Welcome to the latest edition of your newsletter.

Looking back for a moment at the Group’s Annual Exhibition in August, although there were less visitors and sales than in previous years, the general comment was exhibits not only gave a great variety to view but also were of such a high standard. This made it especially hard to choose a favourite. However the result saw:

Simon Sawyer’s ‘Tail of the Hurricane’ and Carole Massey’s ‘Gambian Elder’ as joint favourite with prize presented to both at Tuesday evening meeting.

Congratulations to you both.

In September it was back to Tuesday evening meetings with the first being Claudia Myatt demonstration  ‘Anglo Saxon art and how to experiment with pattern in watercolour’.  As well as showing members how they might approach creating such art, Claudia gave a short Power Point presentation taking us on a journey of various examples of the art through the ages and how it relates to other artwork of a similar nature.

Our thanks to Claudia for an informative, interesting demonstration in her usual relaxed way. More of her work can be seen at her studio during November. Details later in this newsletter.

Next demonstration also delivered in a relaxed, informative way was Carole Massey’s demonstration ‘Autumn leaves in watercolour pencils’. Most appropriate subject as we move into the cooler, colourful days of this season.  Various techniques were shown along with information about the various types of watercolour pencils she uses.

During the evening Carole was not only presented with her Annual Exhibition favourite painting prize but also a thank you gift for donating some display panels to the Group. They will be put to good use for sure.

Carole also announced her Group President’s Challenge ‘A portrait of someone you know’ – human or animal, Any medium, size 12″ x 16″max. No need to be framed, just mounted.

Winner of the challenge (chosen by Carole) will be announced and prize awarded at the final evening meeting of year at Broadway House on Tuesday 10th December.

Members now look forward to the untutored work evening on Tuesday 8th October, 7.30pm at Broadway House, to try out ideas shown at Claudia and/or Carole’s demonstrations. (Bring watercolours/watercolour pencils or preferred medium)

Please remember work evenings are untutored which means just that, no tutor (as are the painting sessions at the Conservative Club). Unfortunately several members have not taken this on board and looked upon such evenings as workshops. We have indeed organised Saturday workshops in the past, keeping cost as low as possible. Both Claudia and Carole offer their own workshops should you be interested.

Not wishing to dwell on this particular matter, let us move on to other meetings at Broadway House …..

Tuesday meetings at Broadway House, Orwell Road, Felixstowe. 7.30pm until 9.30pm

8th October – as stated earlier – Work Evening (Untutored) – follow on from Claudia and Carole’s demonstrations

22nd October – Life drawing, female model. (Untutored)

12th November – Anne Plummer – demonstration – ‘Calm waters in acrylic’

26th November – Work evening (Untutored) – follow on from Anne’s demonstration. Bring own acrylic materials (or preferred medium)

10th December – Chris Parfitt – illustrated presentation Peruvian crafts and paintings of this varied country. Plus Carole will announce her Group President’s Challenge favourite entry

Suffolk Living

As you will already know, Group’s use pf exhibition space downstairs concludes on Monday 30th September. Please ensure all work is collected either on Sunday 29th September (12.00-3.00pm) or Monday 30th September (11.00am-3.00pm)

Other events

October

1st until 31st October – Anthony Osler is exhibiting his paintings at Suffolk Living, Hamilton Road, Felixstowe during normal opening hours. There is also an invitation to an evening viewing with drinks and nibbles on Tuesday 1st October from 6.00 until 9.00pm

November

9th/10th and 16th/17th November – Claudia Myatt is holding an Open Studio event 10.00am until 4.00pm each day at Hall Farm, Church Lane, Martlesham IP12 4PQ

Saturday 23rd November – Group members mini exhibition at Old Felixstowe Community Centre,10.00am until 4.00pm.

• • Set up 9.00am.
  • Tables supplied along with table top easels (may provide your own table top easel if you wish)
  • Work shown at Annual Exhibition, Art on Prom and Gallery may be exhibited.
  • Up to 3 framed/3D works per member, £1 per entry.
  • Up to 3 unframed originals, prints, or mix of both, may be entered.
  • Members to write their own labels
  • Members may bring 10 of 2 designs of their own cards.
  • As with Annual Exhibition cards to be sold at £2 each
  • Sold work to be taken at point of sale

Important: Your name, contact number, title of work, price, medium, size to be received by Tuesday 12thNovember in order work can be logged plus how many exhibits to cater for.

Details of where to send on page 3 will not appear on Group’s website to ensure no issues with ‘fishing’

That now leaves me to say ……..

Enjoy your journey in art

Yvonne (Chairman)

As I sit at my desk tapping keys the Annual Exhibition is drawing to a close. Many visitors commented on the quality and diversity of work and best exhibition yet. This is most encouraging.

People’s favourite painting is at the moment a photo finish with two works equal plus two more hot on their heels! Final result will be announced at the Group’s Tuesday evening meeting in September. Details of these meetings later as I need to give information on forthcoming exhibiting events so please note these events in your diary or on your calendar, or both to ensure recorded!

Conservative Club Art and Craft day

This event takes place on Sunday 25th August 10.00am until 4.00pm and members are invited to exhibit their work in the room we hold afternoon painting sessions. If you would like to exhibit then do pop along on Thursday, 15th August or Thursday 22nd August 2.00-4.00pm and speak to Helen and team about booking/checking space availability plus details when to bring work in.

Suffolk Living Gallery space

As reported in previous newsletter we will be vacating Suffolk Living Gallery space as proprietors Francis and Karen need space to generate more revenue for their business. Therefor details of final changeover are:

• Details of work to be exhibited giving your name, title, price and size must be placed in the box provided under the bench in the gallery with Group notices on by Thursday 15th August.
• Delivery of works to galley on Wednesday 21st August 10.15 until 11.45am.
• Payment of £1 per work (maximum 2 works) to be made when delivering works on 21st August
• Final day of exhibiting will be Saturday 28th September
• Collection of work on Sunday 29th and Monday 30th September.

Art on the Prom Sunday 1st September

We have been fortunate to have a last-minute booking in the Leisure Centre where the Guide Dogs Association hold their Art and Craft event to coincide with Art on the Prom.

If you would like to exhibit and don’t already have your own stand at Art on the Prom, then please get in touch using one of the phone numbers on the back of your programme. Two works per member and as space will be limited, please avoid large work. Unframed as well as framed welcome.

When contacting to book space (plus stewarding slot) please give your name, title of work and price so each work can be logged. Depending on how many members support this event then stewarding during 10.00-4.00pm will hopefully be limited to just an hour or so. To cover cost of stand it will be £1 per work.

Lastly …….. Work to be brought along between 9.00-9.30am.

One more event planned …….

Saturday 23rd November 10.00am- 4.00pm

Group are presenting a one-day exhibition at Old Felixstowe Community Centre

Details will be forthcoming in September/October newsletter.

Now to Group’s Programme of demonstrations etc at Broadway House –

Broadway House, Orwell Road, Felixstowe, Tuesday evening meetings

Members £1 Visitors £2

Tuesday 10th September 7.30pm

Claudia Myatt will be demonstrating ‘Anglo Saxon Art and how to experiment with pattern in watercolour’. Claudia will also be including a short illustrated presentation’

During the evening the winner of Annual Exhibition People’s Favourite painting will be announced and presented with Group’s Perpetual Trophy plus a prize.

Tuesday 24th September 7.30pm

Carole Massey will be demonstrating ‘Autumn leaves in watercolour pencils’

Carole, Group’s President, will announce her President’s challenge topic along with details of where to send etc.

Tuesday 8th October 7.30pm

Untutored work evening for members. This is opportunity to put into practice ideas from Claudia’s and Carole’s demonstrations. Please bring own watercolours/watercolour pencils or your preferred medium.

I think that is enough information to be going on with for now!

Thursday art afternoons at Conservative Club 2.00-4.00pm

£2 per afternoon inclusive of refreshments

The change to occupying a ground level room has proved very popular plus being able to use the side gate rather than trail through the bar area and disturb drinkers and the bridge club is much appreciated.

For those new to Felixstowe Art Group, members work on their own projects with help on hand from other members if needed. Magazines are available to use if perhaps you feel you would like inspiration to move forward with an idea.

A big plus being downstairs is that with the patio doors opened there is the opportunity to work outside during the warmer months. Perhaps sketch or paint some of the flowers and foliage around the green area; Or perhaps the building itself or those that surround it? Look up and capture the atmosphere of the sky. Ideas abound to be creative.

Above all ……….

Enjoy your journey in art, wherever it may take you

Yvonne

(Chairman)

As in previous years, Group’s 2024 AGM was well attended, so thank you to all who were able to come along and hear a variety of reports (short!) and news etc plus the Annual Exhibition poster competition voting took place. Members favourite was by Tom Catchpole, who was presented with the perpetual trophy plus a prize. Linda Evans as runner up was also presented with a prize.

The evening was also an opportunity to meet committee members including Tony Osler who was formally voted as Programme secretary. My thanks to committee for gift presented to me following standing down as Programme secretary and Publicity.

The Group’s Committee now comprise of the following –

• Chairman/members newsletter – Yvonne Smart
• Vice Chairman – Jim Lait
• Hon. Treasurer – David Tennant
• Group secretary – Gillian Lait * – Gillian’s role will be members newsletter distribution
• Hon. assistant secretary – Steve Smart * – Steve role will be dealing with printing matters.
• Membership secretary – Liz D’arville
• Programme secretary – Anthony Osler
• Publicity – Janet Woodard
• Gallery manager – Yvonne Smart
• Exhibition manager – Jim Lait
• Exhibition administrator – Liz D’arville
• Exhibition admin. assistant – Yvonne Smart
• Tuesday evening technician – Graham Ellis assisted by Janet Woodard
• Social secretaries – Yvonne Smart and Liz D’arville
• General assistance – Helen Daniel and Tracy Laudat*
• *Co-opted at a committee meeting after AGM

Non committee

• Painting/drawing sessions at Conservative Club admin – Margery Shaw

Painting/drawing Thursday afternoons 2.00-4.00pm at Conservative Club

The move downstairs, co-ordinated by Helen Daniel, took place on 23rd May. And thanks to Con. Club manager, for preparing room. Be assured this was greatly appreciated Mike.

As many members already know, to absorb the increase in hire fee (regardless of where we were located) the discount prepayment has been discontinued and members now pay £2 per week.

Once prepayment has run out (if not already) then when signing in please pay your £2 each week you attend. This will reduce the time and effort required to ensure records are kept in order which, no doubt, you will agree is a good thing.

Many thanks for embracing this change and we hope you will not only enjoy having everything on one level, space for notices, magazines etc etc, but also on warm summer days the opportunity to open up the patio doors and paint/draw outside if you wish.

Broadway House Tuesday evening meetings – Members £1. Visitors £2 (includes refreshments)

Once again, the Zentangle session was a most relaxing evening with Gillian guiding everyone through the various stages to produce work. Do take a look attachment showing the collective results of the evening.

11th June 7.30pm – Tony Osler demonstrating ‘Bringing sea to life in watercolour’. Session includes how to form waves from calm to wild, creating mood and atmosphere.

25th June 7.30pm – Members only untutored work evening. Opportunity to follow on from Gillian and Tony’s sessions. Please bring own drawing materials or watercolours (or preferred medium)

Leaping forward to 24th September Carole Massey will be presenting a demonstration plus revealing the topic for her President’s Challenge. This was very popular last year and will no doubt be equally supported by members this year. Winner, chosen by Carole, will be presented with a prize at the meeting on 10th December.

Design a charity Christmas card.

Yes, I know, we are not even into summer yet! However, before moving on to further Group activities, I was contacted by Caroline Sturman of Breast Friends who, after the success of last year, would like to once again sell a Christmas card designed by a local artist to raise funds for the charity.

Further details can be found at breastfriends.co.uk. Deadline for entries Friday 20th July.

Another deadline for you –

Annual Exhibition

Entry forms to be sent to Exhibition administrator, Liz D’arville, by Sunday 30th June. Contact details on form.

Gallery space at Suffolk Living

As reported at AGM, Karen and Francis need to generate more revenue from basement space so it is with regret we will be vacating on – Monday 30th September. Collection of work to be made between 11.00am and 2.00pm

There will be 2 more changeovers before vacating, the next one being – Wednesday 26th June, 10.15 until 11.45am. Details giving your name, title, price, medium and size of work to be exhibited by Thursday 20th June. Details can be left in box under bench displaying Group notices etc or hand in at a Tuesday evening meeting.  Pay £1 hanging fee per work when delivering on the 26th of June (max. number is two works)

Second (final one) changeover is planned for Wednesday 21st August, with deadline for entries Thursday 15th August.

Several members have enquired about securing own gallery premises. Unfortunately exploring this option has been like walking through treacle – with rent as such and other expenses, we would need to open at least 5 days per week, 10.00-4.00pm minimum and not ad hoc as was at Bent Hill. However hiring an empty shop for a week is a possibility – if anyone hears of anything which is situated within a reasonable footfall, then please do get in touch.

Remaining positive, since the AGM the committee have met in order to look at way forward with changes taking place. As mentioned earlier, at this meeting additional committee members were co-opted. A huge thank you for stepping forward to ensure the Group continues to provide artists, from novice to professional, to enjoy their journey in art.

As reported at AGM, some time ago Committee did speak about additional exhibitions, one in spring and anther late autumn, giving further opportunities for members to sell their work thus continue motivation to paint/draw rather than work stored under the bed etc, especially for members not exhibiting their work online as really only paint for pleasure and the chance to sell on occasion.

With this in mind, Group’s Annual Exhibition would be classified as our bells and whistles one whereby display boards etc are used which you no doubt appreciate requires more to organise. Additional exhibitions would be using tables and Group’s table top easels (members use own if preferred) plus members produce own labels either typed or neatly written. The same conditions would apply as in Annual Exhibition, ie. book in advance, £1 per work payable on the day, strung and taped accordingly. Unframed work could also be exhibited, same criteria as Annual Exhibition.

Venues currently being explored are Old Felixstowe Community Centre and Harvest House plus with room now downstairs and access via gate in car park, exhibitions are also a possibility at Conservative Club.

142 Gallery, Hamilton Road

Following enquiries by Tracy about using this venue, in principle we have been given a week sometime next year for an exhibition which will include free art workshops throughout the week. Sometime in September Tracy will be contacted with further information.

No doubt other ideas will surface for Group to participate, and I am sure volunteers will be forthcoming to assist to make it all happen.

Now with all these changes and ideas to overcome think a strong cup of tea is called for.

Yvonne

(Chairman)

Mosaic of Zentangle tiles produced during the workshop evening 28^th May 2024.

Welcome to your Group Members newsletter.  Although snowdrops now returning to their long sleep, drifts of yellow now are a joy to see, summer time begins and soon it will be Group’s AGM to round off the current programme year.

With this latest newsletter you will find two attachments relating to AGM and renewal ….. Agenda for forthcoming AGM on Tuesday 23rd April, 7.30pm at Broadway House, Orwell Road, Felixstowe and the Minutes of AGM 2023.

You will shortly, if not already, receive your Membership renewal form. I do hope you will be renewing for another year of demonstrations, talks, work evenings, painting sessions and exhibiting opportunities, However, in order for you to be aware of important changes please note –

During a committee meeting a while ago, discussion took place on the long standing issue of the perceived imbalance between the benefits enjoyed by members who attend the Thursday meetings and those who attend the Tuesday meetings, namely Thursday attendees pay for the privilege while the Tuesday evening meetings are free.

This imbalance also applies to exhibiting at the gallery where members pay a hanging fee whereas those that enter work to be hung at the Annual Exhibition do not.

The outcome from which it was unanimously decided to address this imbalance by introducing a £1 charge from May 2024 for Tuesday evening meetings with visitors charge to currently remain at £2 along with a hanging fee of £1 per work for the Annual Exhibition. Currently there will be no charge for unframed work and the three social activities, namely, Saturday New Year Social, Drawing challenge and Group’s AGM.

The committee feel it is a fair way to address this imbalance and sincerely hope this does not deter you renewing your membership and enjoying being a member of the Felixstowe Art Group.

Looking at other changes –

I am very pleased to say two volunteers stepped forward to assist the running of the Group. One further enquiry was received but subsequently withdrawn due to unexpected change of circumstances.

Publicity Secretary – Janet Woodard volunteered for this role plus Tuesday evening Technical Assistant. With no other volunteers coming forward, Janet was co-opted before AGM to commence producing articles for Spotlight/Flyer/ Town Council magazine, with immediate effect. Thank you Janet, it is greatly appreciated and a relief for this role to be filled.

Programme Secretary – Thank you Tony Osler for volunteering for this role assisted by myself. As with Janet, it is greatly appreciated and a relief for this role to be filled.

Group secretary – Disappointed this position remains unfilled.

Role of Group secretary

Unlike some organisations whereby the secretarial role requires a great deal of work, this role has been sliced down to ensure it is manageable with Liz D’arville dealing with website enquiries as they are 99% about membership with any other enquiries passed on to me in my role a Group’s Chairman. Bi-monthly newsletters plus supplements that may be required and venue bookings will also continue to be dealt with by me.

Role itself now consists of –

• Distribution via email members bi-monthly newsletters (and the very occasional supplement as required)
• Members not on email will currently be dealt with by David to hand deliver to local members and mail non-local
• Annual print run of Membership renewal forms / Annual Exhibition pack / Annual Exhibition favourite painting slip.
• From time to time, other printing requirements such as membership form needing to be restocked and could be shared with David Tennant if preferred.
• A wireless printer will be supplied and ink plus paper expenses covered.

This position could certainly be shared with one member dealing with distribution of newsletters and another member dealing with printing.

Please do give some serious thought about supporting the Group in this role.

Regarding committee meetings these have been reduced to one after the Annual Exhibition and the main AGM. Most matters are dealt with via email unless absolutely essential a face to face meeting is required.

Although I have spent some time endeavouring to set out information on above role without rambling, please use contact details on the back of your programme card or reply via Chris who is sending out this newsletter and will forward any question/offer of your help.

We cannot fully succeed running the Group to its full potential without you.

Suffolk Living gallery space

Thank you to members who submitted work at the latest changeover. Although sales are down it is good to know members are not discouraged to exhibit their work as it all helps to maintain a high profile of Group activities.

The next changeover will be Wednesday 8th May, 10.15 until 11.45am.

Details giving your name, title, price and medium can be left in box under bench in gallery area downstairs and will be required by Thursday 2nd May.

Tuesday evening Drawing challenge meeting

I am delighted to announce results of the various entries voted as members favourite –

Decorated letter of the alphabet  – Trophy and prize awarded to Gillian Lait with prize awarded to Gillian Richie as runner up

Pair of shoes – Trophy and prize awarded to Fran Hicks with prize awarded to Joanna Albareian as runner up

Set of keys – Trophy and prize awarded to Marina Jacobs with prize awarded to Rowena Kerslake as runner up.

The evening was very well attended and certainly worth the effort to organise. Another such evening is offered in the 2024/25 Tuesday evening programme.

Another much enjoyed evening was Chris Parfitt’s illustrated talk ‘Bhutan’s Arts and Crafts’. Not only did we view fine examples of art, including beautifully decorated buildings, inside and out, Chris also brought along a selection of craft work, such detail and combination of colours. Members found the evening most inspiring.

See you soon

Yvonne

(Chairman)

Welcome to first 2024 edition of Group Members newsletter. Do hope you had a pleasant Christmas and New Year, however spent. Now straight on to Art Group matters.

Suffolk Living gallery space

Recent changeover went smoothly. Sales are, along with many other art outlets and retail in general, now rather slow. However we thank members who exhibit so we can continue providing a variety of work and be a contact point for information such as membership. Speaking of membership there has been a number of people joining the Group – welcome to you all. Several came along to the New Year Social which was much enjoyed by members and their guests. Before moving on – Next changeover details for you to note in your diary:

• Thursday, 7th March 2024 – deadline for details to be received
• Wednesday 13th March – 10.15 – 11.45am – work to be handed in

As you know, in order to exhibit work in our Annual Exhibition – and Suffolk Living gallery space – your hung work must be tightly strung using not only picture nylon cord, but also D-rings – no eyelet or ‘saw’ fixings to be used.

We appreciate using D-rings can, on occasion, cause a thin frame to split but this can be resolved by a product called ‘Hang it’. These are clipped to the backing board and cord attached through the loops of the clip.

Suppliers of Hang it include Lamden Gallery, Felixstowe Road, Ipswich and Deben Frames in Martlesham, both relatively local plus several on line outlets, such as Lord of the Frames (previously D&S Frames) lordoftheframes.co.uk and key in Hang it. Clips come in two sizes suitable for 2mm backing board and 3mm backing board. Most popular are the 2mm.

We do hope you find the above helpful – thank you Liz, Group membership secretary and Annual Exhibition administrator for helping with gathering information on this.

Meetings at Broadway House, Orwell Road, 7.30pm

Our first meeting of the year was a great success with 26 people arriving to experience Zentangle. Gillian Lait, an accredited Zentangle tutor, led us gently through the process of producing various patterns. At times all went very quiet indeed as we immersed ourselves working. ……… You will be pleased to know that Gillian has been booked for Zentangle Part 2 on Tuesday 28th May!

Yes, I have already been working on the 2024/25 Group Programme and most dates have been filled with a variety of subjects plus, as requested, a couple more work evenings.

Current programmed meetings-

• Tuesday 13th February 7.30pm Tony Osler – demonstrating ‘Sand, pebbles and rocks in watercolour’
• Tuesday 27th February 7.30pm – Members drawing challenge – the 3 categories are – A decorated letter of the alphabet / A pair of shoes / A set of keys

Gentle reminder –

• Members may enter one drawing per category / Drawing to be produced in graphite pencil, ink or charcoal
• To remain incognito write your name and category on back of work only
• Each entry mounted but not framed up to max of 20″ x 16″ / Entries handed in at door by 7.40pm
• Please do not enter work that was in the 2023 Annual Exhibition

Not entering? Do still come along, vote for your favourite in each category, enjoy light refreshments as well as see who, in each category is awarded a trophy and prize and runner up awarded a prize.

Important – Forthcoming changes

As with many groups, change comes about, especially when volunteers, due for whatever reason,  need to stand down. Christopher Robinson, after a number of years, for personal reasons, is standing down as Group Secretary and Tuesday evening technician.

Group secretary: This is not as onerous as one might think as it now consists mainly of sending out, upon receipt from me, of members bi-monthly newsletters and any supplements which may be required if information needs to be circulated before next main newsletter.  Chris emails to members in about 4 batches so certainly does not mean sending individually, which would take far too much time! The minority of members not on email are sent hard copies.  Plus from time to time, printing items such as membership forms. Expenses such as ink and paper are reimbursed. The Group provide a printer.

Tuesday evening meetings: Along with Graham, Chris sets up screen, camera and projector as and when required at various, but not all, meetings. Graham has kindly agreed to take on main role but we still need a volunteer to assist him with room set up and often helping bring presenters equipment in but he cannot do it all on his own. Liz and myself pitch in with preparing refreshments area, shifting chairs etc as much as possible.

Publicity secretary: There have been several call outs for a volunteer which unfortunately still has not produced a response. I have been covering this role as and when possible, but the time has come for someone to step up. All we are asking is for someone to write a piece, limit 250 words, so not reams of text, with information of what Group are doing and send to Flyer and Spotlight once a month and quarterly article to Felixstowe Town Council newsletter which is about 350 words. Much of the information will of course be about programme, but could also include a short piece about presenter of talk/demo, Annual Exhibition, etc. so you won’t be short of material! Some previous articles as well as contact information will be passed on to you.

I will continue with posters etc for various information boards, and assist Liz with Annual Exhibition matters. Having someone deal with the monthly/quarterly matters will be a huge weight off my shoulders.

Programme secretary: Having completed the Group’s 2024/25 Tuesday evening programme, after 11 years in the role it is time for me to stand back and another member take the helm. As well as passing on current contact details etc I am happy to offer support floating ideas for subjects and presenters. This role could of course be carried out by a couple of friends working together. Once the programme is planned the information is sent to Liz D’arville for typing and printing ready for distribution. A copy also to me plus fee information in order to arrange payment.

Note 1 – Does not require booking venue. Dates would be sent to you

Note 2 – Not absolutely essential to attend Tuesday evening meetings if not always possible or if at all

Again, this would be a huge help to me personally as well as the Group for this role to be filled.

One final note – Committee meetings have been reduced to one after the Annual Exhibition and the main AGM Most matters are dealt with via email unless absolutely essential a face to face meeting is required.

Thanks go to members continuing their various roles in Thursday afternoon painting sessions at Conservative Club, Annual Exhibition, Membership, Treasurer, Web management, General assistance.

Although I have spent some time endeavouring to set out information on above roles without rambling, please use contact details on the back of your programme card or reply via Chris who is sending out this newsletter if any questions or to offer your help. We cannot fully succeed running the Group to its full potential without you.

Look forward to hearing from you.

Yvonne

(Chairman)

Hello and welcome to the last newsletter for 2023.

Although the year has brought much anxiety for many with regard to the economic situation we do hope you have found some respite from your art. We also hope the various Tuesday demonstrations and evening workshops have helped to rekindle any mojo that may have been lost on the way.

To help even more to keep momentum going a number of members were able to attend the Saturday Acrylic workshop with Carole Massey plus a pastel workshop with Teresa Seals. Two excellent tutors and a great opportunity to work with at a local venue. Do look up their website if you would like to find out more about both these artists.

Personally I have not worked much in either acrylics or pastels so great to have some guidance. Who knows, I may get to grips with both mediums and enter a masterpiece of each medium in the Annual Exhibition – well, may not be a masterpiece but hopefully presentable.

On that note, moving on to –

Tuesday evening meetings at Broadway House, Orwell Road, 7.30pm

The final meeting for 2023 will be on Tuesday 12th December when we welcome Ian Last who perhaps you have met at past Art on the Prom events. He will be demonstrating and offering Hints and tips on working in graphite pencil. Notebooks at the ready!

Carole Massey, Group President’s challenge – During part of the evening Carole will announce winner and award a prize supplied by her good self. She has said it will be difficult to choose!

Although Carole has printed out members work who have submitted their entries on line, there is nothing like seeing the real thing so do bring along your originals.

Now to 2024 –

Saturday 13th January 2.00 – 4.00pm – New Year Social afternoon for members and their guest(s)

• • Venue Memorial Hall, High Road, Trimley St Martin, IP11 0RJ (next door to Sports and Social Club)
  • Free on site parking behind the Hall. (Please avoid parking at the Social Club)
  • Bus stop nearby which is served by 75 and 77 buses.

The change to a Saturday afternoon for this social event, was very much welcomed last January and requested that it continue.  This free afternoon will consist of a raffle, plus a variety of entertaining activities (well, we hope they are!). Also being an afternoon, afternoon tea!

Please bring one small plate of goodies and if you could arrive about 1.45pm for a 2.00pm start that would be good. Soft drinks, tea and coffee will be supplied by the Group.

Back to subject of demonstrations –

The first meeting of 2024 at Broadway House will be on

Tuesday 23rd January – Gillian Lait will be demonstrating The art of Zentangle. (Bring small sketch pad and pencil)

Tuesday 13th February – Tony Osler will be demonstrating in watercolour ‘Sand, pebbles, rocks’

Tuesday 27th February – Members drawing challenge. This ties in well with the various forms of drawing we have looked at during the programme.

Just a reminder of the three categories and guidelines: 

A decorated letter / Pair of shoes / Set of keys

Guidelines –

• members may enter one drawing per category
• drawing to be in monochrome using graphite pencil, ink, or charcoal
• each entry mounted – but not framed – up to maximum of 20″ x 16″ including mount
• for artist to remain incognito please write your name and category on back of work only
• entries handed in at the door by 7.40pm
• please avoid infringing copyright or enter work that was in the 2023 Annual Exhibition

Even if you are not entering a drawing it is an opportunity to view other members work, maybe inspired to have a go another year, vote for your favourite, enjoy light refreshment as well as see who, in each category, is awarded a trophy and prize with a runner up being awarded a prize.

Gallery changeover 2024 Wednesday 17th January 10.15 until 11.45am

Up to 2 works per member with fee £1 per work (payable when bringing in work on the 17th)

Max size 28″ x”28″. Once again, due to space, please do consider entering only one max size and perhaps one smaller work.

Please ensure details of work you wish to submit includes your name, title of work, price, medium plus, and this is important, size –

These details must be provided not later than Thursday 11th January.

This enables labels to be prepared and estimate if enough space for all work members wish to submit. Details, (no special form required) may be placed in box under bench which displays various Group notices at downstairs gallery space provided at Suffolk Living.

Wish to mail? – Then call membership secretary’s number found on back of programme card for address (such personal details excluded for newsletters that appear on Group’s website to avoid past issues).

Thursday painting at Conservative Club 2.00 – 4.00pm

The last session takes place on Thursday 21st December with sessions recommencing on Thursday 4th January 2024.

This just leaves me to say Seasonal Greetings to you all and my sincere thanks to all who help with running of the Group.

Enjoy your journey in art, wherever it may take you

Yvonne

(Chairman)

Welcome to the latest edition of your newsletter.

Meetings at Broadway House, Orwell Road

Well we almost had standing room only for Carole Massey’s demonstration ‘Acrylic Adventure’.

Carole explained that acrylics are one of the most versatile of painting mediums. They can be used thinly like watercolours, brushed on straight from the tube or used very thickly in an ‘impasto’ way with a palette knife. Also successful for collage as the polymer in the paint acts like a glue and a good reason not to leave acrylic paint on brushes as it will dry very quickly and ruin your brushes. There are also many gels and mediums that can be added to create texture or change the surface or lustre of the paint.

Feedback has been that it was an excellent evening and several members have already booked the Group’s workshop.

Saturday workshops

Although information has already been relayed to you here is a reminder of where, when and what –

Anne Plummer – Another popular evening was held back in June with requests for a workshop – We obliged! –

• • Capturing images and reflections in glass in acrylics
  • Saturday 7th October 10.00-1.00pm
  • Fee – Members – £25 Non members welcome – fee – £30
  • Deadline to book 30th September

Carole Massey – tutoring a workshop as follow up to her demonstration

• • Acrylic adventure
  • Saturday 28th October 10.30am – 3.00pm
  • Fee – Members – £25 Non members welcome – fee – £30
  • Deadline to book 14th October

Both these workshops are suitable for beginners and/or improvers and a great opportunity as a follow up to their respective demonstrations at what, we hope, is a reasonable fee, which incidentally includes tea and coffee, you just need to bring packed lunch along with materials. If you don’t have everything on the list sent to you there will be someone who will kindly let you have a dip of your brush in their paint etc.

The venue for both workshops is:

Memorial Hall, High Road, Trimley St Martin, IP11 0RJ (next to Sports and Social Club)

Free on site parking Bus stop very nearby (75/77)

Booking and payment

Members – contact the membership secretary

Non members – please use the contacts page on this website

Now to Carole Massey, Group’s President’s challenge ……

Title – Something that makes me smile . This could be a landscape, a view of the sea, portrait of a family member, child, pet, sunrise, slice of cake, in fact anything that makes you smile.

Any medium on paper, max size 12″ x 15″. Work mounted but not framed Deadline – November 30th

Winner will be announced, and prize presented at the Group’s meeting at Broadway House on Tuesday, 12th December.

Contact the membership secretary for options on delivering entries to Carole

Returning to meetings at Broadway House, Orwell Road – all commence at 7.30pm

Tuesday 26th September – Life drawing, male model Chris (members only)

Tuesday 10th October – Teresa Seals – Pastel demonstration – ‘Capturing the light on wildlife’   (Looking at her work on line this should be an interesting meeting, even if you do not work in pastels)

Tuesday 24th October – Stuart Dalton – work evening ‘Fresh approach to watercolour’ (Members only). Please bring your own materials.

Tuesday 14th November – Presentation ‘ Crafts/art of the Kinamba Community Project plus  an opportunity to purchase colourful gifts at very reasonable prices.

Tuesday 28th November – Life drawing, female model (members only)

Tuesday 12th December – Ian Last – demonstration ‘Hints and tips working in graphite pencil’ plus winner of President’s challenge announced and awarded their prize.

The topic on 12th December ties in very well with the Drawing challenge on 27th February 2024 at Broadway House, Orwell Road.  The three categories are – Decorated letter A / Pair of shoes / Set of keys

Just a reminder of the guidelines –

• members may enter one drawing per category
• drawing to be in monochrome using a graphite pencil, ink, or charcoal.
• each entry to be mounted but not framed, up to a maximum of 20″ x 16″ including mount.
• for artist to remain incognito, please sign the back of work only
• please hand entries in at the door by 7.40pm
• please kindly note all works must not infringe copyright or have been previously shown at the Group’s gallery or Annual Exhibition

Even if you are not entering a drawing it is an opportunity to view other members work, maybe be inspired to have a go another time, vote for your favourite and see who, in each category, is awarded a trophy and prize with the runner up being awarded a prize.

Gallery changeover – Wednesday 8th November 10.15-11.45am

Up to 2 works per member with a fee of £1 per work – max size 28″ x 28″

Due to space please consider entering only one max size and perhaps a smaller work

Details of work intend to submit to include your name, title of work, price, medium, size  and received no later than Thursday 2nd November. This enables labels to be prepared and estimate if enough space for all work members wish to submit. Details may be placed in box provided at the gallery, under bench which displays Membership forms etc. or hand in if coming along to either Saturday workshops or  hand in on Tuesday evening meetings prior to deadline.

Thursday painting, Conservative Club (upstairs 2.00-4.00pm)

Many of you are now aware, due to Conservative Club’s change of hours, we have had to adjust accordingly. Unfortunately the information did not filter through from Con Club until a few days before implemented. However, despite change of time, members continue to enjoy working on their various projects, help on hand if required, or some members just pop in for a chat!

So lots on offer to inspire and continue to –

Enjoy your journey in art

Yvonne

(Chairman)

Annual Exhibition at Trinity Methodist Church Hall, Orwell Road – 1st to 5th August

The words ‘Almost there’ come to mind (think there was a song with such a title) as that is exactly it with the Group’s Annual Exhibition.

Thank you to all who are helping in anyway. Liz and myself are certainly breathing a sigh of relief and look forward to having, as the expression goes, ‘less balls in the air’!! Let us hope we have plenty of visitors viewing work as well as a bounty of sales.

Although sales at the gallery installed at Suffolk Living have been on the slim side there has been enquiries about membership, outcome of which we have welcomed several new members.

As well as interest in membership, whilst at the gallery I had an interesting conversation about Christmas cards with one of the founders, Caroline Sturman, of Breast Friends, a not for profit peer support group for people in Suffolk, Essex and Cambridgeshire that have been affected by breast cancer. Here is an extract of an email Caroline sent following our conversation …..

‘This year we would love to be able to offer Christmas cards for sale that not only help to raise funds for our organisation but also raise awareness of breast cancer. Lacking any artistic skills, we wondered if Felixstowe Art Group may be able to help us with the Christmas card designs?

Ideally we are looking for fairly modern designs that incorporate a playful, breast themed twist on some of the typical things associated with Christmas. I was thinking about white card with a pen drawing with a little colour added, but I am no expert!

We are thinking along the lines of putting together packs of 5 cards which could contain cards of either one single design or if we have enough, maybe a mixed pack.’

Now for the all important details ……….

• Deadline for receipt of entries to be 30th September to enable Caroline to get cards printed and ready to go early November.
• Designs, in portrait or landscape format rather than square can, going by examples Caroline sent, also be based on the breast cancer emblem.
• Options to deliver your entries entries are: –Tuesday meetings at Broadway House in September / Thursday painting afternoons / placed in box under bench in Group’s gallery area / by mail – call one of the numbers on back of your programme card for address.

So how about it folks? A wonderful opportunity to not only get creative juices going but also help a charity.

Now back to Annual Exhibition and other matters that involve dates etc

Annual Exhibition – collection of unsold work

As requested, a reminder: collection of unsold paintings is – Saturday 5th August – 5.30 until 6.00pm

Dismantling of stands and tables will take place after 6.00pm. Any work remaining uncollected after 6.00pm will be placed in the unframed room but must be collected by 6.30pm

Please arrange for someone to collect your work if you are unable to do so as Felixstowe Art Group cannot be held responsible for any work not collected and not able to leave at current gallery space.

Now to news of meetings at Broadway House, Orwell Road, IP11 7DD

Tania Harrington’s presentation ‘Art Attack’ certainly contained some surprising acts of attacks on art and the lengths people will go to to do so and of course brought much discussion at meeting!

In contrast, Jo Jacobs ‘Art of collage’ was very well received with many ideas to take away. A very relaxed welcome evening.

Following a short break in August, Tuesday evening meetings resume with:

• Tuesday 12th September 7.30pm – demon. by Carole Massey ‘Acrylic Adventure’
• Tuesday 26th September 7.30pm – life drawing (members only) with another new male model, Chris
• Tuesday 10th October 7.30pm – demo. by Teresa Seals ‘Capturing the light on wildlife’ (pastels)
• Tuesday 24th October 7.30pm – Work evening for members led by Stuart Dalton:  ‘Fresh approach in watercolour’ (Bring own materials)

Also in October members can enjoy two Felixstowe Art Group Workshops …….

Following Anne Plummer’s evening back in June when she demonstrated How to paint images of the humble marble in acrylic (fascinating) several requests were made for a workshop. Originally this was to be, as reported in June supplement, on Saturday 16th September. Due to unforeseen circumstances, this has now been arranged for:

• • Saturday, 7th October 10.00-1.00pm.
  • Fee – £25 to include tea/coffee/biscuits. Payment details will be forthcoming later

Another acrylic workshop, which will be a follow up on Carole Massey’s ‘Acrylic Adventure’ demonstration has been arranged for:

• • Saturday, 28th October 10.30-3.00pm
  • Fee – £25 to include tea/coffee/biscuits. Again payment details will be forthcoming

Both the above workshops are to be held at –

Trimley St Martin Memorial Hall, 301 High Road, IP11 0RJ  (next to Sports and Social Club)

Free parking, easy access into a light airy building, bus stop nearby

Think that is it for now except to say that although there are no August meetings at Broadway House, painting sessions at Conservative Club (upstairs) 1.00-3.00pm will continue to be held throughout August

Look forward to seeing you at Exhibition and remember

Enjoy your journey in art, wherever it may take you

Yvonne

(Chairman)

Hello once again to all members.

What glorious weather we have had recently. Being able to feel the warmth of the sun on our faces, be it beside an open window, in the garden or out for a daily walk, such a joy. As is seeing plant life starting to awaken giving us an array of wonderful colour and the promise of more to come.

Looking back for a moment to the Group’s AGM, as reported in the recent supplement, Carole Massey is now the Group’s President and will be setting a President’s challenge later in the year!

The Group’s Committee now comprise of the following members –

• Chairman – Yvonne Smart
• Vice Chairman – Jim Lait
• Hon. Treasurer – David Tennant
• Group secretary – Chris Robinson
• Membership secretary – Liz D’arville
• Programme secretary – Yvonne Smart
• Publicity secretary – vacancy
• Gallery manager – Yvonne Smart
• Exhibition manager – Jim Lait
• Exhibition administrator – Liz D’arville
• Tuesday evening technician – Chris Robinson
• General assistance – Helen Daniel and Geoff Christian

Non committee: Thursday afternoon admin – Margery Shaw and Tessa Aston

Publicity

As you will see, the position of publicity secretary remains vacant. Although I have been sending articles to Flyer, Spotlight (monthly) and Felixstowe magazine (quarterly) with information about Bent Hill, Suffolk Living gallery opportunity etc, to continue with this extra role, especially with all the changes following vacating Bent Hill premises, is not a practical solution.

Publicity is an important part of any group/organisation, as with all events and meetings they will fall flat if public are not made aware of such things.

As said at AGM, this particular role I held for five years some time ago so well acquainted with what it entails, that is, short articles to the above mentioned publications, about Tuesday evening meetings, other up coming events, and to add interest and freshness I used to sometimes write a little about the presenter, gallery, history of group, hints and tips, endless possibilities.

Committee meetings are arranged face to face only when absolutely necessary but generally matters are dealt with by email.

Volunteer Required

Whilst on subject of volunteers, Chris Robinson would like someone to step up to assist with video camera and projector when such items are required for Tuesday evening meetings as the member who was assisting is no longer able to attend Tuesday evenings due to work commitments This would ensure that when/should Chris not be able to attend, there is always someone on hand to do the business. Chris will show you what it entails and it would make sense for anyone volunteering to periodically set up even if Chris is about to ensure information about what to do is not forgotten.

Now you have an idea of what is required please phone one of the numbers on the back of your programme to speak to Liz or myself to register your interest in filling one of these roles. Look forward to hearing from you.

Programme Matters

Now to programme at Broadway House, Orwell Road.

The Creative doodling evening with Claudia Myatt was absolutely fascinating and many members attending were enthused to give it a go at home as well as planning to come along to the workshop evening on 23rd May.

As well as demonstrating and giving lots of helpful ideas to get going, Claudia kindly let us take photos of her work to give inspiration and explained Creative Doodling is making marks without a fixed end is a form of play – and playfulness is an important element of the creative process. It takes away from pressure of having an end result which can be judged good or bad.

Playing with colour and lines help to focus on what it feels like to draw or paint rather than what it looks like – and the results can be surprising.  Set aside a sketch book just for doodling. Keep it open on a table and doodle whilst on the phone, waiting for the kettle to boil, simply sitting and having a quiet moment of me time etc. Range of marks could include a repeating theme, such as shells, geometric shapes, pebbles, birds, spoons, leaves, hands, knots. Look around the room and use some of the patterns you see in the carpet, curtains, fabrics etc as a starting point for doodling. Perhaps the pattern on some of your items around the home started out as a doodle?!

Doodle in colour, trying a different selection of colours each day. This is a good way to get to know your colours and mixes. Add patches of colour to your pen doodles without feeling you are colouring in. Ignore some lines, follow others.

Although results don’t matter, sometimes they happen by accident and you will create something to keep, progress with or discover new colour combinations.

Paper, pen, pencil or brush at the ready …… enjoy the freedom to create!

Tuesday 13th June 7.30pm at Broadway House sees, at popular request, Anne Plummer return to this time demonstrate Capturing images of the humble marble in acrylic.

Coach Trip

Don’t forget —–  Coach trip to Norwich Wednesday 14th June Cost £12

• An opportunity to visit galleries, museums, check out art supplies, and more.
• Depart Great Eastern Square 9.00am and arrive outside Norwich Castle 10.30am
• Depart Norwich Castle 4.00pm and arrive Felixstowe Great Eastern Square 5.30pm

Members may bring guest(s) – Payment to be made when booking giving name of passengers and can be handed in on Tuesday 23rd May also during month of May Thursday afternoon meetings at Conservative Club to Margery or Tessa or phone membership secretary (number on back of programme card) for bank transfer details or address to deliver/send.

Important …..To avoid coach cancellation fee if not enough are seats booked deadline for booking seats, with payment, is Friday 2nd June.

Look forward to hearing from you about coach trip, volunteering roles and of course your entry for Annual Exhibition which preparation for is already well underway.

Yvonne

(Chairman)

The artist sees what others only catch a glimpse of – Leonardo da Vinci