Ystradyfodwg Art Society  

This is a thriving society, meeting every Monday at the Abergorki Hall, Treorchy, with workshops, demonstrations and competitions. The annual exhibition has become a social event, a far cry from the early days when it first began.

In 1969 a group of enthusiastic painters, under the tuition of Mr. David Rees, had finished a course at Treorchy Comprehensive School and decided they would like to stay together and form a society. They drew up a constitution, the most important item being to encourage appreciation and participation in Art.

Mr. Rees was the first president, Mr. Islwyn Price became secretary, Mr. Fred Watkis chairman and Miss Barbara Hickerton treasurer. Islwyn and his wife Edith became the driving force in what soon became a very close group of friends.

The only medium then used was oil until Mr. Joe Brooks joined the group. He was a great advocate of water colour and encouraged everyone to attempt this difficult medium. The problem was to find a suitable venue, where they could not only discuss Art but practise it.

It was a great satisfaction to find a base at Abergorki Hall. A lot of work needed to be done but everyone helped in a spirit of camaraderie.

Sadly Islwyn died within a few years leaving a tremendous gap in the society. His place was taken by Miss Evelyn Dutfield, Doreen Neely taking the chair. The society grew in size and quality as more people were encouraged to attempt painting.

At this time Mr. Bill Wheeler joined, an excellent artist who soon made his mark on the society. Under his guidance the standard of work improved. He organised painting holidays and other activities. Now a professional artist he has inspired so many of us.

On Christmas Day 1989 Evelyn died after a long illness. Urgent steps had to be taken and Doreen Neely moved into her place as secretary, Bill Wheeler taking the chair. Annual exhibitions continued to improve along with the ever increasing interest of the public. As recognition of our efforts our Council included us in “Special Annual Events”.

Barbara, after many years as treasurer relinquished her post to Dennis Stallard.

In 1997 Bill and Doreen retired, the office of secretary was filled by Mrs. Liz Jenkins with Christine Morgan as chairlady both of whom did excellent work. On Chris’s retirement she was replaced by Mr Des Jones who, with Liz continued to improve the society until they recently decided to retire.

The future now lies in the capable hands of the new chairman Mr. David Price and Mr. Derek Evans, secretary.

Long may they continue to uphold the aims laid down thirty years ago, to open people’s eyes to the beauty in which we live and try to conserve it.