Dr Sophie Oosterwijk

Sophie was born in Gouda (Netherlands) and studied English at Leiden and Medieval Studies at York; she has two doctorates in Art History (Leicester) and English Literature (Leiden). She is a recognised specialist in European art, especially of the medieval and baroque periods, and previously taught art history at the Universities of Leicester, Manchester and St Andrews. 

Since her return to the Netherlands, Sophie has been working as a freelance researcher, tour leader and guest lecturer for the University of Cambridge, The Arts Society (formerly NADFAS), and other organisations. She is also Vice President of The Church Monuments Society and has published widely, especially on death, the danse macabre and commemorative art. Sophie is a lively and entertaining speaker who enjoys sharing her insights in art within its historical and cultural context.