CARDIFF.- Legendary New York photographer Diane Arbus will be the focus of a free public talk organised by independent charity The Art Fund to be held at National Museum Cardiff on Thursday 9 July.

In this special Artist in Conversation event, renowned British photographer David Hurn will discuss Arbus’ work, life and legacy. Hurn met Arbus in the 1970s and his talk will offer the audience a first-hand perspective of the photographer. He will speak alongside V&A Curator of Photographs Martin Barnes, who curated the museum’s 2005 exhibition Diane Arbus Revelations.

Diane Arbus (1923 – 1971) is most famous for her portraits of nudists, circus performers, middle class families and zealots.in 1950s and 1960s America.

The event was set up in conjunction with the Diane Arbus exhibition currently on view at National Museum Cardiff, as part of ARTIST ROOMS on Tour with The Art Fund.

ARTIST ROOMS is a new national collection of post-war and contemporary art created by dealer and collector Anthony d’Offay. The collection – which comprises individual rooms devoted to particular artists – is jointly owned by National Galleries of Scotland and Tate on behalf of the nation.

With support from The Art Fund, and in Scotland the Scottish government, over 30 ARTIST ROOMS are being shown in venues throughout the UK this year, with more planned for 2010.

Guests are invited to a drinks reception before the event, with the opportunity to enjoy a private view of the exhibition.

Tickets are free but booking is essential.