CMSAG2009

7th ANNIVERSARY EXHIBITION OF THE CRADLEY, MATHON AND STORRIDGE ART GROUP

The Cradley, Mathon and Storridge Art Group (CMSAG) held its 7th Anniversary Exhibition at Cradley Village Hall on Saturday, 24th and Sunday, 25th October 2009.

On the Friday night there was our usual Preview Evening to which we had invited members of the Parish Hall Committee, the Rector and his wife and other local dignitaries. Wine and nibbles were served and it was a happy occasion – a chance to chat and enjoy each other’s company.

The exhibition opened on Saturday at 10.30 am and continued until 4.30 pm. And on Sunday we opened from 10.30 am to 2.30 pm. This latter was something new for this year - a second day. It was an experiment and we were not sure whether there would be enough interest to sustain two days. As it turned out, it was a great success and there was a steady flow of visitors on both days - despite the big wedding which took place at St James church on the Saturday. Parking for that afternoon was difficult to say the least. Nevertheless, people found their way past the wedding party to the Hall.

Another innovation this year was the introduction of a "poll" for "the picture you liked best." It was not meant to be the "best picture" but rather the "favourite picture." Visitors were given a raffle ticket and were asked to write on the back the number of their favourite picture. At the end of the exhibition the tickets were sorted and a "winner" was found. It generated a lot of interest and the contest was closely fought. In the end, David Partington’s picture, Fastnet Race, got the most votes with June Cutler’s Sunset and Margaret White’s Billy Puffin close behind.

The craft stalls were popular and sales made it worthwhile supporting our exhibition. This year we had 55 pictures, a little less than last year. They looked good on the display boards and the walls and the beautiful Village Hall was a lovely setting for our work. Visitors commented on the high standard of work and a good number of pictures were sold.

7 years old – we are growing up and it shows. Our skills have come along nicely. This year we have had an excellent day workshop on painting water in watercolours given by the Forest of Dean artist, Marianna Robinson, which those who attended found very helpful. The weather restricted painting outside but we have had very good sessions on the Wednesday meetings. We remain a very friendly and supportive group. If you would like to join us, and you will be made very welcome if you do, come along to a meeting at Storridge Village Hall on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month.

Next year, for the 8th Anniversary Exhibition, we hope to be back at Mathon Parish Hall.

WJC