Marie of Romania, Artist Queen

Dr. Shona Kallestrup will discuss Marie of Romania’s flower paintings within the wider context of her unusual designs.

A truly special evening at The King’s Foundation’s Garrison Chapel Gallery last week, where we hosted the second of three gallery talks around the exhibition “Marie of Romania, Artist Queen”.

Delivered by exhibition curator and art historian Dr. Shona Kallestrup (University of St Andrews), the talk offered a captivating insight into Queen Marie’s multifaceted artistic talents – from painting to interior and garden design – as well as her larger-than-life personality and pivotal role in Romania’s modern history.

RCI London director Aura Woodward opened the evening with a warm welcome and remarks on the making of the exhibition and our collaboration with Dr. Kallestrup.

The gallery hall was filled to capacity with an enthusiastic audience, seated among Queen Marie’s delicate watercolours and drawn into the remarkable stories behind her creative legacy. We were especially pleased to welcome, among our guests, Dr. Tessa Dunlop, historian and journalist, and speaker at our upcoming event in Ashford.

Heartfelt thanks to Dr. Kallestrup for the illuminating talk and inspiring partnership, to all who joined us, and to Alex Coman for capturing the evening so beautifully.