On Saturday, March 23, the Rye Society of Artists (RSA) spring exhibition opened at the Rye Art Gallery (RAG). The links between RAG and RSA go back a long way. The first known society for the arts was in fact set up in Rye by local artist Howard Gull Stormont and his wife, the painter Mary Stormont who lived at the Ypres Studio. They called it the Rye Arts Club. The house and her original bequest of art collection became the Rye Art Gallery as it is known today. Over time there was an influx of new artists to Rye who in the 1950s called themselves RX8, after a local fishing boat. They staged their first exhibition along Rye festival week with paintings, lithographs and sculptures. It was shown at the Mermaid Street School in which then became the Boys’ Club.
RX8 soon merged with new, local, younger artists and the Rye Society of Artists was born. Today they have over 40 members and RAG is delighted to be hosting the eclectic and wonderful mix of art, over 150 artworks of paintings, prints, ceramics, sculptures and photography. RSA invited a few new artists to show their work with the possibility of becoming a full member depending on the membership ballot of the society in the future.
It was a very enjoyable morning, lots of people arriving early to enjoy the eclectic exhibition, wandering around with a glass of bubbly, admiring the variety of the artworks. The feedback from visitors was very positive, both about the show and the space of the gallery. Many said they would return to view everything again and appreciate it at leisure. Dr Julian Day, the director, gave a speech about the artists and how much the gallery loves showing off their art. The visitors came from far and wide and were pleased to meet the artists who were present. It was a fun and successful morning.
The Rye Art Gallery would like to invite people to become friends as this helps to keep the fabric of the gallery sound and provide further great exhibitions. For a friend it is £18, joint friends £33, family membership £40 and corporate from £50. For further information please go to www.ryeartgallery.co.uk or ryeartgallery@gmail.com the phone number is 01797 222433.
Image Credits: Jason McGee , Heidi Foster .