Our annual exhibition, held for the second year running in the Pheasantry at Haddo, was very well attended (136 visitors over the three days, not counting dogs!). There were 52 paintings on display, covering a wide range of styles and medium, reflecting the artistic diversity which we are lucky to have in our group. This also makes for a display appealing to a wide range of tastes; from toddlers to elderly, from dog walkers splashing in to escape the frequent showers to the intended visitors, there was a lot of interest and discussion.
Why not combine a walk amongst the beautiful autumn colours at Haddo with the chance to take a look at some of our work. See the poster below for details.
Our annual Macmillan Coffee Morning was, as always, an enjoyable event, where we socialise over home bakes and coffee, and sometimes do a little bit of art! As we now have five new members, it was an ideal time to get to know one another. This year, we also had an Art Book Stall which proved quite popular. We managed to raise over £230, a brilliant effort – thanks to everyone who contributed.
Looking forward to the new term which starts this week. Sadly, we will be saying goodbye to some members who are moving on, but are hopeful that we will see some new faces bringing new skills and perspectives; everyone has some artistic ability which meeting together and exchanging ideas encourages us to explore.
The six weeks of mixed summer weather have given us inspiration for our autumn projects. Some of us met up in Aden park during that time and though no-one sketched or painted, it was an enjoyable social time in a lovely setting.
Here’s one done earlier! Aden Park in Autumn
On a second outing, some members met to appreciate the wealth of art on offer in the beautiful setting of Aberdeen Art Gallery. One member was inspired to write the following verses about the trip:-
Impressions of Aberdeen Art Gallery by Barbara Cork
You’ll find pottery glass and textiles, Each in its own different style As well as a wide range of paintings, Some poignant, some make you smile.
These paintings by great masters, Created, designed to last, Are an insight into our history, Informing us of our past.
Portraits of high and mighty, Men in flamboyant dress, Standing tall, looking austere In paintings designed to impress.
Victoria and Albert resplendent Look down on their subjects below, There’s a family group at a baptism And folk flooded, with nowhere to go.
James McBey, inspired by the coast Of Newburgh from whence he came, Travelled afar to the Middle East To develop his skill and fame.
There’s also the age of empowerment, Women’s skills at long last accepted, No longer named as ‘anonymous’ But recognised, valued, respected.
There are different aspects of Aberdeen And the work force’s daily toil In Aberdeen’s three renowned industries Of granite, fishing and oil.
There is stormy weather in Iona, Bright painted boats out at sea, Tranquillity at Ailsa Craig, I know where I’d rather be.
There is abstract art, not desired by all, With its blobs of colour and lines, That some find bizarre and non-sensical While others see marvellous designs.
There are so many wonderful works to see Of which you will never tire. Whatever your taste in art work, You’ll find something there to inspire.
Congratulations to group member, Barbara Cork who won a special voucher award sponsored by the Wallace Smith Gallery at this years New Pitsligo Visual Arts Exhibition for her painting ”Near Elgin”. She joins growing number of our members who have had success in this and other exhibitions.
We are blessed with an interesting variety of galleries in our area, and there is always somewhere to go for new ideas. Aberdeen Art Gallery is well worth a visit; both permanent and temporary exhibitions are always excellent, and there are also some interesting workshops to inspire.
Another art treat in store is the Gray’s School of Art Degree Show, which runs from June 10th – 17th. Go along to RGU and have a look at what young artists are doing: there is so much variety out there.
