A MILESTONE was celebrated by one of the earliest branches of the National Association of Decorative and Fine Art Societies last month.
Haslemere Decorative and Fine Arts Society (HDFAS), which was formed with 30 members in 1971, celebrated not only its 45th anniversary at its annual general meeting but also a greatly increased membership of 245.
Outgoing chairman Sarah Barnes welcomed new chairman Alison Marston, who has been a member of HDFAS for eight years and a committee member for seven years.
She said: “NADFAS has 92,000 members, with 370 Societies in the UK, Europe and New Zealand, and a sister Society in Australia.
“It is a tremendously popular and well-known organisation having been founded in 1968.
“My membership of HDFAS extends over 30 years during which time I have been a committee member for nine years, the last three years as chairman.
“I love NADFAS which takes the arts to all walks of life and age groups including children and young people.
“I will continue to be a member to enjoy the many benefits, excellent art related lectures, visits to London exhibitions, places of historical and artistic interest and study days.
The AGM was followed by an enjoyable and informative talk by NADFAS lecturer Gail Turner on Spanish artist Joaquin Sorolla (1863-1923), who was a phenomenal success in his lifetime.
• Visitors and new members are welcomed at HDFAS lectures. For more details visit www.haslemeredfas. co.uk