Chairman ’ s Christmas Message
Seasons Greetings
I ' m sad to pass on news that Dawn Catmull , a long term BADFA member , lost her battle with secondary breast cancer in November .
I have known her for about 15 years , when we did teacher training together at Auscraft . Dawn was so passionate about painting and this really came across in her teaching . Because we lived so far apart , I did not get to paint with her nearly often enough . She was such a vibrant lady and full of fun , life , and laughter . She will be missed by her adored and adoring family , and her many friends .
* * * What a difference a year makes . At this stage in 2016 , I was wondering if I could achieve the mammoth task of raising funds for the life changing HSCT for Kirsty ' s MS and Rheumatoid Arthritis . With your help as a group , and individually ( too many to mention ), we made it and she is doing really well .
Again I have broken a promise to myself not to have any work carried out in the house at this time of year ; but we are revamping the studio . Wow ! The things I found when clearing out , recycling , rehoming , discarding etc ! But I still have too much ‘ stuff ’. My students kept reminding me , ‘ it will be lovely when it ’ s done ’.
It has been extra busy for me , as now I have a regular Friday slot at Hobbycraft , where I can promote decorative painting , display my paintings , and promote my classes . If you fancy demonstrating , contact your local branch , they are glad to have people like us .
Other things I have been busy with are new Christmas designs ; a little Bethlehem scene from a sheepy perspective , and a mixed media snowy scene . Seems like I ’ ve been doing these for months so I have enough for craft fairs .
Looking ahead to the New Year - unfortunately we will not be doing the Farnborough Craft Show as the organisers could not get the usual dates , but we look forward to seeing as many of you as possible at BADFA Convention in May for painting fun .
Christmas can be a poignant time for some , especially those who have lost dearly loved ones and because memories are heightened . It really helps to get together with painting friends , so why not invite a few friends over during the break and have some fun !
Lastly I thank our wonderful committee who just keep working on , year after year to keep BADFA alive , well and running – think we are approaching our 24 th year this year . I really do appreciate our team for all their energetic input and commitment so a very Happy Christmas to them and to you all .
Sharon xx
Dawn ’ s funeral will be held at St John ' s Church , St Johns Ave , Churchdown , Gloucester GL3 2DB at 1300hrs on Monday 11 December . After a short service you will be welcome to come back to 40 Parton Road GL3 2AF for something to drink and eat , and Dawn ' s studio will be open etc . Close family will attend a short ceremony at the Crem at 1400hrs and then join everyone . Please no flowers , I will be setting up a thanksgiving page if you wish to donate to charity for secondary breast cancer . Also please feel free not to wear black , Dawn liked colour .