William Welsh Rough

Dr William Welsh Rough is a Lecturer in the School of Art History at the University of St Andrews. He holds a PhD in Art History (2010) and a Postgraduate Diploma in Museum and Gallery Studies (2016). His research focuses on 19th-century British art, theatre, and printmaking, with particular emphasis on Walter Sickert and the etching revival. He has held roles including Learning and Engagement Officer (2015–2018) and Operations Manager (2018–2021) at HMS Unicorn in Dundee.

Education:

• PhD in Art History, University of St Andrews (2010)
• Postgraduate Diploma in Museum and Gallery Studies (2016)

Research Interests:

• British art-theatre intersections in the long 19th century
• 19th-century printmaking techniques
• Walter Sickert’s artistic legacy
• Music hall culture and its social impact

His publications explore Sickert’s works, music hall tragedies, and printmaking history, contributing to journals like the Burlington Magazine and British Art Journal. Notable projects include the AHRC-funded Orchar Collection website and co-leadership of the 'Phenomenal Bodies' disability-in-art initiative.

Teaching & Grants:

• Coordinates the MA Combined Studies Course since 2001
• Recipient of a £2,025 Carnegie Trust grant (2014–2015) for the Orchar Collection project

Labs/Teams:

• Co-leads the Digital Art History MLitt program
• Co-directs the 'Phenomenal Bodies: Exploring Disability in Scottish Academic Collections' project with Dr Emily Hanson