MEMBERS of a borough arts group were treated to an ‘amusing and educational study day’.
Led by Chantal Brotherton-Ratcliffe, the event was aimed at improving The Arts Society Wokingham’s observational skills.
Chantal demonstrated to her audience that they already had forensic skills.
She told them that, for example, people can often identify a letter from someone they know well, from the handwriting on the envelope.
Similarly with artists, she said, it is possible to recognise the difference between a Raphael and a Rubens.
Publicity manager for the group Sue Bryant said: “Chantal pointed out that it might be more difficult to distinguish between a Rubens and a Van Dyke..
“But by the end of the afternoon many in the audience realised that they could now do this, thanks to what they had learnt.”
Along the way the group had also learnt about pigments, copyists, craquelure and much
More.
“Next week members of the Society are travelling to London for a walking tour around the
redeveloped King’s Cross Coal Drops Yard.” continued Ms Bryant.
“As well as admiring Thomas Heatherwick ‘s architectural designs, they will also hear about the fight to retain historic features, the effect of huge development on local residents, and the effects of Covid on the project.”
The society’s October lecture will be on The Life and Art of Georgia O’Keeffe..
The artist rose to fame in early 20th century America when painting was still considered not a suitable occupation for women.
She is famous for her landscapes, cityscapes and notorious outsized flower paintings.
The talk, by Lydia Bauman, will take place at King’s Academy, Binfield, on Monday October 16.
Doors open at 7.30pm
Guests are always welcome but are asked to email: [email protected] to register beforehand.
The talk will also be live streamed and available to watch from home on the society’s YouTube channel.
For further details, visit: www.The ArtsSocietyWokingham.org.uk