June 1st, 2021

 

Dear Members,

 

I hope you are all well and that you have been able to enjoy the extended freedoms we have had since 17th May. Coincidentally, that was the date of our last lecture, when Caroline Knight spoke to us about “English Towns in the 18th Century, Society, Art and Architecture”.  She covered an enormous amount of ground, both geographically and otherwise in her fascinating talk. Somehow it was very easy to connect with the new, social amenities being developed in various towns, and to understand as never before how much one might long for the freedom and entertainment they offered.

 

As always, messages either to Julia Leary or to me, expressing your thoughts about the lecture are greatly appreciated, especially when we cannot discuss our opinions after the lecture. It is a pleasure to see your comments, and to be able to send them on to the lecturer. 

 

After the lecture the Committee were joined by some of our new members at a virtual Tea Party. As you probably know we would normally have a lunch for new members, to welcome them and give an introduction to the various roles carried out by the committee. As we are still unsure when that will take place, we thought we should try to say hello and welcome now.

 

A number of your Committee members have again visited Heswall Hall, this time in person and not by Zoom, for further discussions about future meetings there. Much work is going on, new catering arrangements will be in place, and there are upgrades to equipment underway. We sincerely hope to resume our lectures there after the summer break. To repeat my previous comments, please be assured that as soon as we know for certain what we may do, and when, the news will be sent to all members.

 

The Arts Society AGM was held online on 12th May, and I was able to attend.  Much of the early part of the meeting consisted of farewells and welcomes, for both 2020 and 2021. In our own area Hazel Jacobs retired as NW Area Chair, and Pat Corless has taken over the post. As a number of Trustees had retired, an election for new Trustees was held. Caroline Coleman, David Taylor and Alison Watson were elected, and Jennifer Harding-Edgar was elected for a second term. As you probably know, Julie Goldsmith has stepped down as Chair of the Arts Society and is followed in that role by Julia Charlton Weedy. I feel sure that we all wish her well in taking over in such “interesting” times. 

 

Our next lecture is on 21st June, when Timothy Walker will speak to us about “The Subtle Science and Exact Art of Colour in English Garden Design”.  A treat, I am sure both for the experienced and novice garden enthusiasts.

 

Then of course we have our summer break until 20th September, when I do, sincerely, hope I can look forward to seeing you. My best wishes to you all for a very pleasant summer, 

 

 

Yvonne Woodhead

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The Arts Society Wirral members meet monthly to hear, from a varied programme of inspiring lectures given by top experts in their fields. Regular tours, outings and visits throughout the year complement the lectures.

In addition, the Volunteer programme, open to all members of our society, includes Church Recording, involvement with local young people by way of the Young Arts Group, Archiving for a number of organisations together with the development of Church Trails for children