CMSAG2013

11th ANNIVERSARY EXHIBITION OF THE CRADLEY, MATHON AND STORRIDGE ART GROUP

The Cradley, Mathon and Storridge Art Group (CMSAG) held its 11th Anniversary Exhibition at Mathon Parish Hall on Saturday, 12th and Sunday, 13th October 2013.

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

This year the weather was not good. In fact it was diabolical. Perhaps that was why the numbers were down on previous years. We had about 80 through the doors over the two days and we were grateful to them for braving the rain and wind. Picture sales were down or even non-existent – but that’s not what it’s about (is it?). A new venture was the calendar comprising 12 paintings by members of the group. It was popular and sold quickly.

A few copies remain. The "poll" for "the picture you liked best" again aroused intrigue and excitement and that was just among the artists! As before, it was not meant to be a vote for 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. There was a lot of interest and the "contest" was closely fought. This year David Partington’s "Pioneers" – an amazing monocolour of early mountaineers - got the most votes with Mary Vivian’s lovely watercolour of Cradley Village Hall second. Barbara Hilton’s atmospheric watercolour of Ross over the River was third. Well done!

This year the refreshments, tea, coffee and cakes and the traditional bacon butties went down well with the 80 or so who came to see us. We had 54 pictures on display, fewer than last year. That the standard of work was high was a repeated comment. We all certainly seem to have come on.

Mathon Parish Hall is a splendid venue to show off our work and it was a fine display in a lovely setting.

We’ve haven’t held any tutorials this year and that is something to think about for the coming year. The weather restricted painting outside early in the summer but we have had a couple of sessions outdoors on the non-meeting Wednesdays. The average attendance at sessions is around 14 – 15 – a comfortable and happy roomful. 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.

WJC