President’s Report September
Hello members,
There has been much anticipation about MSWPS's participation in the Affordable Art Fair, and I'm delighted to share some highlights.
For those of us involved, it was an exciting and rewarding experience. A special moment was celebrating Steffie's 80th birthday at the fair. The organisers surprised her with a public announcement and a beautiful birthday cake, while family, friends and fellow artists gathered to celebrate the occasion.
The results were extremely encouraging. Between the four exhibiting artists, thirty-five artworks were sold, with the very first sale on opening day being the largest and highest-priced work exhibited by our group. Over the four-day event, more than 22,000 visitors attended the fair. Many visitors to our stand accepted invitations to our Annual Exhibition, and there was considerable interest in joining MSWPS. Membership enquiries began flowing in within days of the event.
We were also pleased to receive coverage in Inner City News, where Sean Car encouraged readers to visit our stand. Inner City News
A more detailed review of our experience at the Affordable Art Fair will be published on the MSWPS website for members.
Your committee continues to expand the opportunities available to members. Our Open House session on 12 August welcomed another enthusiastic group, and the final session for 2026 will be held on Tuesday, 22 September. Everyone is welcome.
It was also wonderful to see one of our members initiate a train trip to the Geelong Gallery. Supported by MSWPS, several members travelled together from Southern Cross Station to enjoy the exhibition and each other's company.
We encourage members to continue suggesting activities and events that can be supported by the Society. Your ideas help strengthen our community and create opportunities for members to connect.
By the time you read this report, entries for our Annual Exhibition will have closed, and the catalogue will be well underway. We are seeking volunteers to assist on Tuesday, 6 October (Delivery Day) and at the Opening on Saturday, 10 October. If you can help, please contact us at info@mswps.com.au. We especially encourage our newer Full and Associate Members to volunteer, as it is an excellent opportunity to gain firsthand experience in presenting and coordinating an exhibition.
I look forward to catching up with many of you during the Annual Exhibition—whether on Delivery Day, at the Opening, at Dina Goebel's demonstration on 14 October, or Steph Wallace's demonstration on 17 October.
Happy Painting and Happy Birthday to September born members.
Image: Giant Kelp by Dina Goebel