AN American TV crew filmed a popular talk at The Wharf on Monday as part of an advertising show reel.

The Blanchard Media crew filmed the 60-strong audience and conducted interviews after the talk by Dr Geri Parlby, which focussed on the history of medicine in art.

Jane Blanchard, director of Blanchard Media, said: 'The Wharf is a real gem of a venue.

'We were immediately struck by the warm welcome and great atmosphere.

'Tavistock is extremely lucky to have such a fantastic place for a whole range of community events.

'On a personal level, filming at The Wharf was a delight, with helpful technical staff making our job so much easier.

'All in all, a great day.'

During the talk, organised as part of the Friends of The Wharf Lunchtime Lectures, art historian Dr Parlby explained to the audience that for more than 5,000 years, artists have been attempting to depict illness and healing in their art.

From Egyptian wall paintings, medieval manuscripts, Renaissance masterpieces, and 19th and 20th century realism, the mysteries of medicine have inspired artworks around the world.

Dr Parlby said after the talk: 'As a professional lecturer I have travelled all over the world giving talks on art history, but I never cease to be impressed with what we have on our own doorstep thanks to the Friends of the Wharf.

'Thanks to the hard work, inspiration and dedication of the Friends of the Wharf team, so ably headed up by Dr Ann Pulsford, the Friends' weekly lectures have become famous across the South West with people travelling miles to hear some of the excellent speakers. 

'To quote one of the audience members —"The Wharf talks are an oasis in the desert".'