CMSAG2016

14th ANNIVERSARY EXHIBITION OF THE CRADLEY, MATHON AND STORRIDGE ART GROUP

The Cradley, Mathon and Storridge Art Group (CMSAG) held its 14th Anniversary Exhibition at Mathon Parish Hall on Saturday, 22nd and Sunday, 23rd October 2016.

On the Friday night there was our usual Preview Evening to which we had invited members of the Parish Hall Committee 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. Disappointingly, it was not as well attended by guests or club members as we would have hoped. Nevertheless it was a very pleasant evening.

This year the weather was good and we had around 160 visitors over the two days. There was a continual happy buzz throughout. Bacon butties were again 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. This year Diane Poole’s "Poppies" – a charming picture in her characteristic style of a field of poppies – won. Mary Vivian’s delightful portrait of her dog and Frank Rabin’s winter landscape "Off to Work" tied for second place. A very evenly divided contest showing how good all the paintings were. Well done, all of you!

We had 55 pictures on display, three less than last year. "The standard of work is high" was a repeated comment. As I say each year, it just gets better and better! No sign of it slowing down.

The average attendance at sessions stays at around 12 to 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 and see what fun it is!