CMSAG2019

17th ANNIVERSARY EXHIBITION OF THE CRADLEY, MATHON AND STORRIDGE ART GROUP 2019

The Cradley, Mathon and Storridge Art Group (CMSAG) held its 17th Anniversary Exhibition at Mathon Parish Hall on Saturday, 19th and Sunday, 20th October 2019.

We did not hold a Preview Evening for members of the Parish Hall Committee and other local dignitaries and friends. Instead, as last year, we had an Arty Party on the Saturday evening for the Group members and invited guests from the Parish and outside. Sadly only a few of theguests turned up. (We will have to rethink our policy on invitations for future exhibitions.) Margaret Ainscough served up a marvelous buffet and, with the wine, the party was a great success It was a truly happy occasion – an opportunity to chat and enjoy each other’s company … and the paintings.

This year the weather was so so but that didn’t stop some 130 visitors over the two days coming to Mathon to see our work. There was a continuous happy buzz throughout especially on the Sunday afternoon. Bacon butties were again provided by a roster of members and the cakes came from Margaret Ainscough.

The "poll" for "the picture you liked best" again aroused intrigue and excitement among the artists and public alike! As ever, 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 very close. This year Mary Vivian’s delightful Pond at Castlemorton, a picture in our calendar, won. There was a tie for second place. Joy Perkins’ majestic Prince at Work drew with Barbara Hilton’s Sea Loch, Eribole. Wintry Malverns by David Partington was third. Great stuff! Well done, all of you!

We had 70 plus pictures on display this 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! WJC