A new exhibition will celebrate seven decades of inspiration at the 'art' of the community.
Bearsden Art Club's 70th Anniversary Exhibition is being hosted by the Lillie Art Gallery, Milngavie, from 4 March to 30 March 2023.
It will flow through the building, with works by current members in Gallery 1, art created by primary school pupils as part of a club competition ('What I See in Bearsden') in Gallery 2 and historic paintings by members from the Lillie's permanent collection in Gallery 3.
The exhibition will be officially opened at 2.30pm on Saturday 4 March by member and Past President Sir Michael Bond. Entry is free.
Bearsden Art Club traces its roots back to an evening class in 1953, when a group of aspiring artists met and decided to work together.
President Moira May said, "The motivation was about encouraging individuals to paint and draw, to be creative. While promoting an interest in art, they discovered that it also supported mental health and wellbeing. This is still true today in 2023, which makes Bearsden Art Club as relevant now as it was in 1953."
Initial get-togethers were outdoor painting sessions, but over the years as the club evolved, demonstrations were arranged with professional artists and teachers. Classes have grown and expanded, taking place in locations such as Bearsden Academy, Kilmardinny House and Baljaffray Parish Church.
There is a great sense of pride in the club when a show is taking place in the Lillie.
Moira said, "The atmosphere in the classes is relaxed, friendly and enjoyable. The club currently has around 100 painting members and about another 70 who like to attend the meetings.
"There is a great sense of pride in the club when a show is taking place in the Lillie.”
The gallery has hosted the club's annual exhibition since 1983. Each member is allowed to submit two works, which can include ceramics and textiles. Annually around 180 works of art are displayed, with a number of prizes awarded.
Jim Neill - Chair of East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture Trust, which operates the Lillie Art Gallery - said, "Congratulations to everyone associated with Bearsden Art Club, which has provided an incredible 70 years of inspiration, support and friendship locally. I’m delighted the Lillie will be once against hosting the annual exhibition and hope as many people as possible get the chance to enjoy the array of cultural treasures on display.”
Bearsden Art Club's 70th Anniversary Exhibition is on at the Lillie Art Gallery, Station Road, Milngavie, G62 8BZ, from 4 March to 30 March 2023. For opening times, visit lillie art gallery exhibitions webpage.
People who live in the Bearsden, Milngavie and surrounding areas can apply to join the club for a small fee.
Over the years, outings, workshops and social events have been arranged and well supported. As part of the club's 70th anniversary year, there will be a visit to the refurbished Burrell Collection, a one-day workshop with a local artist, and a dinner and speaker.
