History of the Cookham Arts Club

Formation and Early Beginnings

The Cookham and Cookham Dean Arts Club, later renamed the Cookham Arts Club, was founded in 1941 during World War II. Its inception coincided with a time when many artists fled the bombing in London, seeking refuge in Cookham and its surrounding areas. Some of these artists were friends of Stanley Spencer, a notable local figure. Although Spencer was not a member, he frequently exhibited with the club.

A copy of a letter dated 6th May 1941 (referenced overleaf) highlights the club’s formation. Addressed to Mrs. Shepard, the wife of a local doctor, the letter invited her to join the newly established club. The entrance fee for founding members was two shillings and six pence. The letter vividly reflects the anxiety and turmoil of wartime England while outlining the club’s intent to embrace various branches of the arts, including ballet, music, literature, and painting.

Aspirations and Early Activities

From the outset, the club aimed to be a “refreshment and stimulant for tired minds”, encouraging both amateur and professional artists. This vision remains relevant today as the club continues to support beginners while engaging skilled artists.

Early Exhibitions and Events

Exhibitions began immediately, with most held at Pinder Hall and occasionally at the church hall. In the 1950s, exhibition catalogues were priced at sixpence (6d), rising to one shilling (1/-) by 1966. Membership fees in that era were £1.

During the 1970s, the club introduced outdoor Sunday painting sessions to encourage beginners, culminating in a small winter exhibition of their works. This tradition continues, with some members still painting ‘en plein air’ during summer Sundays, often concluding with tea and cake.

The club also organized pantomimes, plays, ballets, poetry readings, and musical evenings. Early exhibition previews featured soirées, complete with music, wine, and official openings. Artworks were typically priced in guineas.

Notable Artists

Frank Sherwin R.I.

– A resident of Cookham High Street and accomplished watercolourist.
– Best known for creating iconic railway posters.
– During World War II, served as an adviser on airfield camouflage.
– Regularly exhibited with the club until the 1970s and served on the selection panel.
– Passed away in 1986, with his works viewable on various websites and in publications like Leisure Painter.

Henry Trivick R.B.A.

– A painter and lithographer, friend of Stanley Spencer, and his lithography instructor.
– Lived in Bourne End and painted abstracts, landscapes, and architectural subjects.
– His works can be found in the British Museum and other collections.

Daphne Charlton

– Married to artist George Charlton, both of whom taught at the Slade School of Art.
– A former lover of Stanley Spencer, appearing in several of his works.
– Her self-portrait and Spencer’s portraits of her can be found online and at the Stanley Spencer Gallery.

Ralph Thompson S.W.L.A.

– A distinguished animal artist and illustrator of Gerald Durrell’s books.
– Frequently appeared on BBC television and was a Cookham Dean resident.
– Examples of his works are available online.

Robert Duckworth Greenham

– Trained at the R.A. School of Art.
– Known for painting local river scenes and portraits of film stars, some of which are displayed in London’s Portrait Gallery.

Other Artists and Contributions

Several locally and nationally recognized artists have been associated with the club, including:

• Juliette Palmer R.B.A.
• Jack Widgery
• Chris Tyrrell
• Denis Pannett R.S.M.A., a member of the Wapping Group
• Derek Eastoe
• Tim Mallett
• Giulio Bagnoli

Notable sculptresses include:

• Reca McGibbon, known for her sculptures of Stanley Spencer and contributions to Animaland Animations.
• Lydia Karpinska, renowned for public sculptures such as “The Boy and the Boat” in Maidenhead and the Nicholas Winton Memorial at Maidenhead Station.

The club also showcased pottery from Odney Pottery, led by John Bew in the 1940s and 1950s. These pieces were sold in John Lewis stores, and some are displayed at the Maidenhead Heritage Centre.

Modern-Day Focus

Over time, the Cookham Arts Club has streamlined its activities, focusing primarily on painting. However, exhibitions still include sculptures, pottery, wood carving, and glasswork.

A Legacy Remembered

At the club’s 80th exhibition (marking its 81st year), an elderly attendee, David Ricardo, shared a special connection to its history. He recalled attending the first exhibition as a child and mentioned that Daphne Charlton had painted his portrait.