The last few weeks have have seen us busy with some group activities in addition to our personal projects. A number of us managed some very presentable still life sketches, something which we plan to make a regular part of the sessions. Also, over the last few weeks, one member has demonstrated a watercolour wash technique, which proved very popular, enjoyable and successful.
New term started last week with some new members and lots of enthusiasm. With the current wintery weather we have lots of inspiration locally for some great art work
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.
All set for the exhibition, which opens at 11.00 tomorrow.
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.