Fordingbridge Art Club
The Fordingbridge Art Club began in 1946, started by a circle of artists that included Augustus John OM RA and his partner Dorelia McNeil. John had settled in the town almost two decades earlier, in 1927, turning his home at Fryern Court into a gathering spot for creative figures passing through. His portraits captured notable personalities such as Lawrence of Arabia, Dylan Thomas, W B Yeats, Thomas Hardy, and the Marchesa Casati.
The couple contributed the Augustus John trophy, which remains part of the club’s heritage. A bronze statue of John, sculpted by Ivor Roberts-Jones in the 1960s, overlooks the River Avon on the east bank, marking his connection to the place.
Today, the club draws in painters, sketchers, and makers from across skill levels, creating an environment where beginners can experiment alongside seasoned creators.
Members gather at the Avonway Annexe for a mix of hands-on sessions that encourage growth and connection. These include demonstrations by professional artists showing techniques in watercolours, acrylics, or mixed media, as well as workshops exploring lino printing, colour theory, or cityscape composition.
Informal paint-together evenings allow for casual chatting while working on personal projects, and life drawing classes provide structured practice.
Regular outings take advantage of the surrounding countryside, with groups sketching landscapes or seascapes in natural light. The club also hosts talks on topics like the anatomy of painting, and fused glass sessions add variety to the lineup. An online gallery displays members’ works, spanning oils, pastels, pencil drawings, and more, giving a sense of the diverse output.
Annual exhibitions open to the public feature original pieces, prints, and cards for sale, often with visitor voting for favourites.
Joining involves completing an application form and paying an annual fee via bank transfer, with adjustments for those starting mid-year. The process is straightforward, open to anyone keen on art, regardless of experience.
Beyond the regular meetings, the club collaborates with local schools, supporting student displays and fostering early interest in creative pursuits. Social elements weave through the calendar, with end-of-year gatherings focused on shared learning, like hands-on colour workshops.
The club rates highly in local media mentions, with praise for its inclusive setup that brings together varied talents and for events that deliver engaging, skill-building experiences based on participant feedback.