We love the sound of this short series of talks: three writers on writing about art, at the National Gallery over three Friday evenings at the end of June and into July. Sounds serious? Don’t be misled: these are not academic talks about process, technique or theory. Instead, the talks are inspired by personal reactions to works of art, with each writer discussing their experiences in front of paintings and sculptures – the feelings such works illicit, the thoughts they can trigger – and how the writer has incorporated such reactions into their work. It’s a good subject, and one that everyone can relate to. Even better, the speakers are great. We’ve heard Edmund de Waal and Hilary Mantel speak before and both are riveting to listen to, bringing humour and the lightest of touches to serious subjects (and if you haven’t read de Waal’s The Hare with Amber Eyes, then you must, must, must. Likewise, Mantel’s Bring up the Bodies we can’t stop raving about). James Elkins we haven’t heard, but look forward to discovering. Tickets cost just £6 a pop, and the talks last an hour, ending at 7.30pm, just in time for supper or a lovely summer walk in town. Best book tickets immediately.