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On the South Downs Way
On Mount Caburn
View over Lewes from near the Castle
South Downs from Mount CaburnPaddock Art Studios : Still Going Strong
It is now over 60 years since Cecil Heathfield first had the inspiration to turn the derelict Royal Mail stables in Paddock Lane, Lewes into an art studio. He wanted to extend the creative art opportunities for adults in Lewes. At the time he was art adviser to the education authorities and had already instigated small classes for adults in village halls around the county.
The Paddock is now run as a charity by Lewes & District Visual Arts Association (LADVAA) and still organises classes for members ranging from drawing and painting to clay modelling, printing, mosaics and pastels. There are usually 3 groups a day using the building during the week with day school workshops at the weekends.
Most groups are tutored. More experienced members meet as untutored groups to use the facilities and work in a supportive and convivial atmosphere. Some travel over 25 miles to Lewes to use the excellent facilities.
During the summer months tutors often take classes into the surrounding countryside to paint Or draw from life.
The garden behind the studio is a constant source of inspiration. Printmaking equipment, a kiln and professional picture framing equipment as well as a large well equipped painting studio are available to members.
Each year there is an opportunity for members to exhibit and sell their work at the annual art exhibition in April. During Artwave, at the end of August, there is an exhibition to enable potential students to see the kind of work being done by groups & classes.
Angela Macpherson can be contacted (01273 471592) with any enquiries about joining LADVAA or the classes available.
