The Friends of St. Matthias Annual Art Fair 2012 was a fantastic celebration of local artistry, bringing together 54 talented artists and over 200 exhibits, including paintings, ceramics, sculptures, and jewelry. The event successfully raised funds for the conservation of St. Matthias Church, while offering visitors a weekend filled with creativity and community spirit.
Event Highlights
🎨 A Showcase of Local Art
Visitors enjoyed an incredible variety of artwork, with many finding unique pieces to take home. The diverse collection highlighted the exceptional talent within the community.
🎟 Auction Night – Friday, November 9th
One of the most anticipated moments of the fair was the auction, featuring a remarkable piece by Dame Elizabeth Blackadder, DBE, RA, RSA. Her 1982 lithograph, Still Life with Indian Toy, captured attention for its innovative perspective on still life.
🛍 Artwork Sales & Support
Attendees had the opportunity to purchase artwork, with all sales contributing to the fundraising effort. Payments were accepted in cash or by cheque, and the support from the community was overwhelming.
🏆 People’s Choice Award
Visitors cast their votes for their favorite exhibit, continuing a beloved tradition of celebrating artistic excellence. The artist with the most votes was awarded a bottle of wine, a small but meaningful recognition of their work.
🎟 Raffle & Community Engagement
The raffle, with tickets priced at just £1, was a great success, further adding to the event’s fundraising efforts.
A Grateful Acknowledgment
The success of the 2012 Art Fair was made possible by the dedication of artists, volunteers, and supporters. Special thanks to John Hannah for opening the fair, Richmond Hill Bakery for donating food for the private view, and Robert Sholl for providing music.
🙏 A Heartfelt Thanks to Our Community
The Friends of St. Matthias extend their gratitude to all who participated, attended, and contributed to the event. Your support helped raise essential funds for the preservation of St. Matthias Church, ensuring that both the building and the community it serves continue to thrive.
🎨 Until Next Time!
With such a successful event in 2012, we look forward to continuing this tradition in the years to come. Thank you for being part of this memorable weekend!