The Lee Old Church TrustBy Trish Swain
On Sunday 8th October the Old Church was packed out to listen to Henry Wemyss of Sotheby’s talk about William Callow, 1812-1908. After an early career in France Callow left as the French political situation was deteriorating (he was closely identified with King Louis Philippe I). Needing to move out of London for his wife’s health in 1855, Callow discovered an old cottage in Potter Row, which he subsequently demolished and rebuilt. His wife also set up a school nearby.
Callow was a member of the ‘Society of Painters in Watercolours’ for 70 years and at the time of his death he was the oldest professional artist in Britain.
Mr Wemyss placed Callow in the context of water colourists of his time, including Richard Parkes Bonnington (whom he never met, but who influenced him greatly) and Turner, whom he met in Venice. Callow was famed for his landscapes, but his paintings of buildings are much admired.
Many ‘locals’ brought along their paintings and it was a treat to share them, if only for an evening.
The quiz evening on 13th October was a great success (thanks question masters); well done to the Kelly table of Ballinger who pipped the Swan Bottom table by 2 points to win. Over £800 was raised and thanks to all, especially those who nobly taped the England rugby match and supported The Old Church instead.
Our next meeting will be on Saturday 8th December at 2 pm: carols and readings followed by coffee and mince pies. All are welcome!