1st June 2025

 

Hello Everyone,

 

Over the years, at Arts Society Regional Meetings, we have been asked whether we think that the Arts Society Magazine is still relevant and appreciated. My personal response has always been “yes.” It arrives and I excitedly skim read it.  Then put it aside. On the pile. It takes something like our recent late May Bank Holiday for me to pick it up and truly give it some attention.

 

I started my in-depth read with the article by Mary Alexander. “A Dash of Deco.”  My memories of Mary’s Study Day for us in 2023 are still vivid. She led an excellent day, appreciated by all.

 

The following article on “Trees in Art” was written by Justine Hopkins. A very time relevant piece. Interestingly illustrated.

 

Then “Belle’s Treasures.”  This centred on the work of Belle da Costa Greene, the inaugural director of New York’s famed Morgan Library and Museum. It transpires that in the early 1900s Belle was trusted by Pierpont Morgan, a financier, to travel and buy works for the collection. Rare books with illuminated manuscripts were her special interest. Fascinating. All new to me. Isabella Smith has researched and written about Belle da Costa Greene.

 

Still making my way through the magazine, a prompt to me, I haven’t yet visited Bradford, our City of Culture 2025.

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I have sometimes gained inspiration from the listed lectures and events offered by other societies when I have been planning our own programme.

And … I’m prompted … we must try to get news of one of our Wirral events included in the “ Your Societies ” section.

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Yes, to me, our magazine is still relevant. I wonder whether you agree?

 

I hope to see many of you at our June lecture. 

“An Artist’s Best Friend. The Dog in Art.“ Alexandra Epps.

 

Judith Wheat

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