We propose to establish two new groups with a view to starting them by September. Success will, of course, be entirely dependent on your support. The potential new groups will be Watercolour Painting and Birdwatching.
The objectives of the Watercolour Painting group will be to learn the basic techniques and good practice and to put these into effect.
A watercolour of foxgloves by Painting for Pleasure group leader Elaine Major
Progress will not be possible until a group leader is identified, a member who is willing to act as the first point of contact and contribute to the running of the group. We would anticipate that support will be available from other group members and that tasks can be shared. The group leader will not have to be an experienced watercolourist, although some knowledge will clearly be useful.
It will, however, be important to find a member who is able to offer some basic instruction and help. It will be highly desirable to do this before the group is able to function effectively. Participants will also need to acquire essential equipment and materials, especially when painting ‘en plein air’. Any indoor sessions may well involve hiring sufficient space, with the consequential costs.
These are significant issues to be considered, but we trust that any problems will not be insurmountable. We propose to call a meeting to establish the extent of members’ interest and to discuss the above issues and any others of relevance. Details are given below.
The second potential group will be Birdwatching with the aim of learning together to identify local birdlife (and other wildlife whenever possible) and to enjoy watching birds in our local area. We anticipate that the group will visit nearby reserves and places of interest and will meet indoors in the event of inclement weather. The group will have to decide the frequency, location and length of the sessions but it would seem appropriate to begin with half-day walks, which will also provide some beneficial exercise.
Binoculars and a simple identification book are all you need to start to enjoy birdwatching
Once again it will be important to identify a group leader as the main point of contact. Knowledge of local birds will be useful but probably not essential. The main task will be to organise and reconnoitre the walks and to decide whether indoor sessions would be desirable. This will not have to be done by the group leader alone but should be shared with other participants.
Members of the group will need binoculars (if possible) and a simple bird identification book. Transport to walks may well be needed but there should be plenty of opportunities for sharing. Any costs should be minor once equipment has been acquired.
Interested?
We invite interested members to meet us at the Lincoln Arms hotel in Station Approach, Dorking. We shall discuss the proposed Watercolour Painting group from 10.30am and Birdwatching from 11.30am. The date of the meeting will be Thursday 14 July.
We do need a good turnout to make any progress so it will be important for you to confirm by email or telephone your interest in one – or both – groups and whether you will attend the meeting(s).
• Please contact one of the groups co-ordinators, Lionel Cartlidge (01306 898491, email ljcartlidge@lineone.net) or Geoff Saunders (01306 887493), to register your interest.