A few of us managed to meet for a lesson this week. Properly distanced at Saling Village Hall with the doors opened. The theme was, appropriately enough, apples and leaves as plenty of leaves blew in the open doors.  If we do manage to meet here again before spring, warm clothing is advised.

 We met again yesterday near The Dourdan Pavillion in the sunshine and properly distanced.

A variety of artwork from watercolour through pencil and oil. Using a still life of found items, photographs and the lovely scenery.

We are continuing with our outside drawing and painting on Monday afternoons 1-3pm by the Dourdan Pavillion.  Should more than 6 arrive we will split into smaller groups.  Here are some pictures from this Monday's session.  

Firstly we hope that everyone has been keeping well and staying healthy during these very strange past few months.

There has, as yet, been no decision from Great Dunmow Town Council on when  Foakes Hall will re-open. We are making enquiries about different venues in and around the Great Dunmow area, so please do let us know if you have any suggestions.

In the meantime, throughout September we thought we'd hold weekly Dunmow Art Group meetings outdoors at the Recreation Ground, near the Dourdan Pavillion. Obviously these sessions will be weather dependant, but as long as it's not raining or blowing a gale, we'll be there on Mondays from 1pm-3pm for some fun 'plein air' sessions. You will have to bring your own painting materials, including something to sit on, plus any refreshments, and there won't be any teaching as such, but I'm sure we can all give each other some encouraging advice if needed. It's completely up to you what you paint - whether you choose to paint what's there or bring your own subject - the idea is to come together regularly and carry on the spirit of the Dunmow Art Group community. These September outdoor sessions will start on Monday 7th September and will be completely free of charge.

On the subject of fees, for those of you who have already paid for your membership this year (2020, there won't be any fees due in December 2020 for the following year (2021). However for new members wishing to join for 2021, membership fees of £30 will be due in December 2020. By then we hope to have a bit more information to share with you regarding the Foakes Hall and next year's exhibition.

Meetings Cancelled

In light of the current uncertainty around coronavirus, the Dunmow Art Group committee has made the decision to postpone all classes until further notice. This includes the Monday afternoon classes and the still life classes on Wednesday evenings.

This might sound a bit dramatic, but given the age of some of our members and the risk of spreading the virus, postponing classes for a few weeks seems like the most sensible option at the moment.

We are currently looking into whether we continue to hold the annual DAG art exhibition at the end of April, so will keep you updated.

Please check the Dunmow Art Group Facebook page for updates and feel free to share any artwork on there. It will help everyone feel connected in spirit, if not in body!

In the meantime, stay safe, wash your hands and keep painting/drawing/sketching!

Next Evening Session

The next session of evening still-life drawing will be on Wednesday 18 March from 7.30pm to 9.30pm (Please note time change). This will take place in the Talberd Room of Foakes Hall.

Free to members, non-members £5

No need to book just turn up with your materials.

Still life subject is still to be decided (apparently I have thrown out my hats, so it won't be that!)

6-Week Drawing Course from 24 February 2020

From next week, Monday 24th February, Bruce Ronaldson will be teaching a 6-week course in drawing. These classes will run from 1pm to 3pm on Monday afternoon in The Talberd Room at Foakes Hall.  As previously these will be £5 for non-members and free to members.

Please bring the following with you:

A 2b pencil

Rubber

Sharpener

Cartridge paper, A3 size or bigger.

Evening sessions

Following the success of the Monday afternoon classes,  Dunmow Art Group are now pleased to offer an evening session approximately once a month as an informal drawing/painting session for those who cannot attend the afternoon classes. 

The first session will be on Wednesday 19th February 8pm to 10pm and will consist of a still life of musical instruments. It will take place in the Talberd room at Foakes Hall. 

Bring your own materials. 

Free to members. Non-members £5

From this week's watercolour class by Louise Mann

Dunmow Art Group AGM and Christmas Drinks

Dunmow Art Group will hold its annual get together for drinks, a chat and the AGM on Tuesday 10 December 7pm to 9pm. It will take place in the Talberd Room, Foakes Hall, Great Dunmow.

Drinks will be provided, but a plate of finger food to share is requested.

The AGM will take place as well; this will be a chance to learn more about the group and take part in deciding how it moves forward in the coming years.  The full AGM agenda will be circulated to members prior to the meeting, please consider whether you have time available to help with the running of the club as this is the point in the year where the committee is elected. Not an onerous task if enough people come forward.  

The annual subscription will also be due at the AGM, so please bring along cash or cheque for £30, which will entitle you to take part in both the classes and the annual exhibition, as well as the visit programme and any talks or demonstrations that are organised through the club.

Oil Painting Classes With Eileen Wigley

We run regular Monday afternoon classes from 1pm to 3pm in the Talberd Room, Foakes Hall, Great Dunmow.  The cost is £5 per class or free for members.  There is no need to book, just turn up and bring your materials.  Current requirements for this class are prepared canvas, brushes and oil paints.

My Personal View of Essex
by Eileen Wigley