St. Petersburg 1868

Charles George Lewis created this sketchbook, titled "St. Petersburg," during the late 19th century. It offers us a glimpse into the world seen through the eyes of a British artist amidst a period of intense social and political change across Europe. Sketchbooks are intimate objects, often serving as spaces for artists to record personal observations and ideas. This one possibly documents Lewis’ travels. The label on the cover indicates a journey through St. Petersburg, Finland and Stockholm in September 1868. As we consider the pages within, reflect on how travel during this era was shaped by class and access. The ability to journey across countries was a privilege, influencing the artist's perspective and the subjects they chose to depict. How might Lewis’ identity as a British artist have shaped his interpretation of these foreign landscapes and cultures? What stories do these sketches tell, and whose voices might be missing from this visual record?