and a wide array of delicious food.

Don't miss your chance to witness these magnificent aircraft in flight. The Rutland Flower Show runs from August 15th to 17th, 2025, at the Rutland Showground in Oakham.

Tickets are available now and can be booked online: rutlandflowershow.co.uk/tickets

The event is made possible by the generous support of several key sponsors, including:

• The George Inn

• Gates Garden Centre

• Rutland Hall Hotel

• S G Landscapes Limited

• Leaf Living

Tickets for this must-see event are available for booking at the official website: Rutland Flower Show Tickets. For more information about the show, visit the official website: www.rutlandflowershow.co.uk.

Petition launched to Implement Better Speed Control Measures on Ashwell Road, Oakham, Rutland.

Petition launched to Implement Better Speed Control Measures on Ashwell Road, Oakham, Rutland.

Ashwell Road, a busy thoroughfare in Oakham, has become a growing concern for residents due to the persistent problem of excessive speeding. With the town's rapid growth, the road has seen a significant increase in traffic, leading to dangerous driving practices.   

Roxy Sugars petition demands, Rutland County Council, replace the existing sleeping policeman with actual speed bumps, increase the number of 20MPH signs along the road and Install a speed cameras to deter speeding.

Numerous incidents have highlighted the dangers of speeding on Ashwell Road, including the tragic loss of pets and the constant risk to children attending nearby schools. Despite existing speed bumps, drivers continue to disregard the safety of others by exceeding safe limits.

To mitigate the risks associated with speeding, we propose the implementation of:

Roxy highlights the benefits of Implementing Speed Control Measures, Enhanced safety for pedestrians, cyclists, motorists and pets. Along with a improved quality of life for residents.

Roxy urges all residents and concerned residents to join us in this petition to demand the implementation of speed control measures on Ashwell Road. "By signing this petition, you are expressing your support for a safer and more enjoyable community for everyone".

Sign the petition here:

www.change.orgppetition-to-implement-better-speed-control-measures-on-ashwell-road-oakham

Residents who have commented on the petition so far are concerned about the increasing danger of Ashwell Road due to drivers not adhering to the 20mph speed limit. Some have shared personal experiences of near-misses with pedestrians, pets being hit by cars, and concerns about the safety of children walking to school. Many believe that the enforcement of the 20mph speed limit is crucial to protect all people, animals, and wildlife in the community.