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welcome
Dear Readers,
A warm welcome to Limited Edition number 7.
At the time of writing we have just taken down our second exhibition of 2019 at National Trust Hatchlands Park. We had an exceptionally pleasant work experience working with the NT team who were very helpful, not only on set up day, but also throughout the show. Apart from a magnificent park with various landscapes to accommodate our varied creative output, we also offered our membership an indoor space in a marquee on the lawn in front of the magnificent house. The whole experience was enhanced by the presence of the work of four founder members in honour of our humble beginnings 25 years ago.
The only drawback I can think of is that the exhibition was only open to the public on four days a week. This impacted on sales no doubt. In time I am sure we can build a solid reputation and longstanding working relationship with the National Trust who have various other beautiful properties in impressive settings. We are keen to stage future exhibitions with them on behalf of our membership and curate beautiful and fresh shows for the public.
The history of the SSS is full of ups and downs, like every organization run by volunteers. It is not an easy task. We have, however, never failed to deliver, year on year, quality exhibitions, educational opportunities for the public as well as our members and fellowship in a group of mutually supporting colleagues who otherwise would be working on their own. We are so grateful for the vision of 14 founder members, led by Crispin Rayner. They knew that pulling together would mean we could be more than the sum of the individuals and, who knows, some magic might happen too… and that is exactly what did happen and what we continue to create: There is nothing better than the magical combination of art and nature.
The celebrations around the 25th anniversary took mostly place during our show at Hatchlands. The venue was perfect to organize a Private Viewing and a convivial private party for all our members.
In this issue you will see a selection of the 160 exhibits, you can listen to the opening speech given by Mary Branson, internationally renowned sculptress, and we have also added some pictures of a dinner the Committee enjoyed with some of our founder members.
We are looking forward to continued success during our exhibitions at RHS Wisley Gardens from 17 August to 22 September and at Savill Gardens at the Windsor Crown Estate from 25 September – 24 November.
For more information on our calendar, workshops, activities, please visit our website - always brimming with the latest news and calendar highlights. You can become a ‘friend’ or a non-exhibiting member with a simple click on a button.
You can also follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram and we are very busy populating our YouTube channel with the latest demonstrations and workshops.
Just search for Surrey Sculptors and you will find us immediately on all platforms.
Although the organisation for the Wisley show is in full swing behind the scenes, most of us will have a bit of breathing space until that set-up day arrives.
May I, therefore, wish everyone a sunny, successful and happy summer.
Henriette van der Does
Chair
Paris la Nuit I and II by Henriette van der Does