Around the time of the end of the Second World War, people were able to turn their minds to enjoyable interests and passions.
In St Mawes, it was to be art.
Soon, St Mawes Art Group was formed, and we were lucky enough to have Charles Pears—a war artist of some repute—as our founding member.
He was joined by another war artist, Mollie Forestier-Walker, best known for her portrait of Wing Commander Guy Gibson.
John Clifford then became the third founding member, bringing his landscape skills to the party.
Like the rest of the country, the people of St Mawes slowly came to terms with the losses of war and continuing rationing.
Yet, there was a talented group of people living there who began to work together to produce art.
For 80 years, artists have come and gone.
They have always been attracted to the fishing harbour, people, beaches, wonderful coastline, and, of course, the ever-changing sea and light.
The joy of Cornwall and the love of the Roseland have always been a magnet for art lovers.
Eighty years have not diminished the enthusiasm we all have for painting.
Certainly, styles have changed, as have materials and fashions.
You won’t find so many dark oils and gold frames now.
The subject matter is still broadly the same, however, with the addition of inspiration from the wider Roseland and, dare I say, some abstract art.
I wonder what Charles Pears would have thought of us celebrating the preview of the 2025 Summer Exhibition at lunchtime with fizz, cake, and live music.
I must also point out that the current chairman, who came up with this idea, is a direct descendant of one of the first members!
The St Mawes Art Group preview event will be on Friday, August 1st, 12:30–2:30 pm, with proceeds supporting our charity partner, Children’s Hospice South West.
The main exhibition will then run daily from Saturday, August 2, until August 17, with free entry from 10am to 4:30pm.
I know that Charles Pears would have been so proud of us because it’s going to be a wonderful exhibition to celebrate our 80th anniversary.
