Wycombe artists on display

10:49am Monday 18th August 2008

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LOCAL artists from West Wycombe Art Group are putting the finishing touches to their pieces before their annual exhibition arrives next weekend. Taking place at West Wycombe Village Hall, the exhibition will include works by more than 30 group members, including former tutor and renowned artist Dennis Syrett.

Many others have also exhibited at major venues, including The Mall Galleries in London as well as the Royal Society of British Artists and the Royal Institute.

"The group gives so much support and they are all an excellent calibre of artist, so it really encourages you to keep your standard up."

Featured artist Pauline James

This year's featured artist is Pauline James, who lives in Downley and has been a member of the group for the past three years.

Pauline says art has always been a passion in her life, but it was only when she retired four years ago that she was really able to focus on her long-held interest.

She regularly works in vibrant watercolours, acrylics and pastels, explains: "I always loved art, but my parents always put pressure on me to get a sensible' job, which I did.

"It was only later on, when I ended up working as an admin manager for an art studio, that I was brought back into that environment and I wanted to take it up seriously again."

Pauline later joined the West Wycombe Art Group, which she says has helped her talents progress immensely. "It really means a lot to me to be able to do this," she says. "The group gives so much support and they are all an excellent calibre of artist, so it really encourages you to keep your standard up."

West Wycombe Art Group holds its annual exhibition from Friday, August 22 to Tuesday, August 26 at West Wycombe Village Hall. Open Friday and Monday, 10am to 6pm; Saturday and Sunday, 10am to 7pm; and Tuesday, 10am to 6pm.