A BOROUGH group that meets to discuss and learn about all aspects of the arts, has released its new programme of talks and studies.
Members of the Arts Society Wokingham have been enjoying talks, exclusive visits and in-depth study days for the past 10 years.
Their new season will opened by guest speaker Chantal Brotherton-Ratcliffe, who will shed light on a renowned yet controversial Italian painter of the late 1500s and early 1600s, in her talk, Caravaggio: A Rebel With A Cause.
Subsequent lectures will delve into music, photography, painting (from the golden age of the Dutch masters through to David Hockney), book illustration, architecture and garden design.
The lecturers are all experts in their field, and seasoned public speakers, with talks live streamed to the society’s own YouTube channel for members unable to attend in person.
Study days at Wokingham Theatre enable members to explore topics in more depth, and are an opportunity to chat and make new friends over a buffet lunch.
Study Day topics this coming season include 100 Years of the National Gallery, Nordic Arts, The Venice of Bellini and Carpaccio, and The Art of Cornwall 1880-1975.
And the next in a series of visits to places of historic and artistic interest, will be to Kelmscott Manor, including coach travel from Wokingham, refreshments on arrival, a private guided tour of the house and a buffet lunch.
“We’re keen to support community projects that encourage young people to expand their horizons and realise their personal potential through involvement in creative arts activities,” said Sue Bryant from The Arts Society Wokingham.
“Last year we supported St Crispin’s School by providing theatre trips, art gallery visits, sheet music, a Digital Theatre + subscription, singing lessons and musical instrument lessons.
“Our funding supports children who may not otherwise be able to afford access to these activities.”
There are around 200 members in the group, which is keen to welcome new joiners and guests.
They meet on the third Monday evening of the month (excluding August and December) at King’s Academy, Binfield.
Refreshments are served from 7.15pm, followed by an illustrated talk lasting about an hour.
Guests and new members are always welcome, and should register interest beforehand, by emailing: memsectheartssocietywham@gmail.com.
The first talk of the new season takes place at King’s Academy, on Monday, September 16, at 7.15pm.
For information, visit: https://theartssociety.org/wokingham
