Photographs From the 2009 Art Trail

8 members opened their studio doors to give you an opportunity to see professional artists at work. click on an image to see larger

Jackie Mackay

Richard Beattie

Kathryn Pettitt

Paula Hamilton

Frances Townley

Averil van Rensburg and Jan Gay

Mark Tilley

Mark had an exhibition at the Solihull Arts Complex and therefore he was based there for the art trail

Look out for details of next years art trail 25th and 26th September 2010

Happy Hours at Avril's Studio

On Thursday evening members were invited to Avril Elward’s studio in Maxstoke and for some it was like going on a mystery tour! She talked about how she became to be an artist, graduating from BIAD, and then she discussed her work based around industry ‘on the edge’. Avril quite often uses bitumen, and the cracked/corroded appearance fits in very well with her current subject. Playing with materials is also a very important component in the realisation of her paintings or sculpture - the result often being serendipitous.

Some works using bitumen

With so many folk at the studio when one person had to leave unexpectedly the moving of cars was like a shunting yard, but that did not dull the proceedings and more coffee and lively conversation was the order of the night. All in all – a great evening. JM

Hilary Poole at Preston Bagot

SAF member Hilary Poole has some of her glass in the Autumn Exhibition at the Old Rectory Barn, Preston Bagot. The current exhibition is of quite traditional work and looks very good in the space. Car parking is at the side of the barn but can be a bit of a hassle if there are quite a few visitors.

If you have a spare couple of hours this weekend have a trip out there since we are considering this venue for a possible exhibition (also the farm opposite sells Dexter Beef – excellent with a full-bodied red). The exhibition runs until Sunday 18th 10am-6pm. JM