Our first Art Exhibition was held on Saturday 28th & Sunday 29th 2015 at Storrington Village Hall, Storrington, West Sussex. The aim of the exhibition was to showcase the talented artwork of local artists in my classes and to raise money for Alzheimer's Society and Parkinson's UK.

Over twenty of us submitted a total of 109 paintings to view and sell and everyone who wished to enter their work were welcomed. The event opened to the public from 10am-4pm both days and 160 people came despite the gales blowing outside. It was free entry so most people stayed a while to look around, sample the homemade cakes on offer and enjoy a chat and a cuppa. There were some lovely comments about the standard and variety of artwork and the way it was presented. We sold eight paintings in total (including two from the browser) with 25% of artwork sales and all the proceeds from the arty raffle, refreshment sales, profits and donations split between the two charities.

After costs and artists' payments we raised a few pence short of £485 including the online giving page!!

There was a huge variety of artwork on display in oil, acrylic, watercolour, pencil, pastel, ink and mixed media all of different subjects from landscapes, animals, still life and portraits. It was fantastic to see everyone's artwork together and showed what a varied and creative bunch of talented people come to my classes! It was great fun getting everyone together and meeting friends and family to.

My thanks to all who took part - those of you who submitted your artworks, made cakes, gave your time to help out during the event and to Lynne & Ian Friel and Robert Olliver-Jones for their invaluable help, advice and hard work behind the scenes.

I am keeping the online giving page open for a while in case there are some who would still like to contribute (tell your family & friends!). Please visit: www.virginmoneygiving.com/team/katesartclasses

Some quotes from the 'Comments Book':

“Great Exhibition - very high standard of work beautifully displayed!”

“The exhibition was great lots of lovely work.”

“A lovely way to spend an afternoon looking at fine exhibits!”

“A beautiful calm & supportive serenity in the atmosphere of the work and the room - Kate’s classes are clearly bringing much joy and growing skills to the world. Much encouragement to all!”