I have been retired for twelve years having taken early retirement from a career that spanned a number of disciplines from seafarer, engineer and marketing executive.  Retirement opened up whole new opportunities in academic study and service in the voluntary sector.   Five years ago a beginner’s course in drawing and painting at Perth College was the first tentative step into a whole new world.  It is truly amazing the great wealth of artistic talent both professional and amateur almost at every turn.  For a beginner this can be dispiriting but it is also hugely inspirational.  For encouragement and practical advice I have found The Perthshire Art Association an excellent and valuable organisation.  Hence my interest in doing all I can to further the efforts of the PAA in encouraging the visual arts in Perthshire.

I am delighted to say that undertaking this role is not as onerous as it might seem.  For one thing the efforts of immediate past Presidents have left the organisation in good heart and financially viable.  The only concern I do have is that I have to step up to the mark left by our previous president Allan Perera-Liyanage.  Allan has done an excellent job and his drive and enthusiasm has carried the PAA to be held in high esteem throughout Perth and Kinross and beyond.  Obviously I would like to thank Allan and the previous Committee on behalf of us all for all they have done.  I am also very thankful to and enormously impressed by the way that the new Committee have risen to the task and already have the programme for the coming year well in hand.

There are two aims that I would like to address in my term as President.  The first is to look at how we can increase our membership and of younger people in particular.  An increased membership will of course raise issues of capacity on workshops and classes but these are problems that can be addressed.  It is more important for the long-term sustainability of a dynamic organisation that it continues to attract new members.  The second aim is to address our charitable objectives of fostering an interest in the visual arts particularly amongst the young.  These then are the challenges I would like us to address and I hope I have your support in doing so.

Edward Link

14/5/13

Adverse weather conditions on the Saturday took their toll on the Riverside Stalls, however, visitors turned up in considerable numbers to enjoy the varied selection of PAA exhibits in the Mission Hall.

Gillian Booth gave a “live” painting demonstration on both days within the foyer. The demonstration was fascinating and drew a lot of interest from the visitors.

Grateful thanks to PAA members who volunteered their services manning the desks and helping with the set up. Thanks also to the dedicated committee members who put so much effort in to make the weekend a success.

Finally, thanks to the St Mathew’s Church team for their help with furniture and administration, not forgetting the splendid cafeteria group and their fantastic selection of cakes! 

MEET YOUR FRIENDS

AT

A SOCIAL EVENING

AT

PITCAIRNGREEN INN

FRIDAY 21ST JUNE

7pm FOR 7.30pm

2 COURSE MEAL WITH MUSIC

£10

Tickets available from Pauline Duff

01738  583434

or e-mail

duff.i@sky.com