The Hannibal Arts Council will present its 13th Annual Art History Luncheon at noon on Thursday, September 10 at the Hannibal Arts Council, 105 S. Main St. Designed to fit neatly into a workday lunch hour, this special program invites guests to learn, connect, and be inspired by the world of art—all while enjoying a delicious themed meal. Tickets are available at 2026-Art-History-Luncheon Tickets
This year’s luncheon will spotlight the life and times of notable American landscape, portrait, and genre painter James Carroll Beckwith (1852–1917), who was born in Hannibal. Beckwith studied at the prestigious National Academy of Design in New York before continuing his artistic training in Paris under renowned French master Carolus-Duran alongside fellow American artist John Singer Sargent. Beckwith’s Naturalist style, technical skill, and sophisticated portraiture earned him widespread recognition in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries as an important figure in American art. Former Hannibal resident Jim Roller will present a fascinating biographical program exploring Beckwith’s life, artistic achievements, connections to Hannibal and enduring impact on American art history.
Prior to the presentation, guests will enjoy a French menu selected by The Food Crew to complement the program’s theme and to recognize Beckwith’s time in Paris. The luncheon will feature Poulet Rôti aux Herbs avec Pilaf de Riz (Herb Roasted Chicken with Rice Pilaf), Haricorts Verts (Green Beans), Focaccia de Ciels Bleus (Blue Skies Focaccia), Gâteau Citrouille de MJ (MJ’s Pumpkin Cake), with beverages included.
Tickets are $25 for the general public and $20 for HAC members. Seating is limited and advanced purchase is required by Tuesday, September 8. For tickets, go online to 2026 Art History Luncheon Tickets, call 573-221-6545, or stop by 105 S Main St (Noon-5pm Monday-Friday).
