Special Autumn 2020 Report

CHAIRMAN'S REPORT

If I hear that word "unprecedented" one more time I shall scream! However, it is what it is and we have to be patient and make the right decisions for our safety. We took the decision to close down in good time but subsequently have had to look ahead with whatever information we can glean and make some difficult decisions on both pragmatic and safety grounds. Regrettably that meant the early cancellation of our Summer exhibition and informing our expected demonstrators that we will not be able to host them this Autumn. This is especially sad for Ann who puts in so much time and effort arranging these things for us. I might add that it is most unlikely that we shall have an AGM this year. We have kept in touch with the church authorities, who of course had to close everything down as well. It seems that it might theoretically be possible to use the hall this Autumn, but the necessary precautions and procedures would in my opinion make it an onerous and joyless experience for those who might consider the risk. So, for the moment, we shall keep a watching brief and look forward to better times. The good thing is that our interest in painting can still be enjoyed in safety at home. I know that some of you have kept going, but I also sympathise with those who have struggled to find the motivation without the stimulus of our meetings, chat, workshops and demonstrations. I can only encourage you to keep trying new and doubtless uplifting creations - We should have a lot to share when we get together again. I have managed to do some painting and even gone over earlier efforts either to clear them out or in some cases alter them in an attempt at improvement. I have even
spent some months making a Canadian canoe from a kit! If you need a particular incentive, The last Winter Challenge (A
Walk on the Wild Side ) is still open and will carry over to next year. Have you done one? Could you improve on it given the
extra time? Even Leonardo kept fiddling with the Mona Lisa for years when he ended up in France - as John Singer Sargeant said, "a portrait is a picture of someone with something wrong with the mouth". Maybe this is the time to try a different medium? If you have something to share with us from lockdown then please let myself or Peter Wikinson know (with a picture if appropriate).
Bill Sayer

Autumn 2019 Reports

CHAIRMAN'S REPORT

Sadly since our last newsletter we had to say a last farewell to Derek Fontaine. Derek was a great friend and most
valuable supporter of Malvern Terrace Artists and his contribution has been greatly missed. It was fitting that we
were able to display some of his work at the Hanley Swan exhibition, which he had done so much to enhance over the
years, and also present the Derek Fontaine Award in his memory.

This year's exhibition was a great success in terms of both the number and quality of works on display as well as a very
good number of visitors. The organisation by Ann Wolfson and Pat Hibbs, aided by so many other members, was
terrific. Although the exhibition made an overall loss we were still able to make generous contributions to our charities.
Your committee will continue to consider ways in which the the exhibition might be improved still further and any
suggestions from members will be very welcome.

The summer outdoor sessions were of course somewhat affected by the very changeable weather but remain a very
worthwhile part of our programme. I do hope that all who took part will show us their work at the AGM when we shall
have the opportunity to cast our votes for our favourite, which will entitle the artist to the Blake Jago cup for the year.

This season’s challenge ‘A Walk On The Wild Side’ will conjure a multitude of different approaches and the final
products will be judged in April 2020.

MTA is a thriving and diverse artistic group and I am delighted that we have attracted several new members with
a range of interests. Welcome to you all - enjoy what we have to offer and don't be shy to help us to get even more
out of it. As in previous years we can look forward to an excellent series of professional demonstrations as detailed
in your calendar; in addition there will be a number of member-led workshops which we may join in as we wish.
Bill Sayer

Spring 2019 Reports

CHAIRMAN'S REPORT

I was greatly honoured to be appointed your new Chairman at the November AGM and I hope that I can continue to support your interests as well as Derek Webb has done for the last five years. All of the committee have worked hard to help MTA but I would particularly like to thank Derek Fontaine on your behalf for the
tremendous contribution he has made over many years. I am sure that he will enjoy the chance to relax as he stands down.
We have made a significant change in 2019 by arranging to open the hall formally at 1pm for our indoor painting sessions. We are grateful to Lansdowne for allowing us to do this at minimal cost. So far, the new opening time for a potential three-hour session seems to be well received and gives more flexibility in arrival and departure times for all.
Judging from the success of the numerous mini-workshops and certainly the very well attended workshop on Still Life conducted by Roz Rowberry, perhaps we should be thinking of having more of these hands-on sessions to complement what we already do. We are an active group with a wide range of activities and your committee would be delighted to receive any further ideas for things that you would like to do. We are approaching the time to exhibit our efforts on the Winter Challenge theme of “Still Life” and I am very pleased that Roz has agreed to adjudicate and give her valued comments. After this we can look forward to our regular outdoor painting days throughout the summer and of course our annual exhibition. As that great English watercolourist of the early 19th century Peter de Wint said to his wife, “I do so love painting. I am never so happy as when looking at nature. Mine is a beautiful profession.”
Lastly but not least a welcome to all our new members – I do hope you will enjoy your time with Malvern Terrace Artists.
Bill Sayer

TREASURER’S REPORT

At the time of writing the available funds in the bank account stand at £2035.79. There are no further outstanding bills at this time.
The Membership at the moment stands at 68, including three new ladies that we have been pleased to welcome since Christmas. Just a reminder that there are still a small number of subscriptions still outstanding.
In addition to our normal Wednesday afternoon painting sessions,we are still continuing our monthly demonstrations by professional artists on March 20th and the last one for the Winter season on 17th April. Guests are very welcome to attend these occasions which are held at the Methodist Lansdowne Crescent Hall, as are our Indoor Painting sessions. We are a friendly group and any new members are very welcome.
Kathy, who has organised teas for the Indoor Painting Sessions for a long time has now retired as she has family commitments, and we thank her for the splendid job that she has done. W e are now simplifying the system. There is a slight increase in the Hall rental as we are now starting at 1pm and cotinuing through to 4pm . We are, therefore, just asking for a total payment of £1.50 per session to cover the rental and tea expenses, at the desk. Demonstration charges remain at £5 and will include teas. We are organising a rota for helpers with the teas and hope that members will help us with this.
Any remaining subscriptions can be paid at any of the Indoor Painting sessions, Any members wishing to exhibit at our Annual Exhibition, should be aware that for Insurance purposes our cut off date is 1st May.
Margaret Price

Social Calender

We all enjoyed an excellent meal at the Farmers Arms in October, cooked by Neil the new young chef, after being entertained by Bob one of our members with card and number tricks. We only had 4 of our number appearing in fancy dress this time, with Pat as a St. Trinian’s goul, Bob as a
Pirate, Carol as a sailor and me as Lulu the Pop-star. In November we went to the Railway Inn, Malvern Wells, and had an excellent
pre-Christmas lunch, which was beautifully presented and cooked by Amy especially for us on the
Tuesday. Quite a few of our members dressed up in
Christmas costumes and fun hats. Pat and Cathy were Santa’s Elves and I was the fairy on the Christmas tree but even though I hunted high and low for a tree, which is big enough and strong enough to hold my weight, sadly I remained grounded!! Pat
entertained us reading some funny monologues originally by Cyril Fletcher!
Our return to the Railway Inn again on the 26th February proved to be a great success.
Janet Potter

Samaritans Purse Charity

We have been carrying on with our Sales Table in an effort to raise money for this charity and from June to the end of November 2018 we managed to raise the grand sum of £250 to send the 50 shoeboxes, which I have been busily filling over the past 11 months for operation Christmas Child.
Each box has contains a cuddly toy and other toys suitable for children aged 2 to 4 years, 5 to 9 years and 10 to 14 years, together with materials etc., for their educational needs, hygiene requirements also hat and mitts, which I knitted throughout the year. A BIG thanks to all who bring things for our stall, donations, old magazines, etc. We are now raising funds again for where they are most needed, so search out your cupboards, keep donating, buying or both, it really is a good CHARITY to support and helps so many in need.
Janet Potter

EXHIBITION - HANLEY SWAN VILLAGE HALL
Saturday 3rd - Sunday 4th August 2019

Our annual exhibition will be held at Hanley Swan Village Hall on 3rd-4th August 2019. Handing in day will be Friday 2nd August. I will be sending out entry forms at the end of June and these must be returned to me by Saturday 13th July at the latest.
Please ensure that your entry form is correct as changes will not be made after receipt of the form.
Any entry forms received after the 13th July date will not be accepted and consequently those members will not be allowed to exhibit.
Ann Woolfson

THE WINTER CHALLENGE:

A reminder
Our topic for which the ballot of members received the most votes for the 2018/2019 Winter Competition is “A Still Life”. Members are invited to submit works in any of three categories. These are i) Watercolour, ii) Oils or Acrylic and iii) Pastels, Mixed media to include Graphite or Charcoal. Entries for the individual categories will be judged at our meeting scheduled for 10th April 2019. Please ensure that all works to be entered are submitted by 13:30 on the day.
There will be a cash prize of £25 awarded to the winning artist for each category. The picture which receives the most votes from the meeting attendees will receive the Harry Marsden Shield. We are pleased to confirm that our independent judge is Roz Rowberry. All who attend appreciate hearing her constructive comments on all the entries for this competition.
Derek Webb

Autumn 2018 reports

CHAIRMAN’S REPORT

This Newsletter records the Club’s activities over the past six months and describes the programme of demonstrations, workshops and social activities scheduled for the next eight months. It also sets out the Winter challenge which I hope many of you will participate in.
Sadly, I must report the death of Sue Hearl, a long standing member, who died of lung cancer in the Spring. Her laughter will be missed.
The summer exhibition was extremely well received and attracted 2 new members to the club. The high standard of work exhibited benefitted from the professional manner by which they were presented thanks to the organisers and Derek Fontaine’s innovative double sided, table mounted, easels. The excellent refreshments on offer provided further incentive for folk to attend.
Fine summer weather encouraged many to take part in the outdoor painting programme. I commend all to attend the exhibition of work from these occasions at the AGM on Wednesday November 14th. The AGM will start at 1400 at Lansdowne Church Lansdowne Crescent, Malvern WR14 2AW . On this occasion several longstanding committee members are “retiring” and the opportunity is open to welcome some fresh blood. After five years I will not stand for re-election as Chairman at the AGM. However, my full support will be available to my successor and the Committee.
Derek Webb

TREASURER’S REPORT

At the time of writing the available funds in the bank account stand at £1844.76 after, taking into account, cheques issued to artists for their Exhibition sales that have not yet been cashed. The Hall rental from May to 12th September of £168 is now due for the Summer Indoor Painting sessions, but this has been more than covered by a good Summer attendance. There are no further outstanding bills at this time. This does mean that we are in a fairly good position to cover any potential future extraordinary expenditure, particularly as we are coming to the time for the renewal of membership subscriptions at the AGM in November. There is the possibility that we will need to replace our camera equipment for demonstrations soon.

In addition to our normal Wednesday afternoon painting sessions, throughout the Winter we will be having a number of professional artists giving demonstrations. Guests are very welcome to attend these occasions which are held at the Methodist Lansdowne Crescent Hall, as are our Indoor Painting sessions. We are a friendly group and any new members are very welcome.
Just a reminder that Annual Subscriptions for 2018/2019, which remain at £15, are due at the AGM in November. Those not able to attend are very welcome to pay at any of the Indoor Painting sessions,
Margaret Price

HANLEY SWAN EXHIBITION AUGUST 2018

The sunshine stayed with us for the two days of the exhibition and kept visitor numbers (162) to about the same as last year.
Only 29 members entered paintings, which is down on last year and the number of paintings was once again down slightly on last year at 105. However, as many visitors commented, the standard of the work was higher than ever.
Although the sales of framed pictures being sold (5) together with (6) unframed originals, prints and cards remained the same as last year the value of the sales increased on last year. The refreshments were once again a great success. Donations to Midland Air Ambulance were unfortunately far less than in previous years but we are still able to send a cheque for £100 to them.

Once again visitors were asked to vote for their favourite picture

Exhibition 2018 winner

The winner with the most votes was Ann Woolfson with her oil on canvas entitled ‘They said it was my tea break’

Exhibition 2018 second place

Second place was John Tyzzer also oil on canvas entitled ‘Boating Lake’.

Exhibition 2018 third place

Joint third place Peter Wilkinson and Bill Sayer with their acrylic works entitled ‘The old Barn’ and ‘Dancing Cranes’ respectively

The exhibition was considered a great success thanks to all the volunteers who, despite the heat, worked tirelessly setting up the easels and hanging the art on Friday to stewarding and refreshments over the 2 days. Thanks also to all those members who exhibited their wonderful paintings. Hopefully they and others will be able to do the same again next year.
Ann Woolfson and Pat Hibbs

SALES TABLE: RAISING MONEY FOR SAMARITAN’S PURSE.

Last month I sent £182 for the Rohingya Refugees that we had raised on our charity sales table and in May £60 for where most needed.
Throughout the Summer we’ve been raising money to send the 50 shoeboxes that I’ve managed to fill with toys, educational, hygiene requisites, warm hats and mittens to needy children to enjoy and help them to be educated for a brighter future.
We have raised £125 so far and need another £125 to send the boxes in containers abroad as it is estimated that it will cost £5 to send each box.
Thank you so much for supporting this worthwhile charity. TOGETHER we can help so many needy people.
Janita Potter

SOCIAL ACTIVITES: RECENT LUNCHES FOR MTA MEMBERS AND FRIENDS

We all enjoyed an excellent lunch in May at the Railway Malvern Wells with 7 people in fancy dress and a quiz.
In July we went to the Farmers Arms, Birtsmorton where the new chef Neil cooked many delicious dishes for us. Only 13 people attended due to some of our regular diners being on holiday.A few of us were in fancy dress and everyone enjoyed the relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
Next lunches will be at the Rose and Crown Severn Stoke on Tuesday 30th October 2018 and on 27th November 2018 at the Railway, Malvern Wells. Contact me on 01684 891254. Family and friends welcome.
Janita Potter

A Call for Volunteers.

To support the continued activities of the Club Derek Fontaine identifies the need to secure volunteers to assume responsibility for:
Hall Set Up for All Indoor Painting Sessions
At least a couple of strong men to set up the tables on Weds afternoons. This would mean that they could potentially alternate Wednesdays off in turn without interrupting the sessions.
Hall set up for Demonstrations by Visiting Professional Artists: ie Audio Visual, Camera, loudspeaker and room set-up.
It is proposed to Initially to work with me to find all the hiding places for the equipment and how to set it up, which involves arriving around 10 minutes to one o’clock, to open the hall, set out a notice and be prepared to welcome the demonstrator while setting up the equipment plus tables for his/her display and chairs for the audience. There is usually more help to clear it all up and lock up. This probably needs a team of three to ensure a continuance of coverage.

I will continue to house the easels and display equipment which any member is welcome to borrow and use for a show. My increasing years requires me to ask for assistance when setting up the Summer Exhibition.
Publicity:
Articles to elicit interest in the MTA Summer Exhibition and Professional Artist Demonstrations. A pattern has now evolved which circles round writing a light-hearted article to go in the Community News (As they will print it in full without editing it) ideally with a photo, which will draw people’s attention. This goes in the Gazette the week before the actual Exhibition, followed the week after by the entry to go in the What’s On pages. Ideally other chatty pieces should follow in the Community News to attract new members.
At least I have a folder of past efforts, which will be supplemented by catch phrases gleaned from years past from studying art periodicals, which could be inserted into articles to ring the changes and hopefully give some zip to an article.
Derek Fontaine

THE WINTER CHALLENGE:

Our topic for which the ballot of members received the most votes for the 2018/2019 Winter Competition is “A Still Life”. Members are invited to submit works in any of three categories. These are i) Watercolour, ii) Oils or Acrylic and iii) Pastels, Mixed media to include Graphite or Charcoal. Entries for the individual categories will be judged at our meeting scheduled for 10th April 2019. Please ensure that all works to be entered are submitted by 13:30 on the day.
There will be a cash prize of £25 awarded to the winning artist for each category. The picture which receives the most votes from the meeting attendees will receive the Harry Marsden Shield. We are pleased to confirm that our independent judge is Roz Rowberry. All who attend appreciate hearing her constructive comments on all the entries for this competition.
Derek Webb

Spring 2018 reports

CHAIRMAN’S REPORT
Many of activities planned for Spring Summer 2018 are simply “must attend” items for your diaries. This year our outdoor sketching / painting venues are not so far away as some of you found the distance to last years’ a little daunting. The weather wasn’t too kind either. But this time, do come along and, do consider keeping a sketch diary to record those tempting compositions. Sketch books might be a source of competition material!
I look forward to seeing plenty of entries for our Winter 2017/2018 competition “Rain and Its’ Effects”. Roz Rowberry has kindly accepted our invitation to provide a constructive critique of all entries at our Wednesday meeting on April 11th 2018.
The demonstrations by visiting Professional Artists organised ably by Ann Woolfson have been excellent and diverse in their mediums of choice. Something for us all no matter what our personal choices are. It is stimulating to see how with limited time they create such wonderful compositions.
The Club is keen to attract new members, therefore if you know of friend who wishes to pursue a fresh pastime with like minded people bring them along to any of the Clubs’ activities.
Derek Webb

TREASURER'S REPORT
The Winter Indoor Painting sessions have been busy with a lively attendance of twenty plus members, and regularly even more for the excellent Demonstrations that we have enjoyed over this period.
Our present membership totals 72, including 14 honorary members. There are, 13 listed members who are unpaid at this point. For Insurance purposes our cut-off date for 2017/2018 Membership is 1st May. If you wish to continue your membership you can pay the subscription of £15 at any of the Indoor Painting sessions, or if you wish, you can send your payment to me at 221 West Malvern Road, Malvern, Worcs. WR14 4BE and I will be happy to send you a Membership card and receipt by return. Just a reminder, that if you are interested in exhibiting at our Summer Exhibition at Hanley Swan, you do need to be a paid-up member.
We are a friendly group and guests are welcome at any of our Demonstrations and Indoor Painting Sessions. Any new members are welcome to join at any of our meetings.
Margaret Price

RECENT LUNCHES FOR MTA MEMBERS AND FRIENDS
Our lunch on 28th November 2017 at the Farmers Arms, Birtsmorton, was a very enjoyable occasion with most of us choosing the roast turkey and vegetable option. Attendees who came in fancy dress caused a lot of fun and laughter. David Laycock arrived riding his impressive 1928 sunbeam motorcycle dressed as a biker with Ann his former pillion passenger declining a ride and travelling independently! Margaret and John Dunn came with a Christmas theme, Pat Wells as a cowgirl, Kathy Hawkesford as an elegant Japanese Lady and me as a Bollywood dancer!
Our venue for the lunch on the 5th February 2018 was the Railway Inn at Malvern Wells. Another successful lunch due in great measure by our hostess Amy, who provided a very tasty and nicely presented meal which all present thought it our best yet! Once again a few dressed in fancy dress. The photograph alongside illustrates our dress theme. Characters from the films such as101 Dalmatians, Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter were in evidence. Gill Peers made a complete outfit which included a hat of various materials, and a dress with incorporating fishnet tights. I came as the Snow Queen as I managed to get a glittery wedding dress from a charity shop!
Janet Potter

AGM 2017
The following offered themselves for re-election: Derek Webb Chairman, Derek Fontaine, Vice Chairman, Margaret Price Treasurer, Janet Potter Fundraising and social events, Pat Hibbs and Janet Potter Outdoor Programme, Ann Woolfson Website. Organising Demonstrations by professional artists and aided by Pat Hibbs, Penny Vere, our Annual Exhibition. Rosemary Ostick Membership Secretary and Exhibition Refreshments. Brian Merrien Photography. I am grateful that Bill Sayer volunteered to join the committee and was duly elected together with the existing members.
Pat Wells was thanked for producing the boards of photographs of members in the activities of the past year. This entertained all at the AGM and is a valuable depiction of the Clubs’ activities to attract new members at the Summer Exhibition.
During the discussion on Publicity, Pat Wells offered to write short pieces to go in the Community News, she will liaise with Derek Fontaine. Many suggestions, extra to those measures we already do, included trying to get notices welcoming people to our demonstrations and to the club in general, put on the notice boards in the Art College and the Library. Whilst we received plenty of suggestions, sadly few people actively are stepping up to do the work.
Roz Rowberry then gave a spirited and interesting appraisal of the work produced at the Summer 2017 en Plein air painting venues. Roz drew particular attention to the two excellent sketchbooks on display, suggesting we make more use of them, possibly another form of competition for next year?
Roz joined in the discussion of possible out door venues for next summer and offered the use of the Church Rooms at Cradley as a possible venue for next summer for which we can only once again thank her sincerely.
To close the meeting, Ann presented Roz with a bouquet of flowers as a token of our appreciation and the Chairman, presented Horace Wilks with the Blake/Jago cup for his pictures of Brockhampton Manor.
Derek Fontaine

Membership 2017-2018
The Committee have accepted that to encourage fresh blood to join the Club we need to embark upon an enrolment exercise. Crucial to this is communicating the activities and aims of the Club and what it can offer new members. The programme of demonstrations by visiting professional artists together with workshops by existing members highlighting techniques and approaches for successful outcomes are particularly valuable for individuals new to art and wishing to improve. Consideration is also being given to mentoring new members.

This Newsletter whilst describing our Summer Programme will be augmented with “MTA Activity Posters” in appropriate local sites such as the Library, Tourist Information, Art Shops and Galleries, and News Bulletins within local Newspapers

RAISING MONEY FOR CHARITIES
A big thank you to everyone who donated and supported our weekly stall at the indoor painting sessions. I have just written a cheque for the sum of £115 to be sent to the Refugees via Samaritan’s Purse from the contributions which members have made in purchasing goods from our weekly sales table.
We raised £315 to dispatch the 63 Christmas boxes for poor children. This money was used to cover postage to send our 63 boxes to Romania.
These boxes contained gifts of toys and educational mateeir rials. For many of the children these gifts would be the first they have received and support them in their education for a better life. I should like to thank Kathy Hawkesford and friends for their gift donations for dispatch within the “shoe boxes”. Our 63 boxes which together with those from Christchurch totalled 443 boxes that were sent.
I should like to thank all who gave generously and supported our charity contributions. Should any of you have any items you wish to part with such as art magazines, art materials, books and articles of general interest then please bring them for our sale table. They do contribute to our support of various charities.
Janet Potter

PROPOSED SUMMER OUTDOOR PAINTING PROGRAMMES FOR 2018
Over the past two years attendance at our outdoor painting venues chosen in response to your requests have diminished. Pat Hibbs and I responded to members requests and organised these after making enquiries of their suitability. However due to the vagaries of the weather and perhaps the travel involved this year we decided to compile a list of more local venues which we very much hope you will join us to draw, paint and enjoy a snack relaxing with friends. If you are not inspired by the views just bring a book, take a few pictures in the fresh air. We would love to see you. Please check the calendar pages for a lits of venues

Autumn 2017 reports

CHAIRMAN’S REPORT

This Newsletter records the achievements over the past six months and describes the programme of demonstrations, workshops and social activities scheduled for the next eight months. It also sets out the Winter challenge which I hope many of you will participate in.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 2017

This is scheduled for Wednesday November 22nd commencing at 1400 at Lansdowne Church Lansdowne Crescent, Malvern WR14 2AW. This is your opportunity to learn of MTA’s financial health, to put forward suggestions for future Club activities and to elect its’ officers.
At the AGM there will be an exhibition of paintings from the Summer 2017 outdoor venues. Roz Rowberry will enlighten us with her constructive critique of all these paintings. The Jago-Blake Cup will be awarded to the artist, whose picture executed at or from one of the outdoor venues receives the most votes from attendees.
Please remember your membership subscription of £15 for the 2017-2018 season becomes due at this meeting.

Derek Webb

TREASURER'S REPORT

We are in a fairly good position to cover any potential future extraordinary expenditure, particularly as we are coming to the time for the renewal of membership subscriptions at the AGM in November. There is the possibility that we will need to replace our camera equipment for demonstrations soon.
Our present membership totals 71, including 14 honorary members.

Going a bit outside my remit, as Treasurer I attend all the Indoor Painting sessions and am very aware of the work involved in preparing the Hall each week. The setting out of the tables and chairs beforehand and packing up at the end, seems to fall on a very few loyal members. I am sure that they would welcome some regular help from those of us that are fit enough to do so.

Margaret Price

SALES TABLE: RAISING MONEY FOR SAMARITAN’S PURSE.

Old art magazines, art materials, and bric-a-brac are always wanted for our sales table at our Indoor Painting Sessions. All monies go to Samaritan’s Purse for various projects.
Last March we raised £185, and March to June we raised £81.
Throughout every year I fill shoe boxes for needy children in many countries around the world. November is the month when these boxes are checked at various warehouses to be then dispatched by container, on ships and lorries.
This year as I was approaching 80 I decided to give myself a real challenge by filling 50 boxes, but have managed to fill 60! This was achieved by asking my family and friends to give me items for my shoe boxes instead of giving me presents for my 80th last July.
Costs associated container transit have risen dramatically. The amortised fee per box has inflated from £3 to £5 per box! I am raising money on our sales table and need to raise £300 by November. Please help with donations and buying from our sales such that I can send my 60 boxes. Your donations will make 60 poor children very happy on receiving these precious boxes of delight and enable them to be educated. Thank you.

Janet Potter

SOCIAL ACTIVITES: RECENT LUNCHES FOR MTA MEMBERS AND FRIENDS

We all enjoyed an excellent lunch at our favourite venue, The Farmers Arms, last May and wanted to return in July. Unfortunately, the week we wanted to return it was closed, so we went to try out the Bluebell, Guarlford Road, Malvern. Twenty of us attended and the food was excellent but, due to staff shortages the service was slow and muddled despite giving our menu selections a week in advance! Members were asked to bring something they treasured from the past with interesting tales to tell. Three bears turned up! Marilyn brought a bear which was owned by her mum, I brought my own bear aged 79 years and John brought a tiny bear which was given to him when he was the 1000th customer to a Poundland store which was then given to me to put into one of my shoe boxes. These I fill with education materials, hygiene requisites and warm mittens and hats for a poor child in a foreign country who has never received a gift in its’ life before. It will be a much travelled and cherished bear indeed!

Our next lunch will be at the Farmers’ Arms Birtsmorton on Tuesday 10th October 2017, 12:30 for 13:00. I have also booked a further lunch at the same venue for Tuesday 28th November 2017 which will be fancy dress lunch for all those brave enough to sort out a costume (not compulsory) and no particular theme. If you would like to join us for lunch phone me or write a cheque for £10:50 (includes tip)

Janet Potter

MTA OUTDOOR PAINTING PROGRAMME FOR 2017: Comments from the Convenors

May 24th JINNEY RING CRAFT CENTRE
After a 9.45am start Pat Hibbs car with 5 members made the journey by motorway hoping for a quick journey but due to traffic jams eventually arrived at 11.20am!
A beautiful sunny day, the hottest this year so far, we enjoyed painting in the shade of the trees as friendly ducks quacked around us. Lovely landscape views plus the pond. Disappointing that so few members came. 7 in all.
Janet Potter

June 7 LEDBURY TOWN
After a very traumatic hunt to find where to park due to road closures and one- way streets with no directions or public notices, we eventually found a carpark through a maze of roads, going out of town to get back in again. With a beautiful sunny day, Pat and I sat on a street bench to draw the complicated Old Butter Market after refreshments in a café with Marilyn and Horace. After we had finished our sketches, we browsed around the shops then back for more delicious cakes and tea. 5 attended.
Janet Potter

June 21st WHITLEY COURT
A beautiful sunny day, the hottest June day for 40 years, Pat, her sister Margaret and myself arriving at the café to meet Marilyn and Horace there. We started the day with refreshments in the shade under the trees, shortly to be joined by Brian, who said he had just popped in to meet us all before returning home. (He had been missing us through ill health) It was a good distance from the café to Whitley Court as we gathered our gear and walked to the entrance to the Court. We paid our dues (7.50 for over 60’s) and then went around the immaculate grounds and the burnt-out buildings which one day may be restored to its’ full glory again.

We found a bit of shade in the Orangery, which was open to the skies and did several sketches and paintings before moving to another spot for one last effort for more refreshments at the at the cafe and our return home. We found Jamie around a corner doing a quick sketch, he too joined us later at the café. We also visited the beautiful Church and admired the ceiling paintings. 9 attended.
Janet Potter

July 5th 2017 NATURE IN ART
Another sunny day with blue skies found many people milling around the back garden, plus many school children obviously with a school party to swell the crowds so the café was crowded, but we managed to take our coffee and ice cream out and sit in the garden. Most of the time we sat in the shade in the front garden to draw and paint the magnificent Georgian House – a real challenge! We had the front garden all to ourselves, very peaceful. We returned to the house to buy postcards and gifts before going home. 7 attended.
Janet Potter

August 2nd CHATEAU IMPNEY
Wind and drizzle - not the best outdoor painting conditions! However, two hardy members, Adrian and Jean Fray did spend half a day at this venue. Suitably clad, they ventured out around the grounds, taking "atmospheric "photos and noting lovely places to paint. It was too wet and windy to even open a sketch pad!
Let's go again to this lovely venue - it's well worth another try - And they do lovely bar lunches!!
Jean Frey

August 16th THE KETTLE SINGS (Replacement venue for Hartlebury Castle).
Derek and I arrived at the Upper car park opposite the Kettle Sings at 10.15am, looking out for members. When 11am came we moved to a car park nearer to the Café and chose a spot amongst the Silver Birch trees, but when Marilyn and Horace arrived, we all decided to go for coffee in the café. The dew was still on the grass as we walked down the hill. John popped in see us but decided to go and find his spot for painting. After a good session, it got colder so while the others went home, Derek and I went to lunch at the Malvern Hills Hotel. 5 attended.
Janet Potter

August 30th BROCKHAMPTON MANOR NT
I arrived early at 10.10 am Weather damp and dull to start but the rain stayed away. We were all dressed for cold weather so it was possible after coffee to sit in comfort, we were joined by yet more members and the sun came out by 3pm. Everyone scattered around, toured the house, chatted to the very pleasant staff who were interested to see our efforts, I think some good work was done by all. The sun started to cloud over, so coats back on. The house and grounds close at 4.30pm so we were on our way out by 4pm having had a dry day. As we turned towards Bromyard to pick up the Malvern Road, the heavens opened and it was a ride home in torrential rain, which somehow seemed to have missed the Manor house. Were we not lucky! 10 attended.
Derek Fontaine

Spring 2016 Reports

CHAIRMAN’S REPORT

As an absent Chairman I really appreciate the support which members of your committee have given the Club. Whilst temporarily living in Penarth, it has taken some time to secure the support of MHDC Planning Officers to approve the plans of our future home. The current status is shown here.
With good fortune I hope many of you will be able to enjoy a welcome barbecue when all is complete.

Read on for details of the summer MTA programme, and milestones of the past six months. I hope many of you will take advantage of what is on offer. Should you have any further ideas of what members might like please bring them to the attention of the Committee. Committee Membership is detailed within this newsletter. Whilst the ladies of your committee are very generous in their support I feel that we fellows need to put our hands up and volunteer additional support.

EDDIE BIRCH

It is with regret we bid a fond farewell to our friend Eddie Birch who has now moved to Lichfield to be near his family. We owe an awful lot to Eddie for his hard work over the years, we are certainly going to miss his cheerful smile, he will be hard to replace and Lichfield has gained a good friend. I imagine he will soon be painting with a Lichfield art group.
His new address is available from the committee so do drop him a line from time to time.

Derek Fontaine

RECENT LUNCHES FOR MTA MEMBERS AND FRIENDS

In November 2015 we had an excellent lunch at the Duke of York, 23 members attending. Everyone enjoyed the happy atmosphere and good food and John provided a quiz to amuse us while waiting. This is a popular venue and I am sure we’ll be going there again in the future.
On February 9th 2016 we were welcomed to attend the Railway Inn, Malvern Wells, this homely venue where Kate provided an ample and delicious lunch for us all. The tables were pushed together to provide one large table for us to sit together. This time, members were asked to give me photos of when they were babies, children or teenagers, which I mounted on cards and numbered for people to guess who was who creating a lot of fun and laughter.
The next lunch is scheduled for The Farmer’s Arms, near Castle Morton on Tuesday 10th May. Booking forms will be available soon.

Janet Potter

RAISING MONEY FOR CHARITIES
Samaritan’s Purse
Thanks to our members who attend our indoor painting sessions we have raised £80 in October/November 2015 towards transporting shoeboxes all over the world, containing toys, educational materials, hygiene requisites and warm hats and gloves to the poorest of children who have never had a gift in their lives before. These precious boxes mean they go to school and have the joy of opening their treasured box of delights.

Raising Families
This is a project that Samaritan’s Purse are organising in many parts of Africa where the members of families have to take turns in who will eat each day!! Each family will be supported for 3 years by giving them a small amount of money and tools needed, then shown how to make a living and eventually independence through their own skills with the moral support of missionaries through the Samaritan’s Purse Charity.
We have raised £100 through our on-going table sales of old art magazines, art books and materials donated by members in December to February 2016. Thank you all for your support.

RAISING FUNDS FOR ST RICHARD’S HOSPICE

A big thankyou to Tom Foort for giving the MTA Club Members the first opportunity to purchase Pam’s art books that she so treasured which enabled us to improve our art and to recall fond memories of Pam, who shall all sadly miss.. We have sales from a table top each week during the indoor painting sessions at Lansdowne Hall. In January and February alone we have raised £110 in support of St Richard’s Hospice.
Janet Potter

Janet Potter

2015 Reports

CHAIRMAN’S REPORT

Within this edition of your Newsletter you will discover details of the MTA summer events. I am indebted to the all who have contributed to arranging these, particularly to members of the Committee.
Our Wednesday painting sessions at Lansdowne Hall have proved so popular that it has been agreed to extend them throughout the summer. To avoid conflicts with the outdoor painting program it is proposed that our outdoor and indoor painting sessions will take place on alternate Wednesdays.
I find it a privilege during our indoor refreshment break to be able to walk the tables to see work in progress and marvel at the diversity and competence of our members. Members, I must add, who are very generous in sharing some of the secrets underlying their skills by running workshops for the benefit of everyone. It is little wonder that the attendance of the indoor painting sessions is growing; so much so that the Club has agreed to purchase 2 additional tables. Furthermore, in support of our use of Lansdowne Hall and, on behalf of a grateful membership, the Committee has approved a modest donation of £100 towards the maintenance of the heating system. Consideration is also being given to organising modest exhibitions of members’ work in Lansdowne Hall which can run concurrently with Church Social Functions.
Club membership continues to grow. We welcome several new members and profit hugely from their enthusiastic support. I was particularly pleased to endorse the proposal that Peggy Bould be made an honorary member of the Club in recognition of the series of professional art demonstrations which she has organised over many years. Thank you Peggy.
Finally, please note that participation in our Summer Exhibition is open to MTA Members only. Your MTA Annual Membership expires at the AGM. Subscriptions for the 2014/2015 season were due at the AGM on Saturday November 22nd 2014 and the closing date for subscription, renewal for those who have yet to, is May 1st 2015.
Derek Webb

Report on lunch at Mount Pleasant Hotel
Thursday 9th October 2014
18 of us enjoyed this lunch but the sweet provided was in the form of a cake and it would have been better if a pie or cheese cake had been provided but, the Chef had only joined the staff a few days before!
Car parking was a problem as the hotel had also booked a conference on the same day – even though I had specifically asked in advance if there would be any other event happening and sufficient parking for us!
Railway Inn Malvern Wells
Thursday 24th February 2015
Excellent lunch home-cooked by Kate and much enjoyed by the 22 people present. Delicious food beautifully presented.
As it was Janet McIntyre’s 90th birthday we raised our glasses and sang happy birthday to her.

FUNDS RAISED FOR THE SAMARITANS’ PURSE

In November to December we raised £50 to support the fight against EBOLA by selling art magazines and a table top sale and raffle. We received a letter of thanks from the Samaritan’s Purse who help people in crisis all over the world.

Many thanks to all the indoor painting people for their generous support.

We are now endeavouring to raise money for the next big project of CLEAN WATER in Africa.

Old art books/magazines are very welcome by our members so if you have any to donate please bring them along to indoor sessions. Thank you,
Janet Potter

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 2015

Saturday 21st November 10 for 10.30 am. Church Hall, Lansdowne Crescent, Malvern.

Aka Blake-Jago-Cup will be awarded for the best picture painted during the outdoor sessions.

Please remember your Membership subscription for the 2015-2016 season becomes due at this meeting

AGM MINUTES NOVEMBER 2014

Held at Lansdowne Crescent Methodist Church Hall on Saturday 22nd November
Present: Chair and Committee: Derek Webb, Peggy Bould, Derek Fontaine, Janet Potter, Margaret Price, Janet Pugh, Denise Russell, Lilian Stockton, Paul Thomas, John Tyzzer, Penny Vere, Shirley Vizard, . 26 non-committee members were also present.
Apologies: Eddie Birch, Pat Hibbs, Janet Jones, Anthony Leahy,Ann Woolfson.
Minutes: The minutes of the 2013 AGM were accepted, as proposed by Adrian Fray and seconded by Pat Wells.
Chairman’s Report. Derek Webb reviewed the past year and concluded that we have a very thriving club. Indoor painting sessions have increased and are now held weekly, while the numbers attending have also increased. Cathy Hawkesforth’s refreshments have been very well received. Outdoor painting sessions had been a delight, despite the weather! Derek Fontaine’s barbeques have added to the enjoyment.
Three members of the Committee are standing down this year: Peggy Bould, John Tyzzer and Paul Thomas. Derek thanked them all for the substantial contribution they had made to the Club. Pat Hibbs, Denise Russell and Janet Potter had already offered to take on the organisation of Summer Outdoor Painting, so any suggestions as to venues should be made directly to them.
Derek wished to propose that in future, Honorary Membership should be given only to those members with many years of service to the Club, so that it retained its worth as a fitting honour. A wide-ranging discussion followed: it was acknowledged that Club finances were not impaired by the number of Honorary members, many of whom continued to pay their subs, while others were past being able to be active members, through age or illness. The principle of long-standing service would continue to be rewarded in this way, where appropriate.
Derek also questioned whether e-mailing Newsletters and similar communications could become standard practice, which would save a good deal of expense in postage. After some discussion, the meeting failed to support this idea, as some members don’t have computers. We will continue to send hard copies.
Treasurer’s Report: Margaret Price reported that the Accounts had been audited and approved. Copies of the Accounts were available for inspection. The Bank balance stood at £1,558 on 30.9.14. We are covering day to day expenses; Rental for Lansdowne of £525, New tables £209, Newsletters £156, Insurance £94. We had sent sums of £400 to the Friends of Malvern Community Hospital and £280 to Air Ambulance from the proceeds of the 2 exhibitions (November 2013 and August 2014).
Exhibition Report Janet Pugh referred to her recent report in the Newsletter. The numbers of exhibitors was slightly reduced at the August Exhibition, with 32 members exhibiting 112 framed paintings. This time, prints had been accepted and had not made an adverse impact, so will be accepted again at the next exhibition. The poor weather may have had an effect, as there were only 70 visitors, with a subsequent drop in sales. Sales of cards, however, had done well. The refreshments had also done well; donations, rather than a set price, seems to be the way forward. As already reported, £280 was sent to Air Ambulance. Janet thanked everyone involved, including the painters, for their “super painting”. Penny Vere won the “favourite painting” award with her “Swan at Sunrise”.
There was some discussion of the reasons why sales had dropped: the local demographic being elderly / maybe we should exhibit in Worcester? / no, sales in Worcester are also poor / what about Cheltenham, during the races? Maybe it is just that the economic climate is against us. Derek Webb said that “other venues” could be a subject for future discussion.
Outdoor Painting John Tyzzer told us that Outdoor Painting was one of his favourite activities and that he was delighted with work done by members over the Summer, as evidenced by the display on show at the AGM. The barbequed sausages had been a great innovation. Pat Wells had produced an excellent photographic record (with help from others) of this year’s activities. Pauntley Court had probably proved the best venue and we hope to return there in 2015.
Membership Janet Potter reported that we had enrolled 10 new members this year. It has been choc-a-bloc at Indoor sessions, with 25 to 32 members coming to paint. She asked people to remember to pay membership subs as soon as possible, so that Margaret Price doesn’t have to spend time taking subs at the beginning of every meeting, so losing valuable painting time! The next MTA Lunch will be on 24th February at the Railway Inn, Malvern Wells. There will be another lunch in May, time and place tbd.
The Mini-demos have been a great success. There will two extra dates on Feb. 11th and 25th March, when we will have a model who will be “inspirationally-costumed” as a Flapper (Feb.) and “In the rain” (March). It is entirely optional for members to join in these activities or to just continue “doing their own thing”.
Due to the growing popularity of the indoor painting sessions, the Committee will consider the possible future purchase of more tables.
The possibility of continuing to have Indoor Sessions during the Summer was discussed. The Hall will be available. Derek Webb pointed out that those who wished to attend would need to take responsibility for setting up, refreshments, payment, etc. After considerable discussion, it was agreed to go ahead with this. Derek Fontaine and Bill Sayer offered to take the lead, while Kathy and Pat Wells were willing to oversee refreshments. Payments will need to be passed on to Margaret Price to “go through the books”. Margaret will also need to know exactly which dates to book with Lansdowne. Action: Committee
Winter Challenge The leaflet outlining this year’s challenge is available to members.
Election of New Committee Members A vote of thanks was given to those members of the Committee who were now retiring: John Tyzzer, Peggy Bould and Paul Thomas. They had done sterling work and would be missed. The rest of the existing Committee were willing to continue. Jean Fray proposed that they should be re-elected en masse, Isobel Nichols seconded the proposal, which was carried.
A person to organise Professional Demos was required. Peggy said that demos up to April 2015 were already booked and that she would help her successor in any way she could. Penny proposed Julia Webb, who was willing to take on the task in partnership with Ann Woolfson. Derek seconded the proposal. Julia and Ann were duly and gratefully voted in.
Any Other Business John Tyzzer gave a further explanation of the Winter Project, making clear that members were free to choose 1) the subject matter, 2) the medium of their choice , and 3) whichever 3 colours they wished for the 3-colour project ( he suggested Raw Sienna, Alizarin (or permanent magenta) and Ultramarine).
Pat Wells brought to members; attention the possibility of exhibiting at St. John;s Library in Worcester, which charges £30 per calendar months with no commission for sales under £50, 25% for sales over £50. She had leaflets available for interested members.
Date of Next AGM 21st November 2015 at Lansdowne Crescent Methodist Church Hall.

Interval and Judging
The business part of the AGM having been concluded, members enjoyed the excellent refreshments, while Ros Rowberry began to judge the Summer Paintings. She then gave a constructive critique of all the work on display, which is always encouraging and helpful. There were two categories: the first was John Tyzzer’s Summer Challenge, which required not only a painting of one of the Summer venues, but three studies to be undertaken in preparation, exploring composition and tonal values prior to painting. The Blake-Jago Prize for this category was awarded to Penny Vere for her abstract treatment of Hills above Castlemorton. The other prize was awarded for the Best Summer Painting, with no need for preparatory studies. This prize was awarded to Pat Wells. The meeting concluded with thanks to Ros Rowberry.

March 2014 Reports

CHAIRMAN'S REPORT

Welcome to this the March 2014 issue of the Malvern Terrace Artists Newsletter. Within, MTA Members will find details of future activities and highlights of the past year.

I thank my predecessor, Janet Jones, who has done much to enhance the stature of the Club as Chairperson and as Treasurer prior to that. I am indebted to her for her support together with that of the Committee in organising our future programme. If you have a particular interest, for more detail, you may establish who to approach from the list of Committee members at the end of the Newsletter.

I am pleased to acknowledge the election of Margaret Price as Treasurer and take this opportunity to thank Pat Hibbs who, as the retiring Treasurer, has with distinction acted as such for three years. Pat remains on the committee and takes the lead on MTA publicity. A debt of gratitude is due for the tireless work and enthusiasm of Eddie Birch who retires as a long standing member of the Committee. Paul Thomas joins the Committee and will I am sure do much to lighten the proceedings!

It is always a pleasure to nominate fresh Honorary Members. This year in recognition of their enthusiastic support we enrolled Janet Jones, Pam Foort, David Hope and Pat Hibbs.

Our Summer Exhibition Venue is to be Hanley Swan Village Hall. Janet Pugh has booked this venue for the period Friday August 1st through to August 3rd. The generous car parking facilities available augurs well for enhancing visitor numbers. The opportunity to exhibit artwork is only available to members of Malvern Terrace Artists. Membership renewal remains £10 per annum and becomes due at the AGM. Prompt reenrolment is encouraged in order that the Club may with confidence underwrite its’ future activities.

Our winter meetings in Lansdowne Hall on a Wednesday afternoon are enhanced by a strong programme of workshops for those who wish to take advantage of the advice and guidance on offer. To cope with the growing number of members who attend two additional tables have been purchased.

Lansdowne Hall, has been booked for the 2014 -2015 winter sessions which run from 17th September Welcome to this the March 2014 issue of the Malvern Terrace Artists Newsletter. Within, MTA Members will find details of future activities and highlights of the past year.

It is always a pleasure to nominate fresh Honorary Members. This year in recognition of their enthusiastic support we enrolled Janet Jones, Pam Foort, David Hope and Pat Hibbs.

Our winter meetings in Lansdowne Hall on a Wednesday afternoon are enhanced by a strong programme of workshops for those who wish to take advantage of the advice and guidance on offer. To cope with the growing number of members who attend two additional tables have been purchased.

Lansdowne Hall, has been booked for the 2014 -2015 winter sessions which run from 17th September2014 through to 27th May 2015. There will be no Wednesday meetings on 17th, 24th and 31st December 2014. Those scheduled for 2015 commence on Wednesday 7th January 2015.

The next AGM is set for Saturday 22nd November at Lansdowne Hall commencing 10:30. At this Ros Rowberry has kindly accepted our invitation to provide constructive critique of those paintings submitted for the Blake –Jago Cup 2014 and those paintings produced at our 2014 “en plein air” sites.

Many members possess a computer and have an Email address. If they were prepared to go “paperless” and receive future MTA publications in glorious colour via Email it would cut down our printing and postage costs. Those who prefer to receive hard monochrome copies may of course do so. However, to reduce our overheads and accept colourful MTA correspondence via Email you are invited to Email Lilian Stockton at lilianstockton@talktalk.net

Derek Webb

CLUB LUNCHES REPORT

28TH October 2013 Railway Inn Ripple Again an excellent homemade meal much enjoyed by the 27 attending. Original booking for 31 but due to unforeseen circumstances numbers were reduced.

13th February 2014 Railway Inn Ripple
I think this venue is rated most popular by members as food is always so well cooked and presented, Quantity and Quality excellent. Best value for money.

NEXT MTA lunch Thursday 15th May 2014 New Inn, Lower Howsell Road, Malvern Link
We will have a two course lunch for £7. If you would like to join us with family and friends contact me. Leaflets with details available at our Wednesday afternoon meetings.

Report: raising funds for the Philippines Disaster 2013
Such a huge and dramatic disaster which will take years to recover from and to help them we ran a stall for 3 weeks plus a raffle at the AGM. We raised £108 and sent funds to Medicins Sans Frontiers. A letter of thanks was received together with a magazine showing photos of the work they do all over the world. Thanks to everyone who donated and helped with the stall.

Janet Potter