As we have come to the end of another enjoyable Annual Exhibition, based on the repeated comments of how well it was organised and displayed and how high the standard of work was this year, I think we can safely say it has been a real success.
Some of the comments in the visitor’s book say it all:
“Wonderful exhibition, we will be back next year”.
“Excellent exhibition – best one yet!”
“Improves every year, splendid!”
“A really interesting mix of media, meaning that there was something for everyone and it stimulated much discussion”.
“Great talent on show thanks to the organisers!”
“I’ve seen a few exhibitions recently. This by far is the best, it’s fantastic!”
“Thank you! Wonderful selection and so uplifting.”
“What a great exhibition – lovely feel and a peaceful space to view such talent”.
“Probably the best exhibition I have seen by far in a very long time, excellent. Fabulous
Work”

This year we were honoured to have two guest artists exhibiting with us; Anthony Connolly PRP and David Brayne Hon.RWS. Anthony is President of the Royal Society of Portrait painters and one of our Patrons and David who was one of our judges last year is an honorary member of the Royal Watercolour Society.
Thank you to our External Judges Richard Pikesley PPNEAC RWS and John Walsom ROI.
A very big thank you to all our sponsors, who generously provide the prize money for the awards.
Thank you to the headmaster of Kings School for letting us use the beautiful Memorial Hall again and last but certainly not least, thank you to all our volunteer members who helped with hanging, stewarding and sorting. Their contribution to the success of the Exhibition is unquestionable and we would struggle without them.
Well done to all our artists who took part and a special thank you to our Secretary Jean Stevens who took over as curator at unbelievably short notice, when this particular curator fell ill.

Sally Ridout – BAS Exhibition Secretary ( curator ) 2025