Leicester Society of Artists

In 1880 a group of friends met in Leicester to discuss Fine Art. Towards the end of that year they brought in their own sketches for discussion, and the Leicester Society of Artists formally came into being at a meeting on 25th July 1881. The original Society comprised just 16 members who met in rented rooms with borrowed furniture. The first Honorary Secretary was heraldic designer and painter Thomas Charles Barfield (1858-1942) who continued in his role until 1922 and the last surviving member of the original group, Mr Henry Walter Bates hosiery manufacturer and amateur artist died in 1948. The first exhibition of was held in 1882 and since 1897 annual exhibitions have regularly been held at New Walk Museum & Art Gallery in the city where they continue to be held to this day.

Early members include George Moore Henton (1861-1924), artist and photographer and Wilmot Pilsbury who was the first Headmaster of Leicester School of Art and President of the Society in 1888. More recently George Pickard (1929-1993) architect and sculptor and Bryan Organ (b. 1935), Royal portrait painter were members. Organ acted as President from 1982-1986. The sole aim of the Society is the promotion and encouragement of art and artists in Leicestershire and Rutland. Anyone living working or studying in Leicestershire or Rutland or with a strong connection to this area can apply for membership. Members cover many perspectives on art and are all practising visual artists.

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