The Tuesday Painters Club of Rye was formed 55 years ago to promote and celebrate the skills of local amateur artists. The club became very popular and at the millennium there were about 200 artist members. It is not to be confused with the earlier-founded Rye Society of Artists which caters primarily for professional artists.
The Tuesday Painters have six meetings a year at St Mary’s Centre which are held on a Monday (much to the amusement of outsiders, because of the name “Tuesday Painters”!) with demonstrations and talks and there are also workshops with a tutor held at the Creative Centre, New Road. Members are sent at least three newsletters every year with details of upcoming events.
There is also an occasional opportunity to paint and sketch outside but this is done on an informal basis. Until recently, there were also trips to London galleries, but these have been discontinued at the moment, until an organizer can be found.
The club also offers members an opportunity to exhibit their paintings in August which can be very rewarding. The Exhibition is very popular with both locals and visitors.
The Tuesday Painters are a friendly bunch and welcome all amateur artists with reasonable abilities who live in the area, and the club provides encouragement and support and a chance to meet up with other artists.
The Annual Subscription is £10 and any amateur artist who might be interested should contact Rosie Frost (telephone 01424 814283) or alternatively by email rosemaryfrostuk@yahoo.co.uk for additional information.
Photo: Rosemary Foot