Art Talk "Apples, Asparagus and the Meaning of Life" with Jeanne Couaillier

This talk explores the evolution of still life in Western art, and asks why the genre has become such a powerful mirror of society.

Still life may be the art historical genre we take least seriously. Yet few genres tell us more about what we desire, what we value, what we fear, and how we want others to see us.

Through a deliberately partial and biased selection of works, we will look again at apparently innocent paintings and discover that nothing is quite as innocent as it seems.

• How can a half-peeled lemon be philosophical?
• How can a single asparagus be a thank-you gift?
• Why did the Portuguese Discoveries change what Europeans wanted to see - and possess?
• Can a bowl of fruit tell us about capitalism?
• And is foodstagramming the new memento mori?

About Your Host

I’m Jeanne, an international art teacher, designer, and art historian. I’ve lived in eight countries, and I love sharing creative ideas and inspirations in a warm, accessible way.

What to Bring

Participants are welcome to bring whatever helps them absorb the talk - such as notebooks, pens, or relevant books.

Who It's For

Absolutely everyone: curious art enthusiasts, artists, scholars, or anyone interested in deepening their knowledge of art in a warm, accessible setting

Event Timings

18:30 - Grab a drink, find your seat and mingle!

19:00 - Start of the Talk.

21:00 - The Venue closes.

Tickets 

Every participant has 1 beverage included in their ticket. Enjoy a glass of wine or sip some hot chocolate while learning about art!

Spaces are limited, grab your ticket quickly!

The Venue

Good Company Books is an independent English Bookstore in Lisbon. Born from our love of global literature and our Portuguese heritage, we are crafting a space for people of all backgrounds to gather and enjoy the best books, events, coffee, and wine. Find out more on our Instagram.

How To Find Us

By Metro: We're situated a 5-minute walk from the Campo Pequeno metro (Yellow line) and a 10-minute walk from the Alameda metro (Green & Red lines).

By Bus: There are many convenient bus options 2 blocks away from us on Avenida República, with the closest stop to our store being Campo Pequeno-Av. Republica.

By Bike: If you're using the Gira public bicycles, there is a docking station right across the street (#431 - Rua do Arco Cego / Av. Magalhães Lima).

By Car: There is a paid parking lot across the street, between Rua Arco do Cego and Rua Dona Filipa de Vilhena. Street parking is also available around the neighborhood.