The Alresford Art Society has enlarged its trophy cabinet by creating three new awards in memory of much-loved former members.

The new trophies were presented at their September meeting to members who had won prizes at the annual exhibition.

The new trophy for the Best Acrylic painting, (won by Richard Cox of Old Alresford) was a classic Dartington vase chosen by the family in memory of Graham Marsden.  Graham had been chairman of the society for many years and had given years of dedicated service and support to members. He had stepped forward to tutor the society’s beginners’ classes in watercolour when they first began, and many had taken their first brush strokes under his watchful eye.

At the September meeting there was also a sale of art materials, including many items from Graham’s studio.  “It was one of the hardest things I have had to do,” said daughter Jane, “but at least I knew that Dad’s art things would find good homes where they would be used.  I couldn’t throw them away.”

Also on sale was a selection of original watercolours and prints by Zella Smith which had been donated to the Society and, along with the proceeds from the sale, £520 would be given to Winchester GoLD, a charity very dear to Zella’s heart.  She was also remembered in the creation of a beautiful glass trophy in her memory, which will be presented to the Best New Exhibitor, Virginia Ridley.

“Zella was a beautiful soul, as well as a beautiful watercolourist,” said President Sue Gentry. “She was always willing to show new painters techniques and encourage them in their artistic journey.”

The third and last trophy had been created in memory of Ann Wadman, a keen sculptor, artist and a past chairman of the Art Society.  This was a cast head of a choir boy, created by Ann, who had been a guide at Winchester Cathedral and loved the choral music tradition.  It was donated by Ann’s son Robert Wadman to Wessex Sculptors of which she had been a keen member, and they kindly donated it to the Art Society in her memory.  This new award for the Best 3D was presented to Jen Boardman.

 

PHOTO CAPTION:

Winners all: Clifford D’Souza - Best Floral painting, Richard Cox - Best Acrylic painting and also People’s Choice Winner, and Jen Boardman - Best 3D exhibitor.