Museum Late & Life Drawing

21st September 2026

18:00-20:00

Join us for an evening of Life Drawing in Europe’s oldest surviving operating theatre. A relaxed and meditative experience celebrating the human body and personal connection through art, the two-hour session will be held in the theatre itself, where guests are encouraged to explore their creativity whilst also enjoying the unique opportunity to engage with the Museum and its collection after closing time.

Within these atmospheric Early Victorian surroundings, participants are invited to consider drawing as an expressive practice and to recognize the sanctity of their own bodies, while engaging thoughtfully with the body and the significance of the space around them. The museum’s history is closely connected with experiences of illness, surgery, vulnerability and care, making it a particularly powerful setting in which to explore the human form, and an appropriate homage to the centuries-old interplay between the Fine Arts and Medical Science.

Led and modelled by freelance artist and professional artists’ model May Prothero, participants will work through a series of timed poses, with opportunities to experiment with observation, proportion and expression. Time will be allowed for attendees to explore the museum space, and drinks will be available for purchase via our on-site Apothecary Bar. The session is suitable for all levels of experience, from complete beginners to established artists.

May is a freelance artist, designer and professional artists’ model who works with a number of historic sites, with a particular interest in education and conservation. Her design practice centres on sustainability, with a strong focus on issues affecting women and disabled people.

Some drawing materials will be provided, although attendees are welcome to bring their own. Please note that only dry materials may be used in order to protect the museum and its historic interiors.

Please be aware that this event involves life drawing from a nude model.

Book Tickets Below

*Please note: a 95p per basket booking transaction fee will be applied to online bookings.

*The calendar will show all dates for which tickets are still available.

Museum Late & Life Drawing