u3a

South Bucks

Discovering Art

THE DISCOVERING ART STUDY GROUP mainly studies painting, although is interested in all forms of art.

The monthly talks are presented by members except in August when traditionally the group hires a coach to visit a gallery or art collection outside London. A visit may also be arranged at any time should there be an exhibition of particular interest in, say, Cambridge or Birmingham.

A particular school, era, or aspect of painting is studied in depth each year by a small focus group, and its findings usually presented to the main meeting.

Members naturally follow London exhibitions with interest, and the group subscribes to the National Gallery bi-monthly programme. Other programmes and lists of current and future exhibitions are available at meetings.

Two members run the library, others provide the technology, and everyone helps in some way to ensure the group's success.

If you would like to visit Discovering Art, please contact the Convenors Christa Webber and Carole Willatt - agart@sbu3a.org.uk

Previous topics

In January Christine Phillips brought Wellington back to life for us; and what a colourful life, full of achievements (Apsley House with all the treasures). We appreciated all the research that Christine shared with us.

In February James Barrett uncovered the mysteries of the Irish Surrealists. A movement based on reactions to the horrors of war, and the rise of interest in the subconscious and the importance of dreams. We had no idea that there were so many good artists in this group. To name but a few: Colin Middleton (1910-1983) and Jack Butler Yeats (1871-1957) and the wonderful Leonora Carrington (d. in 2019). She was only half Irish but wholly gifted with their spirit.

Trevor Coe also made a contribution with a selection of amusing images which could be seen in very different ways.

In March Vicky Bowen brought us back into the sphere of the lively and original Pre-Raphaelite- Brotherhood. Vicky concentrated much of her enjoyable presentation on John William Waterhouse (1849-1917) and the beauty of his delicate work, especially on the “The Lady of Shalott”.

After that Christa Webber showed us a wonderful Albrecht Durer (1471-1528). A self portrait in a fur coat. A handsome young man. Christa was able to point out many interesting facets of this important work.

In April we were happy to have Eric Harris focus on three remarkable German women artists:

Kathe Kollwitz (1867-1945), a graphic artist and superb sculptor, who expressed her outrage at social injustice. Some sad but impressive images;

Hannah Hoch (1889-1978). A Dada artist living in a post-war 1919 Berlin in turmoil. She became known for her amazing and intricate photo-montages;

Jeanne Mammen (1890-1976) who also worked in Berlin, but had studied in several European cities. She depicted mostly colourful women of all layers in society. She was associated with the New Objectivity movement, and embraced Symbolism and Cubism.