CMSAG2015

13th ANNIVERSARY EXHIBITION OF THE CRADLEY, MATHON AND STORRIDGE ART GROUP

The Cradley, Mathon and Storridge Art Group (CMSAG) held its 13th Anniversary Exhibition at Cradley Village Hall on Saturday, 24th and Sunday, 25th October 2015.

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 and the paintings. It was a very pleasant evening. We actually sold a number of paintings, something almost unheard of at previous previews!

This year the weather was good and we had around over 150 visitors. There was a continual happy buzz throughout. This year bacon butties were provided by a roster of members and the cakes came from Margaret White. The "poll" for "the picture you liked best" again aroused intrigue and excitement among the artists and public alike! 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 counted. There was a lot of interest and the "contest" was again closely fought with no outright "winner". This year Maureen Scott’s "Fox in a Dustbin" – a charming picture of a fox scavenging tied with Wendy Britton's Jack at Night, a striking and delightful horses head starkly silhouetted on a black background. Diane Poole and Liz Symonds tied for second place. A very evenly divided contest showing how good all the paintings were. Well done, all of you!

We had 58 pictures on display, three more than last year. "The standard of work is high" was a repeated comment. Like I said last year, it just gets better and better! No sign of it slowing down.

We have held a couple of tutorials/workshops this year and they were enjoyed by all. The weather was kinder and we held outdoor sessions on the non-meeting Wednesdays. The average attendance at sessions stays around 14 – a comfortable and happy roomful. We remain a very friendly and supportive group. A number of newcomers have joined us; fresh blood providing a challenge and a stimulus. If you would like to join us, you will be made very welcome. Come along to a session at Storridge Village Hall on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month from 2 – 4 pm.

WJC