“This art society does a valuable job in promoting the arts in the Rugby area” Roger Simmonds - former Marketing Officer Rugby Art Gallery & Museum, Rugby Borough Council

Images courtesy of http://freerangestock.com

Copyright © 2012 - Rugby & District Art Soc.

Precise details are scarce, but it is known that the idea for an Art Society in Rugby was mooted by a group of artist friends in 1935, although the formation of the actual Society did not take place until the following year. The first exhibition organised by the Society itself, held in the Public Library was opened by Captain Talbot Kelly RI., who was Art Master at Rugby School.
 

The earliest catalogue in our files is for the 3rd Annual exhibition held in May - June 1940 when 109 pieces were on display, including Oils, Watercolours, Drawings and examples of Etching, Wood Engraving, Applique and Weaving. Activities were curtailed for some time during the war period but by 1945 membership cards were again being issued. During this time meetings were held on Saturday evenings at Rugby Library. When this became unavailable they moved to Rugby School, and continued to meet there until 2004.

The Society has had a number of distinguished artists in the role of Vice President including the painter L. S. Lowry and The Bishop of Coventry The Right Reverend C.N.K. Bardsley, during the 70s. John Lines, the local painter with an international reputation, is our currrent Vice President.