About the Society

The Colchester Art Society was formed in 1946 for the promotion of the visual arts by a group of artists based in the Colchester School of Art. Amongst the earliest members were John Nash, Cedric Morris, Arthur Lett-Haines, Henry Collins and Roderic Barrett. The Society has maintained a lively programme of exhibitions and other activities for over 70 years.

Membership is open to all who practice or have an enthusiasm for the visual arts, and we currently have almost 300 members.

The Society organises two major exhibitions each year in Colchester, one in the summer and one in the winter. These exhibitions are open to submissions from members and non-members but are subject to selection by a panel elected by the members. Additional exhibitions are organised from time to time.

Other activities include Spring and Autumn lectures delivered by prominent professional artists, organised visits to a variety of venues of art interest, and informal social gatherings.

A newsletter is published every four months. Members are kept informed of our activities via the newsletter, email circulars and our social media accounts.