 |
The first exhibition of the New English in 1886 immediately
established the NEAC as a strong voice. During the entire
20th Century, in spite of waves of movements that pulled
the art world in many directions, the club’s artists held to
their commitment to figurative art.
|
Head of Young Girl
Arthur Neal
|
|
Spring Morning,
Westminster Abbey
Bob Brown
|
|
NEAC News 2008
|
This year saw the end of Tom Coates’ five year presidency. In that time he forged links with Crossgate Gallery in Kentucky who have become great supporters in both sponsorship and bringing the new English to a wider audience in the United States. Tom’s eagerness to exhibit at every opportunity took member shows to Hereford, Devon, East Anglia, Cheltenham as well as the London venues of the Mall and Bankside. His presidency saw the development of the web site and expansion of the friends. Tom’s time as president however was marked most strikingly by his wonderful gregarious nature, his endless generosity and of course his stunning paintings. We thank Tom and Mary for their immense effort and dedication over the last 5 years. Both Tom and Mary plan to continue with their strong commitment with the club as they always have: Mary organising the Critics’ Lunch and her involvement with the friends and Tom taking over as president of the friends from Ken Howard.
The new president Jason Bowyer was elected at the AGM unanimously by the membership. The club has every confidence in Jason and we are optimistic that his enthusiasm and energy will further strengthen the club’s position as a leading light in contemporary figurative painting. |
|
|
 |
This year’s AGM also saw the election of three new members:
We welcome them aboard and look forward to their future participation to further enrich the club.
|
|
This year The Annual Open Exhibition featured work of John Ward CBE RA NEAC who sadly died in 2007.
A member of the highest regard, his paintings meticulously composed and underpinned by intense drawing had a clarity and beauty that elevated his subjects. He had a love of both human and architectural form and is fondly remembered by colleagues in his statement “Aren’t we so lucky to be making a living out of doing something we love”. . |
|
|
| In the face of the poor economic climate, the open exhibition bucked the trend selling in excess of £110,000 thanks to the quality of work and the New English’s ever increasing popularity. The talks and events were well attended and we would like to thank the support the New English has had from both its friends, the general public and those at the Mall Galleries who work so hard to put on such an important exhibition each year.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
|
