History of the Society
The Ilford Art Club was founded by Samual Hancock on 29th April 1925, although Ilford didn't in fact become an independent borough and receive its charter until 1928. Meetings were held regularly until the outbreak of the Second World War in 1939, when all the Club's activities were put on hold. In 1946 meetings resumed, and Membership increased. This Club's growth was largely due to the efforts of Miss Bertha Olyett, who held the office of Honorary Secretary for twenty years.
A professional artist by the name of John Wheeler, became the Club's first regular tutor in 1947, to be followed by Ian Ferguson. In 1948, the Club's name was changed to The Ilford Art Society, reflecting its developing stature.
The current Membership of the Society is a mixture of ages and backgrounds, and new members are always welcome. For further details about Membership and activities, you can contact the Society Secretary on 020 8478 4841.
A professional artist by the name of John Wheeler, became the Club's first regular tutor in 1947, to be followed by Ian Ferguson. In 1948, the Club's name was changed to The Ilford Art Society, reflecting its developing stature.
The current Membership of the Society is a mixture of ages and backgrounds, and new members are always welcome. For further details about Membership and activities, you can contact the Society Secretary on 020 8478 4841.
Valentines Park 1949
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Ilford High Road, 1948
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The Society held its first open air exhibition in Valentines Park in 1954. These exhibitions were held in the park every year until 1996. Our open air exhibitions are now held twice a year in Wanstead High Street, on the railings opposite Somerfield. Members' works have been exhibited at the R.A., R.O.I., R.S.W., The Paris Salon, Mall Galleries, London City Airport, and many galleries throughout East Anglia. Our current Tutor is Mark Charalambou.