Cookham Arts Club exhibition marks 83rd year with vibrant return

The Cookham Arts Club Exhibition is making a colourful return for its 83rd year – showcasing a wide range of work from both budding and professional artists.

Running daily at Pinder Hall from 10am to 4.45pm until Sunday, August 24, it features more than 300 paintings and more than 60 craft pieces, including ceramics, glassware, stained glass and embroidery.

In total, 78 people are taking part – including some professionals who have been exhibiting there for a long time, right alongside those with less experience.

Organiser Wendy Mercer said the idea is to be fully inclusive.

A selection panel helps ‘enhance the display’ while the event encourages artists of all ages and skill levels.

“We encourage the idea [that] everybody can paint and everybody can exhibit,” said Wendy.

Visitors will have the chance to view and buy affordable art without those steep gallery mark-ups.

Only a small amount of money comes back to the club to cover costs – the focus is on supporting artists rather than making a profit.

The exhibition is run by volunteers, with more than 30 people helping to set it up over the weekend.