In conjunction with the publication of Going for Gold: Craftsmanship and Collecting of Gold Boxes, explore intricate, highly decorated boxes manufactured for snuff. This beautifully illustrated lecture includes highlights of the Rosalinde and Arthur Gilbert Collection on loan to the VandA.

Go behind the pages of Eva Stachniak's new novel, Empress of the Night, as the author discusses her fascination with the formidable Empress of All the Russias and reveals what went into her writing process to cast “light on Catherine’s life with unflinching honesty and intimacy.” (Virtuoso Life Magazine)

At the request of Tsar Nicholas II, a set of porcelain figures that describe the history of Russia’s diverse cultural heritage was created between 1907 and 1917 by Pavel P. Kamensky at the Imperial Porcelain Factory in St. Petersburg. This lecture presents more about the entire series of figures, commissioned as the Russian government publically embraced the population’s diversity.

Explore how flamboyant media tycoon William Randolph Hearst chose his works of art, how they were displayed, and how he lived with them during more than eighty years of an extraordinary lifetime.

Seen The Monuments Men? Now come hear about Marvin Ross, a “Monuments Man” who was also Hillwood's first Curator. 

Explore the art collections of two extraordinary women who accomplished what great men did in the spheres of governance, politics, and business. 

Discover how Marjorie Merriweather Post elevated the standard floral designs of the 50s and 60s by leveraging her large private orchid collection for fresh cut flowers. Take a virtual behind-the-scenes tour to see how Hillwood’s horticulture staff continues this sixty-year tradition of growing cut flowers in the cutting garden and greenhouses for beautiful floral displays year-round. 

Hillwood's distinct blend of lavish French interiors with mid-century modern amenities represents both Marjorie Merriweather Post's vision and the imprint of international design firms of the mid-20th century.