'Icons to Androids: How Human Figures Shape Our World' Webinar

From ancient idols to modern androids, human-like figures have always held a mirror to society’s values and aspirations. But how have they influenced our understanding of humanity, technology, and the future? Get ready to uncover the fascinating story of these creations and their lasting impact on art, industry, and culture.

Join New York Adventure Club as we explore the evolution of human-like figures throughout history, and how they’ve been used to reflect societal ideals, entertain the masses, and push the boundaries of technology.

Led by historian Lucy Jane Santos, our unique virtual experience will include:

• A look at how ancient civilizations used statues and idols to embody cultural values and religious beliefs
• The evolution of automatons and robots, and their impact on industry, entertainment, and our vision of the future
• An exploration of waxworks and their role in preserving likenesses for art, education, and public fascination
• The significance of mannequins in fashion and retail, and how they influence consumer behavior and trends
• A discussion on the future of human-like figures in society, from virtual avatars to advanced AI, and their potential to redefine what it means to be human

Afterward, we'll have a Q&A session with Lucy — any and all questions are welcomed and encouraged!

Can't make it live? Don't worry, you'll have access to the full replay for one week!

See you there, virtually!

*Immediately upon registering, you will receive a separate, automated email containing the link to join this webinar

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***A full replay of the experience will be available to all registered guests for up to a week

****If the event has already passed, but it's been less than a week, you can still register for it on our website's active replay section!

About Lucy

Specialising in the late 19th and early 20th century Lucy Jane Santos is a freelance historian and consultant uncovering the hidden stories of how science and technology have transformed daily life, especially when it comes to innovations in beauty practices.

After completing a BA in Egyptian Archaeology and a MA in Museum and Heritage Management Lucy worked for several private members clubs and societies including The Arts Club, the Authors’ Club, The Gourmet Society and the International Wine and Food Society.

She has been a judge for the Historical Writers’ Association Non-Fiction Crown, the recipient of the Stephen Joseph Research Award and was the Non-Fiction Writer In Residence for the Stay-at-Home! International Literature Festival. She is a founder of the Art Deco Society UK and co-founder of the Cosmetic History and Makeup Studies Network.

Lucy has appeared as a contributor on TV and radio, and her historical research has been featured by History Today, BBC History Revealed, Jezebel, LitHub, New York Post, Vogue, and on the BBC2 documentary, Makeup: A Glamorous History. Her most recent consultancy project was as historian for the Value of Beauty campaign, which aimed to raise awareness of the importance of the beauty and personal care value chain in Europe, organised by an alliance which includes L’Oréal and Beiersdorf.

Her debut, was shortlisted for the 2021 BSHS Hughes Prize which recognises books that communicate the history of science in an engaging and accessible way to non-specialists. Her latest book, was published in 2024. Lucy is currently working on Nobody's Perfect: On the Set of Some Like It Hot, which will be released in 2026.

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Categories: Virtual, Moments in History

Event Venue

Online