Presented by Beacon College

Dr. Ray Nault: Hans Christian Andersen and the Art of Storytelling for Adults

Registration is coming soon. Please check back on 01/27/2027

About This Event

Hans Christian Andersen and the Art of Storytelling for Adults

Most audiences know Hans Christian Andersen through familiar, child-friendly adaptations, but his original tales were far richer and more complex. In this illustrated lecture, Dr. Ray Nault reintroduces Andersen as a storyteller for adults, using The Little Mermaid as a lens for exploring themes of identity, sacrifice and transformation. Attendees will follow the story through 10 striking original lithographs by Danish printmaker Lars Bo, examining the symbolism and emotional depth of his interpretations. Nault also introduces the art of copper etching while placing Bo's work within a wider artistic tradition. Drawing on six years of research in Andersen's hometown of Odense, Denmark, and his international exhibitions of Bo's work, Nault offers a unique blend of literary insight, art history and personal experience that reveals Andersen's enduring relevance across generations and cultures.

Each ticket includes a free meal (vegetarian and gluten-free options available).
Meal service begins at 6:00 p.m.
Speaker presentation begins at 7:00 p.m.

About This Event

Hans Christian Andersen and the Art of Storytelling for Adults

Most audiences know Hans Christian Andersen through familiar, child-friendly adaptations, but his original tales were far richer and more complex. In this illustrated lecture, Dr. Ray Nault reintroduces Andersen as a storyteller for adults, using The Little Mermaid as a lens for exploring themes of identity, sacrifice and transformation. Attendees will follow the story through 10 striking original lithographs by Danish printmaker Lars Bo, examining the symbolism and emotional depth of his interpretations. Nault also introduces the art of copper etching while placing Bo's work within a wider artistic tradition. Drawing on six years of research in Andersen's hometown of Odense, Denmark, and his international exhibitions of Bo's work, Nault offers a unique blend of literary insight, art history and personal experience that reveals Andersen's enduring relevance across generations and cultures.

Each ticket includes a free meal (vegetarian and gluten-free options available).
Meal service begins at 6:00 p.m.
Speaker presentation begins at 7:00 p.m.

Getting There

Venetian Center
1 Dozier Circle
Leesburg, Florida 34748
United States