The society was launched in March 1934, and at the founding meeting a resolution was passed; “that an Arts and Craft Society for Petersfield be formed, having as its chief objective the holding of an annual exhibition for all kinds of professional and amateur work.”
This annual exhibition still thrives today, and is known and respected throughout the county for its very high standard of exhibits, is open to all members, whose numbers at this time currently approach 300, is not pre selected, and which continually delight and enthral the many visitors who come to The Festival Hall during that 1 marvellous week at the end of August. Along with the exhibition society members are treated to well planned and innovative demonstrations or lectures on a monthly basis, given by specialists in various artistic fields; and very highly sought after workshops and location painting sessions are made available at various times throughout the year. Those interested in ceramics have a special all day demonstration annually, and stage their own specific exhibition prior to Christmas.
Immensely popular excursions take place to the major London exhibitions eg. imminently Tate Britain for ‘Watercolour’ with the added bonus of a guided tour of The Houses of Parliament; with future tempting days out on offer, to include ‘Art in Action’ (out of the capital near Oxford) in July, and in December to The National Gallery for ‘Leonardo Da Vinci- Painter at the Court of Milan’.
Added to all the above The Society runs at least 2 outdoor exhibitions right in the centre of the bustling market town, to which all members can contribute and help to run on the day.
Our website, not only holds a wealth of information about The Society and how to become a member, but also showcases members work and interesting news. We would be delighted to welcome you to one of our exhibitions, and equally to welcome you as a guest at one of our monthly meetings, details of which can be accessed on the website