MEMORIES OF THE FOUNDER
Twenty five years! Is it really that long ago?
Why did I start the Surrey Sculpture Society?
Well, there were two main reasons – one very simple, the wish to exhibit after all that effort to create the blooming things and an annoying lack of opportunities.
The second reason was the need for the company of other creative people. Artists tend to be loaners short of like-minded people.
The title of Founder sounds so grand but it was the efforts of the first twelve members, who met at Chilworth Manor, that allowed the Society to grow so rapidly. The first rule was simple, anyone could join and exhibit so long as it was a sculpture.
It is sad to think of the early members who are no longer with us. Arthur Wren and Dorothy Arthur, to name two of many. Dorothy hosted many of our first life classes. One of my many tasks was to model for some of these.
Our first exhibitions were held in the grounds of Chilworth Manor while it was open for the National Gardens Scheme (I was the Gardener at the time). These exhibitions comprised many styles and techniques which led to our members teaching each other new forms of art. Although my own medium was, and still is, wood my inspiration is the human figure and its abstraction.
22
celebrating 25 years of creativity
CRISPIN RAYNER, Founder
I have been asked what I could not do without and this must be a garden. I have just moved from Norwood Gardens to a new home with half an acre of woodland which presents me with new challenges and materials for my art.
My advice to members would be don’t give up, and listen to other’s advice but don’t necessarily take it. Good art can stimulate thought in others but we should create for ourselves first and hope others "get it".
Although I am a considerable distance away, living in a small village in Mid Wales I do maintain a great interest in the achievements of the Society and its members. I’m proud of my small part in this.
Throughout the years of my involvement with the Society I am particularly grateful for the friendship and support of Jeanne Argent whose work has inspired me.
I look forward to following the continued success of the Society and its members.
Ram by Dorothy Arthur
Augustinian Prior by Bill Lazard