2026 Exhibition

Report on Summer Exhibition 2026​

By Monica Curley

 

Featuring the work of 76 artists, the 2026 Summer Exhibition was yet another successful event for our Society.

 

St John’s once again provided a smart and welcoming venue and the artwork exhibited showcased an array of stunning and varied talent.

 

We displayed seven sculptures, 130 hung paintings, a small sample of photography, 185 folios  and 20 craft items.,

 

Our Private View was a joyous and lively occasion in which we celebrated the work of our members and caught up with friends old and new.   We welcomed almost eighty guests, including our VIPS:  Mary Branson, a phenomenally accomplished artist based in Guildford, as well as the Deputy Mayor of Guildford, Dominique Williams.  Not forgetting our very own President, Jane Allison.

 

During the exhibition itself, footfall was slightly down on last year – but still reached almost 800 visitors over the course of the exhibition.  It was noticeable that the hottest days were also the quietest and it is possible that the current heatwave had an impact.   Once again, our survey of visitors tracked the efficacy of our advertising with banners, roadsigns and word of mouth being particularly effective this year.

 

Despite continuing economic challenges, sales were once again slightly higher than last year at almost £6,500.  This comprised 44 items: 16 hung paintings, 24 folios from the browser stands and 4 craft items. 

 

Not all of our artists sold their work but this was no reflection on the quality and standard of their art.  These are tough economic times and financial confidence is low for many.  However, all of the pieces on display were much admired and our Visitors’ Favourite tally showed that all contributors received votes.

 

We can be truly proud of our own and our fellow artists’ work.

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This kind of event simply doesn’t happen without a huge amount of effort so I would like to say a big thank you to all of the fabulous Guildford Art Society committee (and in some cases to their families.)  Thanks so much also to the members who so cheerfully pitched in to help committee members with setting up and also with dismantling the exhibition.  What a pleasure it was to work together!