Our 2026 Annual Art Exhibition

Our 30th Annual Art Exhibition took place over the weekend of 9-10th May 2026 and proved another great success. With 219 paintings being exhibited along with numerous unframed artwork and, for the first time, cards on sale, this necessitated a great deal of behind-the-scenes in the run-up to the weekend. Everyone involved did a brilliant job on handing-day to ensure everything was ready on time.

The weekend began with a private Preview Evening for members and officially invited guests only, who enjoyed a glass or two of wine and a few nibbles in an enjoyable convivial atmosphere full of conversation and laughter. We were also delighted two representatives of our chosen charity – the Renal Unit at Southmead Hospital, Bristol – were able to join us for this special evening.

Over the course of the weekend, although visitor numbers were down on previous years, many paintings were sold, and the card table, groaning with numerous display stands, proved popular, as did our refreshment table. Along with the raffle for paintings donated by professional artists demonstrating or hold workshops with us over the course of the past year, two further artworks were up for bidding, resulting in two last minute bids, the result of which left three of our members going home more than happy.

Along with donations, a percentage from painting and card sales, entry fees, raffle and refreshments sales, the group is delighted to have raised almost £1,000 for our charity. Donations are still being accepted for this and a final cheque will be presented to the unit in July. There is still time to donate to this worthwhile charity, so please help us make this a donation to remember by contributing either at the group on a Friday at art sessions, or by using the link:

http://southmeadhospitalcharity.enthuse.com/

By putting Frome Valley Art Exhibition in the comments box your contribution will get added to our donation and will go directly to the renal unit. We will close this off third week of June as the charity is merging and funds will just go to the general hospital charity but of course donations can be made at any time. Thank you so much from all of us.