The Melbourne Society of Women Painters & Sculptors (MSWPS) began in 1902 when a small group of former students from the National Gallery School Melbourne resolved to form a club of art students 'for the purpose of securing mutual help and sympathy in their work and keeping up the old friendships, which had been so pleasant to each and all in the past'. According to Juliet Peers, author of More Than Just Gumtrees, a history of the Society, this quote appeared in a publication of the Victorian Artists Society (VAS) in 1908. It has been a long and friendly association between the societies. This year, Changing Perspectives, MSWPS 114th Annual Exhibition will once again be held in the gracious Galleries of the VAS.

There are many talented women artists who appreciate the opportunity to exhibit their artworks under the MSWPS umbrella. Not only are the exhibits on sale, but opportunities to reinforce recognition and gain sales are also available through the website or Instagram. It is worth reading the member profiles on the website as their stories and achievements show that purchasing from the exhibition is an excellent investment opportunity.

Two of our members will demonstrate their talents during the exhibition; On Thursday 5 October Louise Foletta will show her unconventional water colour technique while on Saturday 7 October, Maxine Wade will demonstrate watercolour painting. Both demonstrations are at 1:30 pm. All welcome.

An impressive variety of works in many different mediums will be on show. Sculpture in glass, bronze, ceramic and timber will grace the galleries alongside nearly 100 exceptional artworks in watercolour, prints, pastels, acrylics, oils or collage.

MSWPS members have the opportunity to enjoy the company of artists who share their passion for creativity at Member’s meetings once a month. It may be a train journey to a regional gallery, a charter bus tour, painting en plein air in a lovely garden or an entertaining talk by one of our illustrious artists via zoom or at the Ola Cohn House. These are popular events at which friendships are readily formed.

Through indulging their artistic passion, members of the Society follow in the footsteps of the trail blazing women who founded MSWPS and succeeded in raising the profile of Melbourne’s women artists.

Banner Image: Lion Dance, Lunar New Year, by Sue Jarvis.