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Exhibition: a thank you from our chair

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 12:14:24 GMT

Yesterday marked the conclusion of our annual exhibition at St. Mary, Devizes, showcasing the incredible talent of the Lawrence Art Society members...

I would like to extend my gratitude to all our contributors for their exceptional exhibits, to the volunteers who assisted with stewarding, setup, and takedown, and to the dedicated committee whose unwavering commitment brought this event to life.

A special thank you also goes to the members of the public who attended and made it all worthwhile, as well as to our fantastic sponsors and supporters – The Castle Hotel , Roses Butchers , Sydenhams , T H White , and Roy Evans. Your support means so much to us.

Finally, I'd also like to extend a warm welcome to all our new members who've been inspired to join the society after attending the exhibition. We look forward to sharing your creative journey.

Thank you all."

~ Sam Weller, Chair

Exhibition demo: oil painting local landscapes by Simon Bishop

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 12:13:20 GMT

Wed, 08 July, 2026, 10.30–15.30

St Mary, Devizes

Wednesday's exhibition demo featured the talented artist and LAS member, Simon Bishop.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

On the penultimate day of our 2026 Art Exhibition and Sale in St Mary, Devizes, local artist and LAS member Simon Bishop painted live from mid-morning until early to mid-afternoon, highlighting the beauty of local landscapes. For Simon, landscapes are dynamic and ever-changing, with their impressions shaped by memory and sensation. This fluid perspective is what he strives to capture in his artwork.

In addition to landscapes, Simon brings his artistic vision to portraiture, using patterns and shaped imagery to frame and enrich his subjects. He believes that a portrait should transcend mere resemblance, reflecting the complex perceptions that arise from human interaction.

With a strong focus on composition, Simon aims to create art that is both meaningful and visually captivating. Throughout the day, he plans to complete three paintings, dedicating approximately one hour to each piece, and he warmly invites you to witness his creative process.

We hope you enjoyed this unique opportunity to see Simon Bishop as he brought local scenery and human connection to life.

Wednesday 8 July, 10:30–15:30

Be sure to follow us on social media to stay updated on future demos at this year's exhibition.

Visit Simon's facebook page here .

Exhibition demo: oil painting by Paul Oakley

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 11:31:44 GMT

Tuesday, 07 July, 2026, 14:00

St Mary, Devizes

Tuesday's exhibition demo is presented by the talented artist and LAS member, Paul Oakley.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

On the afternoon of Tuesday, 07 July, come along to St Mary in Devizes to witness a live painting session by Paul Oakley, a talented LAS member and artist, as part of our art exhibition and sale.

Primarily self-taught in oil painting, Paul honed his skills at Norfolk Painting School. Beyond exhibiting his artwork, he is dedicated to sharing his knowledge with others. From his Pewsey Vale Studio in Wiltshire, Paul conducts courses and demonstrations, providing valuable insights into his artistic journey.

Don’t miss the chance to see this oil painting genius in action.

Be sure to follow us on social media to stay updated on future demos at this year's exhibition.

Visit Paul's website here .

Exhibition demo: landscape oil painting by Jean Perrett

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 19:04:49 GMT

Monday, 06 July, 2026

St Mary, Devizes

Monday's exhibition demo was presented by the talented artist and LAS member, Jean Perrett.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Jean Perrett 's impressionist-inspired paintings are characterised by loose brushwork and vibrant colours and have been showcased at prestigious venues including The RUH Bath and The Oriel Gallery at The National Botanical Gardens of Wales.

Currently, her work is on display at Lawrence Art Society's annual exhibition at St. Mary in Devizes , at Handle House Gallery in Devizes, and she has been featured in various exhibitions, including The Pound Open, The Oexman, Trowbridge Town Arts, the Salisbury Open Exhibition, and the Swindon Museum and Art Gallery. Additionally, her artwork has received recognition in The National Trust magazine and Galleries Magazine on multiple occasions. Our visitors were thrilled to witness her create a stunning landscape in St Mary's today.

Be sure to follow us on social media to stay updated on future demos at this year's exhibition.

Visit Jean's website here .

Art Unleashed: Showcase of Talent at the Lawrence Art Society Exhibition

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 12:50:58 GMT

We are excited to invite you to the Lawrence Art Society's 2026 exhibition and sale, now open daily from 10 am to 5 pm at St Mary in Devizes until Thursday, July 9th. This year's showcase features a diverse range of works from talented local artists that you won't want to miss.

Named in honor of our most celebrated local artist, Sir Thomas Lawrence, a child prodigy who began his artistic journey in this very town, the Lawrence Art Society has been a vital part of our community since its formal establishment in 1953. We welcome artists of all skill levels and mediums from Devizes and surrounding areas, providing a nurturing environment for connection, collaboration, and artistic growth.

Much of the artwork on display is available for purchase at reasonable prices, with prints and greeting cards also offered. Our exhibition has moved from the Town Hall to the spacious, airy St Mary’s Arts Centre on New Park Street this year. This new location offers a relaxed atmosphere where visitors can freely explore the art, with pews guiding their journey through the exhibit.

What sets our exhibition apart is its incredible variety. Unlike traditional themed shows, our showcase celebrates a wide array of artistic styles. While most pieces are paintings—spanning abstract, impressionist, and expressionist styles- we also feature captivating wire sculptures and a wide range of subjects. Expect to see breathtaking depictions of Wiltshire’s natural beauty and local landmarks that capture the essence of our community.

You’ll find renowned artists such as Simon Bishop and Alan Watters exhibiting alongside a talented cohort that includes Stephen Benison, Brenda Loveland, Paul Oakley, Jean Perrett, and many more, totalling around 50 artists in this impressive display. With so much artistic talent on display, choosing a favourite can be a delightful challenge.

We urge everyone to take a break from their daily routines to visit this extraordinary exhibit, which is open from 10 am to 5 pm each day until July 9th.

For fellow artists contemplating joining the Lawrence Art Society, we host monthly demonstrations, en plein air outings, weekly and monthly social painting gatherings, and provide connections to local exhibitions and art groups. Most importantly, we foster a friendly environment where artists can share experiences and further develop their skills. This annual exhibition exemplifies our ethos and is truly worthy of your time.

Member discount: life drawing and painting studio day

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 11:30:53 GMT

Lawrence Art Society members' EARLYBIRD DISCOUNT FOR LIFE DRAWING EVENT BOOKED BEFORE THE END OF JULY.

Event:
Life Drawing & Painting Studio Day

Location:
Bromham Community Hub

New Road, Bromham

Chippenham SN15 2JB

Date:
Saturday, 05 September

Earlybird Price:
£75 £65 (book by end of July)

Unleash Your Creativity at this Life Drawing and Painting Studio Day in Chippenham

Attention all members! A fantastic opportunity is coming up at the Bromham Community Hub for you to hone your craft. This non-profit event, organised by Lachlan Robertson, is designed specifically for artists looking to create considered artwork with professional models.

This day-long session is perfect for artists at any level, providing an environment to focus on long poses that enable deeper exploration of form and expression. With two professional models available, you’ll have the freedom to develop your technical skills and artistic intuition.

Special Offer for Lawrence Art Society Members

As an added incentive, members of the Lawrence Art Society can take advantage of an exclusive early-bird discount: book your place before the end of July and receive £10 off the standard price. This allows members to join the session for just £65, making it an even more accessible and enriching experience.

This event promises to be a creative haven, encouraging artists of all levels to connect while working on their art in a supportive atmosphere. Whether you’re looking to refine your drawing or painting techniques or simply want to enjoy a day dedicated to your creative pursuits, this opportunity offers the perfect setting.

Spaces are limited, so members are encouraged to secure their spots well in advance.

To book your place or for more information, please call Lachlan Robertson on 07943 842 861 or click here to send an email . Let him know you're an LAS member to get your Early-Bird discount.

Don’t miss out on this chance to be inspired and invigorate your artistic journey at the Bromham Community Hub.

News: Bringing the Tiger to life: Jonathan Newey Acrylic Animal Portrait Masterclass

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 12:40:40 GMT

Demo held: Monday, 01 June, 2026

Award-winning artist, Jonathan Newey, celebrated for his nature-inspired drawings and paintings, joined us on 01 June for an inspiring demonstration on creating animal portraits in acrylic paint.

Jonathan Newey's demonstration of painting animal portraits offered LAS members a multi-layered learning experience.

He utilised a variety of materials, including a selection of synthetic brushes, some old ones for fur textures, alongside System3 Acrylics for thicker applications, golden fluid acrylics for lighter layers, and acrylic inks, all applied over three coats of white gessoed MDF, with Payne’s Grey incorporated into the final coat.

Next, we focused on the tiger's eye, where Jonathan mixed thinner paint using white, Yellow Ochre, Cadmium Yellow, and a hint of Payne’s Grey. The highlight for the eye would be added later.

For the fur colour, Jonathan guided us through the stages of his process: starting with darker shades, then gradually moving to lighter ones, and finishing with a transparent white. He used a damp brush with a mix of Yellow Ochre, Burnt Sienna, and Payne’s Grey to facilitate smoother application. The goal was to achieve a progressive tonal range leading to the final touches, with initial work remaining rough.

To enhance the colour and texture of the fur, Jonathan employed an old, frayed brush, applying a mix of thin Yellow Ochre and Titanium White, emphasising directional strokes.

Finally, to ensure the fur achieved the desired colour, Jonathan layered a transparent white glaze over the entire painting. He added the whiskers with a pointed brush, sweeping them in Titanium White for a delicate finishing touch.

The demonstration was a fantastic experience for our members, who left feeling inspired and eager to apply what they had learned. Jonathan's engaging style and the captivating subject matter made for an enjoyable evening, fostering a renewed appreciation for the art of animal portraiture.

The Artist

Jonathan Newey comes from a long line of artists and specialises in drawings and paintings of wildlife, architecture and impressionist landscapes. Learn how to draw animals from his various books and watch him paint an animal portrait in acrylics when he joins us in June.

Visit Jonathan's website here .

News: brushstrokes of Bordeaux

Sat, 30 May 2026 12:05:16 GMT

Demo held: Monday, 18 May, 2026

Ian McManus, a talented watercolour artist from East Anglia, gave an inspiring demonstration that captivated members with his skill and insight. Using a Bordeaux street scene, he showed how washes, colour mixing, shadows, and highlights can bring light, depth, and movement to life in watercolour.

For his demo, Ian began with a prepared pencil sketch of a street scene in Bordeaux. He worked on this sketch using a series of washes on a dry cotton canvas sheet, applying the paint with a 2” squirrel mop brush.

For the sky, he used a grey-blue-mauve mix, while the mid-ground buildings were painted with a blend of India Yellow and Burnt Sienna. Light brown was used for the tiled roofs and window edges, which were softened with broken architectural lines.

After cleaning his palette, Ian moved on to apply a large shadow area on the canvas, softening it and adding a tree on the left-hand side using a turquoise and Brown Madder mix. He flicked the brush over this area after applying a loose form. Next, he sharpened and darkened the building lines on the right-hand side while shaping the shadows there. To keep the painted areas moist, Ian used an orchid mister spray.

In the mid/foreground, Ian introduced people and tables in the shadow, marking them to bring them out of the grey. Birds were added in the sky as spatial markers for depth. The people's faces were painted with a mix of Cadmium Orange and Burnt Sienna, with brighter tones in the focal area and darker shades in the background. He emphasised the importance of keeping head heights consistent throughout the scene. Shadows of the people and the right-hand-side tree in the alley were then applied, with darker areas given a translucent quality to create depth and finished with highlights in Titanium White Gouache.

Throughout his demonstration, Ian provided detailed insights into his techniques, sharing ideas that were both new and exciting.

What the audience witnessed was the work of a master watercolour artist, who created an evocative picture of light, shadow, and movement in just over an hour. Many attendees remarked that they would admire such a piece daily if they owned it.

The Artist

Ian is a professional watercolour artist and a full member of the IEA whose atmospheric work captures moments from everyday life. He is especially known for vibrant street scenes, while also painting a wide variety of subjects, including coastal, pastoral, interior, and landscape settings. His style emphasises direct brushwork and expressive energy, creating watercolours with transparency and freedom rather than traditional layered washes.

Visit Ian's website here .

News: Layers of Light: Simon Bishop’s Landscape Demo

Fri, 01 May 2026 10:31:58 GMT

Demo held: Monday, 13 April, 2026

Talented LAS member Simon Bishop took us through his approach to using water-mixable oil paints, which he uses in both landscapes and portraiture.

Simon began with a quick landscape sketch on white-emulsioned MDF, then built depth and atmosphere with a trowel and brushes, using clean water to soften edges and guide the viewer’s eye with light.

With a small trowel, Simon added detail and perspective. Then refined the foreground colour and mid-ground copse colour with a small flat brush. Next, changing to a big, soft brush, the existing colours were moved around using clean water and broad strokes. Removing hard lines and directing the viewer’s eye with light, with focus on the copse and fence posts.

For his second piece, Simon painted Storm Over St. James Church, using the same method to even greater effect.

Starting with rough sketches, he blocked in the main shapes and colours, introduced rays of light, then blended and adjusted layers as the paint dried to refine the church tower and surrounding landscape.

A thoroughly enjoyable and informative evening.

The Artist

A member of the Lawrence Society, Simon has developed a distinctive technique for using water-mixable oil paints, which he uses for both portrait and landscape paintings.

See more of Simon's paintings on Facebook .

News: members invited to submit exhibition entry forms

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 13:14:33 GMT

The Lawrence Art Society invites all members to participate in this year’s much-anticipated Annual Art Exhibition and Sale. This vibrant event will showcase the artistic talents of our community and offer members a unique opportunity to display and sell their work.

Entry Forms

All interested members must complete and submit their entry forms by the deadline of 22 May 2026. The forms can be found on our website here .

Deadline for Submission

Please ensure your entry forms are submitted by 22 May. Late entries may not be considered.

Exhibition Dates

The exhibition will take place from 02–09 July 2026, providing an excellent platform for artists to connect with buyers and fellow enthusiasts.

We encourage every member to take part in this celebration of creativity and expression. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a newcomer, your contributions are vital to the success of our exhibition.

For further information or any inquiries, feel free to reach out via our contact page on the website. Let’s come together to make this year’s exhibition a memorable experience for all.

We look forward to seeing your incredible art on display.

News: Lawrence Art Society unveils refreshed brand and new website

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 19:32:03 GMT

Devizes-based Lawrence Art Society has launched a refreshed visual identity and a new website designed to make it easier for local artists, collectors and visitors to explore the group’s activities and work. The site leads with the rallying line 'explore, engage, and be inspired' and organises membership information, artist galleries, events and exhibition details in a clear, modern layout.

A clearer home for membership, events and galleries

The redesigned site groups core information into intuitive sections: Who We Are (history and venues), Our Artists (featured galleries and contact options), Exhibition & Sale , Membership and News & Events , so prospective members and visitors can quickly find what they need. The site also features artist galleries, a newsletter sign-up and social links, making it straightforward to connect with the society's members and the wider community.

Practical details for visitors and artists

The site lists the society’s upcoming calendar, including the Devizes Annual Exhibition (St Mary, Devizes), scheduled for 2–9 July 2026, as well as specific events such as a plein-air outing , art group get-togethers , and monthly social painting sessions. Clearly displayed dates and event pages make it easier for members and the public to plan visits and participate.

Honouring a local legacy

Named for Sir Thomas Lawrence, the society continues to position itself as a community-focused organisation that celebrates both regional artistic heritage and contemporary practice. The new site reinforces that mission by combining historical context with current programming and opportunities for engagement, including demonstrations , exhibitions , and plein-air gatherings.

What the refresh means for the community

By modernising its online presence and introducing a bold new logo that reflects the society’s creative spirit, Lawrence Art Society has made its activities more discoverable for residents and visitors to Devizes, Wiltshire. The clearer navigation and prominent event listings should help the society attract new members, increase exhibition attendance and make it easier for buyers to find and contact exhibiting artists. This is also an invitation for existing members to update galleries and take advantage of new promotional opportunities.

Encouraging new members of all ages and abilities

The refreshed visual identity and contemporary website layout make the society feel more accessible and inviting to people at every stage of their artistic journey. The new logo and friendly imagery signal a welcoming, contemporary community, while simple navigation highlights beginner-friendly activities, family events and affordable membership options. Together, these changes reduce barriers to entry, encourage younger participants and returners to art, and reassure less experienced makers that the society values development alongside exhibition — helping to grow a more diverse, intergenerational membership .

How to get involved

The Society invites artists and art lovers to join the society , contribute towards the featured artists' galleries , sign up for the monthly newsletter, and attend upcoming demonstrations and the annual exhibition . For anyone interested in local art in Devizes, the refreshed Lawrence Art Society website is a convenient entry point to the group’s programme and membership options.

If you have any questions, feedback, or notice any errors on our new website, please get in touch using our contact form .

PLEIN AIR: SPIN HILL, MARKET LAVINGTON

Sun, 12 Apr 2026 11:45:41 GMT

Spin Hill, Market Lavington

Saturday,

25 April 2026

13:30-16:00

The society have been invited to paint en plein air at a celebration of a new orchard at the bottom of Spin Hill, Market Lavington.

It is located beside a small meandering stream through woodland in a pretty dell. Organised by a community group, there will be local craft demonstrations, such as stonemasonry, hurdle-making and basket weaving, to view and enjoy while we are there.

Do support the community group. No need to let Jean know if you plan to attend. All are welcome.

Directions :

The event runs from 13.30 until 16:00 in the Community Park, Market Lavington. Parking is a little difficult. There are car parks at Broadwell (SN10 4DZ), the Community Hall (SN10 4DG), and the Market Place (SN10 4AH), with limited-time parking on the High Street. Grove Road, nearest to the park, has no yellow lines.

The nearest postcode to the venue is SN10 4DJ. This is for four houses (Beechwood) that sit in front of the park on Grove Road. The woodland and Park can be accessed by a footpath behind Number 1 Beechwood.

The park can also be accessed on foot from the bus shelter on Grove Road and from the bottom of Ladywood, but this is a small residential street and a little tight for vehicles.

News: a demo with a difference

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 19:58:53 GMT

Demo held: Monday, 02 March, 2026

This was a demonstration with a difference; verve, style and panache, together with a layering of gouache we were unfamiliar with. Kate Wrigglesworth, a self-confessed dancer and set designer who incorporated both skills into her painting at the demonstration, entranced us all.

Over a sketch on 300g stretched paper, with iridescent Winsor and Newton paints added, she began her layer quest. Keeping the brushwork loose, Kate stroked the surface with blues and yellows before adding defining black and red marks.

Placing movement into the image with clouds and sea, as well as pennants, bunting and strings of lights, she played with the surface, bringing it back, taking it forward. Lifting it with quirky placement of birds and animals.

After the break, Kate was in blocking-in mode, and the intensity of the areas was being built up, keeping the sky and sea free of ‘blockiness’.

More details with smaller brushes began to pull the work together. As Kate danced over the surface at will, finding areas to alter or embellish, she was having fun, and so were we.

Towards the end, there were bolder colours brought into play, as our dance with her drew to a close. There were still days of work to be done, but it was a gift to be a part of.

The Artist

Kate Wrigglesworth is a freelance practising artist, designer and dancer based in Bewdley, Worcestershire. As well as working on commissions for paintings, she also work as an artist in residence, in schools and communities.

Visit Kate's website here .

News: light, shadow and likeness

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 11:15:09 GMT

Demo held: Monday 2nd February 2026

Stewart Beckett specialises in oil portraiture, focusing on capturing the sitter’s character and essence through careful use of light, form, and the face's sculptural qualities. Drawing inspiration from human connection and emotion, Stewart aims to create meaningful portraits.

During a live demonstration with volunteer Brenda, Stewart began by sketching the face and central features on a mid-grey painted board, using broad, fluid brushstrokes. The initial palette included a blend of black, white, and chromium green for the hair, complemented by a generic light skin tone. He emphasised starting with the lightest tones and considering their relationship to surrounding areas, noting that early stages involve a degree of uncertainty.

Stewart then developed depth by introducing contrasting light and shadow, beginning with the eye sockets, using a purple-and-orange mix, enhanced with cerulean blue and an orange-red. Similar techniques were applied to the nose and its shadows, maintaining loose strokes, with highlights on the forehead in yellow and white. The transition at the hairline was refined, followed by a rough outline of the shoulders to anchor the head within the composition.

Further definition was achieved by accentuating the ridge between the eyes, darkening the skin tone to a pinkish-brown, and refining the relationship between the hair and the face. Under the eyebrows, lighter tones were applied, and the placement of light reflections was carefully considered to maintain an authentic yet flexible appearance. Stronger marks in cerulean blue and black were placed around the collar, with pink and purple tones for the neck and violet for shadows. Final detailing was executed with a small brush, adjusting elements as needed. Unfortunately, the portrait was not finished that night, requiring additional days to complete.

The Artist

Hampshire based Stewart has taken part in both Landscape and Portrait Artist of the Year and has recently been elected as an associate of the Royal Institute of Oil Painters.

Stewart is a seasoned visual artist, standing at the intersection of tradition and contemporary expression, weaving a captivating narrative that transcends the transient allure of invention. In a world where the relentless pursuit of the new often overshadows the treasures of the past, he takes on the noble responsibility of preserving the profound wisdom that propels artistic evolution.

Visit Stewart's website here .

News: bringing winter to life

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 10:44:47 GMT

Demo held: Monday, 05 January, 2026

Nigel’s demonstration showed how a winter scene can emerge from bold beginnings, starting with a loose dark‑orange sketch on an orange ground and building atmosphere through free, impressionistic brushwork and a limited primary palette.

The painting process began with a loose, dark orange sketch on an orange canvas, creating a vibrant base enhanced with darker acrylic accents. A limited palette of primary colours was used, allowing for the mixing of all necessary tones.

Initial brushstrokes were applied freely to establish a soft-focus, impressionistic effect. Cooler blues were warmed by blending with red, yellow, and white, while distant areas were softened for depth and visual balance. The snow was rendered with increasingly lighter tones towards the foreground, and shadows were achieved using blue and lilac hues.

Tree browns were enriched with red, and stonework was created by mixing blue, white, and red. In the final stages, details were refined, light effects were introduced, and gaps were filled. The ‘Tip Dab Treatment’ was applied to the foreground hedges, layering subtle colours side by side to create highlights and a sense of unity across the composition. This is where Nigel had to leave it.

The final work below was done at home and shows the way final touches bring a painting to life.

The Artist

Nigel's work primarily begins with looking and drawing. Everything builds from this. starting point. For him, drawing is an investigation, a method of recording an experience and expressing ideas and emotions.

The subject matter, whether it be a woodland view, a coastal scene or the dynamic movement of a figure, helps suggest his approach and influences his choice of materials. At all times, he seeks to extend his visual vocabulary to communicate something about the world we live in.

Visit Nigel's website here .

PLEIN AIR: WOODY'S FARM

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 15:01:38 GMT

Woody's Farm

Thursday, 9 October 2025

09:30-12:30

By kind permission of Mr and Mrs Noad, Lawrence Art Society members have been invited to paint at this historic character farm with an overgrown ruined farmhouse, penned goats, chickens, and calves.

As this is a working farm, we will need to stay on the vending side of the No Admittance signs for biosecurity measures and safety.

Numbers are limited, so please click here to book your place.

Directions: turn left off A361 at the start of The Stand, park in the roped-off vending area.

SAVE THE DATE: ANNUAL LAWRENCE ART SOCIETY EXHIBITION IN DEVIZES

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 20:12:50 GMT

The countdown is on to the Lawrence Art Society's Annual Exhibition. Save the date...

02 - 09 JULY 2026

Experience a vibrant display of artistic talent from the Society's members and the wider community.

In 2026, the exhibition will be held in the former church, now venue – St. Mary, Devizes, behind the Castle Hotel on New Park Street. This event is a highlight of our calendar, attracting art enthusiasts from across the region. It’s a fantastic opportunity for artists to showcase their work and for visitors to admire and purchase unique pieces.

Exhibit...

Whether you’re an experienced artist or just starting, we encourage you to participate and share your creativity with us.

Attend...

View and buy original artworks by local artists at accessible prices. The exhibition will be held in St Mary, Devizes. Entry is free.

Demo: Collagraph printing by Hannah Cantellow

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 15:54:12 GMT

Monday, 03 August, 2026, 19:15 – 21:00

Conservative Club, Long Street, Devizes SN10 1NW

Hannah Cantellow is a Wiltshire-based artist and printmaker, specialising in linocut, woodcut prints and illustrative designs.

Much of her work is inspired by a love of nature, landscape and archaeology, and this is reflected in her work. Hannah will be demonstrating Collagraph printing, where a textured plate is created, then inked and printed.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Hannah believes that when something is carved, it is transformed, made real, discoverable.

The nature of working with both wood and linoleum becomes an alchemical process and experience. It is the conjuring of an image into being that is how printmaking stole her heart. The act of printing is a physical one, carving stories and uncovering tales, creating imaginary places combined with real life and lived ones.

The language of marks she translates from the natural world brings her landscapes to life through sweeping lines, undulating shapes, wide, fluid skies, rhythmic patterns, and movement.

She hopes to evoke a sense of experience, as if you’ve just been there, falling in love with the world again. A connection with a place, with a story, even if it is for a fleeting minute, a connection to ourselves, place, history, spirit and nature – this means everything to her. An impression on paper, but a lasting impression in the heart. This is what she works to create: a window into her world, a moment where you can dream into what you see, pause, ponder, connect, question, and unravel.

Hannah creates to reveal the interconnectedness of things. She creates to enchant.

Visit her website here .

Demo: Outdoor Sketchbooks

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 16:08:03 GMT

Monday, 07 September, 2026, 19:00 – 21:00

Conservative Club, Long Street, Devizes SN10 1NW

Bring along your sketching equipment for a bit of en plein air.

ABOUT THE EVENT

Following our previous sketchbook sessions, the plan is to go one step further and take our sketchbooks outside (weather permitting), where we will be drawing in a familiar location in Devizes (location to be confirmed nearer the time). This session will include guidance on sketching, if needed.

Demo: Drawing a portrait with charcoal by Mick McNicholas

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 16:15:03 GMT

Monday, 05 October, 2026, 19:15 – 21:00

Conservative Club, Long Street, Devizes SN10 1NW

Largely self-taught, Mick is a portrait artist predominantly working in oils and charcoal. He has exhibited with the Royal Society of Portrait painters and at the Royal West of England Academy. Mick will be demonstrating how to draw a portrait with charcoal.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Mick McNicholas is an artist living and working in Wokingham, UK. Following a successful career as a digital artist, Mick’s practice led him to develop his skills in drawing originally to enhance how he made digital works, but as he progressed, he rediscovered his passion for producing physical works of Art that actually exist in the world. He has pursued the path of a representational artist, working across media and primarily from life, ever since.

Despite studying Art & Design Foundation in his youth and holding an MA in Digital Media, Mick is largely self-taught in representational art. However, he has taken classes and attended workshops with internationally renowned artists, such as Hollis Dunlap and Nicolás Uribe. He now regularly organises workshops for other international artists, as an extension to his artistic practice.

Mick’s drawings and paintings have been exhibited in several prestigious shows (most notably at the Mall Galleries with the Royal Society of Portrait Painters and the Pastel Society, and in the ING Discerning Eye Exhibition), as well as various group exhibitions around the country, such as The New Light Art Prize Exhibition.

Visit his website here .

Demo: Stitching scenes from life by Harriet Riddell

Sun, 02 Nov 2025 16:26:18 GMT

Monday, 02 November, 2026, 19:15 – 21:00

Conservative Club, Long Street, Devizes SN10 1NW

Back to join us with a new demo, Harriet creates landscapes and portraits using her sewing machine. Her work is almost always created in situ, often using her pedal-powered sewing machine, which we may need a volunteer to operate.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Harriet Riddell travels with her sewing machine pitching up in unusual locations from the informal settlements of Nairobi to the tea fields of the Himalayas. Through free motion embroidery she captures her surrounding environment and the people she meets.

Adventure, interaction and finding a deeper connection with people are key elements to each piece of Harriet’s work. Behind every ‘stitch’ lies a narrative of people, place and culture. Finding ways to power a sewing machine in remote locations as been an ongoing theme.

She encourages her street audience to pedal a bicycle which generates electricity and powers the art. This increases the interaction between her, her subject and the art its self. Other times, batteries and solar panels are used to generate energy for her stitches.

InStitchYou started in 2012 at the University of Hertfordshire, Harriet created a body of work in local pubs, café’s and laundrettes (anywhere with a table, chair and plug) then after graduating, InStitchYou took to Greenwich market, festivals and art fair’s performing live Stitched Portraits, Stitching weddings and finding an intrepid spark with her sewing machine.

The pandemic gave her the idea of stitching portraits live over Zoom. This allowed her to “travel” and hear stories from new people and stitch portraits from her home. This was such a success, Harriet continues to take portrait commissions over Zoom today and posts the artwork to you.

Life has changed again for Harriet since the birth of her first child in 2022. Harriet is currently working part-time whilst learning the new and exciting juggling act of being both artist and mother.

Visit her website here .

Demo: AGM & LAS Painting Critique with David Cobley

Sat, 01 Nov 2025 16:46:11 GMT

Monday, 07 December, 2026, 19:00 – 21:00

Conservative Club, Long Street, Devizes SN10 1NW

Bring along your self-portraits for critiquing by David Cobley.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

For December, we’re going to try something new, with an opportunity for members to bring their artwork to show what they’ve been working on over the year and, if they would like, have a critique by David Cobley, Devizes-based portrait artist who demonstrated for us in 2025. We’d particularly encourage members to bring a self-portrait; hopefully inspired by our demonstrations this year in paint, charcoal or on a sewing machine!

Visit David Cobley's website here .

Demo: Painting a winter scene in acrylics by Nigel Downing

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 17:10:45 GMT

Monday, 05 January, 2026, 19:15 – 21:00

Conservative Club, Long Street, Devizes SN10 1NW

Nigel Downing’s work primarily begins with looking and drawing and everything builds from this starting point. Primarily a landscape painter living in Somerset, Nigel also paints sporting subjects and illustrative material. He will be painting a winter landscape in acrylics for us.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Born in Middlesbrough in 1964, Nigel Downing studied Art at Cleveland College of Art and Fine Art at Canterbury College of Art before completing an MFA at the University of Newcastle. He combined working as an exhibiting artist with part-time lecturing roles. He also completed a number of Artist-in-Residence posts before undertaking a PGCE in 1995. After two years as a lecturer at Southeast Essex College in Southend, he moved to the secondary sector, becoming Head of Art at Churchill Academy in Somerset. At the end of 2024, he retired from teaching after 30 years to focus on his own work and hosting workshops in the Southwest.

Nigel's work primarily begins with looking and drawing. Everything builds from this. starting point. For him drawing is an investigation, a method of recording an experience and expressing ideas and emotions. The subject matter, whether it be a woodland view, a coastal scene or the dynamic movement of a figure, helps suggest his approach and influences his choice of materials. At all times, he seeks to extend his visual vocabulary to communicate something about the world we live in.

Visit his website here .

Demo: Painting a portrait in oils by Stewart Beckett

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 14:27:53 GMT

Monday, 02 February, 2026, 19:15 – 21:00

Conservative Club, Long Street, Devizes SN10 1NW

Hampshire based Stewart has taken part in both Landscape and Portrait Artist of the Year and has recently been elected as an associate of the Royal Institute of Oil Painters. Stewart will be demonstrating how to paint a portrait in oils.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Stewart Beckett, a seasoned visual artist, stands at the intersection of tradition and contemporary expression, weaving a captivating narrative that transcends the transient allure of invention. In a world where the relentless pursuit of the new often overshadows the treasures of the past, he takes on the noble responsibility of preserving the profound wisdom that propels artistic evolution.

His vision extends beyond the canvas; it transcends the ebb and flow of art history. As a practitioner of the art of preservation, he recognizes the necessity of progress but not at the cost of forsaking the wealth of knowledge already acquired. In a world enamoured with the novel, Stewart Beckett's art becomes a bridge that connects the past, present, and future—a timeless voyage through the essence of artistic creation.

His work is an invitation to contemplate, appreciate, and participate in the continuity of artistic heritage. In a realm where trends may fade, his dedication to the enduring values of art serves as a beacon guiding us through the ever-shifting tides of creativity.

Visit his website here .

Demo: Painting a coastal scene in gouache by Kate Wrigglesworth

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 11:38:47 GMT

Monday, 02 March, 2026, 19:15 – 21:00

Conservative Club, Long Street, Devizes SN10 1NW

Kate Wrigglesworth is a freelance practising artist, designer and dancer based in Bewdley, Worcestershire. As well as working on commissions for paintings, she also works as an artist in residence, in schools and communities.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Kate is a freelance practising artist, designer and dancer based in Bewdley, Worcestershire. As well as working on commissions for paintings, she also works as an artist in residence, in schools and communities.

She works in a variety of media, including paint, textiles, collage, and three-dimensional sculpture, and regularly runs workshops and demonstrations for Arts groups and societies.

She uses colour and composition to express emotion and create atmosphere. The flow of line in her paintings is influenced by her love of dance, which adds poetry and inspiration to her work. Her degree was in theatre set and costume design, and this continues to influence her.

Over the years, she has developed an expressive form of painting, a poetic language with invented symbols and shapes developed from the environment in which she lives. The source of her work is based upon dreams, invented stories and created myths. Her work explores characters placed in different landscapes. These characters are fictional, figurative and abstract.

She exhibits her artwork nationally and locally, and my paintings, prints, cards, and designs are available for purchase directly or at any artist craft fairs or exhibitions she attends.

Visit her website here .

Demo: Painting a landscape in water mixable oils by Simon Bishop

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 14:40:28 GMT

Monday, 13 April, 2026, 19:15 – 21:00
Conservative Club, Long Street, Devizes SN10 1NW

A member of the Lawrence Society, Simon has developed a distinctive technique for using water-mixable oil paints, which he uses for both portrait and landscape paintings. Simon will be painting a landscape using water-mixable oil paint.

See more of Simon's paintings on Facebook .

Demo: Painting a landscape in watercolours by Ian McManus

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 14:51:21 GMT

Monday, 18 May, 2026, 19:15 – 21:00

Conservative Club, Long Street, Devizes SN10 1NW

Ian is a watercolour artist based in East Anglia and is joining us for a demonstration followed by a workshop (on 19th May). Ian is known for painting street scenes bustling with figures and the hubbub of everyday life, but equally for coastal and pastoral scenes.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Ian is a professional artist specialising in watercolour and full member of the IEA. His atmospheric paintings capture a moment in time from everyday life. Well known for painting street scenes bustling with figures and the hubbub of everyday life but equally for exploring many genres such as coastal, pastoral, figures in landscape or interior settings and more. He strives to catch the energy and essence of a location through lively application of paint using direct brushwork, without overlays of washes normally associated with watercolour painting; he believes this gives each finished painting transparency and freedom of expression.

Painting Plein Air where possible, he constantly seeks locations and subjects with an interesting narrative and focal point, chasing the effects of natural light and shade, very much as the impressionist painters who are a great inspiration to him.

He works continuously to develop and improve his artworks and enjoys sharing this with others through demos for art societies, tutoring and workshops both nationally and internationally. Gaining great satisfaction from helping students elevate their skills and create more satisfying pictures themselves; additionally inspiring others through his instructional DVDs published by Townhouse Publications. He believes that anyone who is passionate enough about painting and commits sufficient time to honing the craft with some guidance from a good tutor can learn to paint. It’s a continual learning experience, and very rewarding when it all comes together and you finish up with a painting you’re happy with.

Visit his website here .

Demo: Painting an animal portrait in acrylics by Jonathan Newey

Sun, 26 Oct 2025 15:05:54 GMT

Monday, 01 June, 2026, 19:15 – 21:00

Conservative Club, Long Street, Devizes SN10 1NW

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Jonathan Newey is an award-winning artist with over 25 years of experience in both drawing and painting. Born in Reading, England, he comes from a long line of artists. He has extensive experience in a wide range of mediums and subject matter, but specialises in drawings and paintings inspired by nature.

He has over 20 years' experience as a teacher and lecturer, having taught at local and national adult education colleges and in various countries around the world, including Greece, Cyprus, Spain, France and Italy.

Jonathan is a member of the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation and has been selected for their Wildlife Artist of the Year exhibition at the Mall Galleries in London for seven years. He has exhibited both nationally and internationally and has paintings in various collections both at home and abroad.

Visit his website here .

Demo: Painting a still life in oils by Catherine McVean

Sat, 25 Oct 2025 15:35:04 GMT

Monday, 06 July, 2026, 19:15 – 21:00

Conservative Club, Long Street, Devizes SN10 1NW

Based in Ascot, Catherine McVean is best known for her still life oil paintings, which she describes as quiet celebrations of everyday life. Catherine will be painting a still life composition, focusing on capturing reflections and highlights.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Catherine is a professional artist best known for her still life oil paintings which she describes as quiet celebrations of everyday life. Catherine chooses to pair seasonal items with objects from her home; either treasured pieces she has collected over time or objects chosen for their own beauty, shape and texture.

Close observation and accurate drawing is central to Catherine’s work. Alongside this is a fascination with colour; both the design and placement of colours in a composition and the study and mixing of colours on her palette. She loves to explore the interaction of colour; how different colours work together both in a painting and in life.

Catherine is primarily self taught but has taken a number of short courses at Heatherleys School of Fine Art, London Art College and Central St Martins. Since 2020, she has been Shortlisted for both the British Art Prize and the Women in Art Prize, and Longlisted for the Jackson’s Art Prize. Catherine regularly shows work in a number of galleries across the UK.

Catherine started her career as a strategy and business consultant working in London, Brussels and Oman. Over the past 10 years, she has lived in the UK, Oman and New Zealand, but moved back to the UK in 2020 and now paints full-time from her studio in Ascot. Catherine has been teaching drawing and painting classes to adults since 2019.

Visit her website here .