History

The East Kent Art Society proudly celebrated its centenary in 2002, and recent research has further confirmed its founding year as 1902. This revelation comes from a conversation with the daughter of Alfred Palmer, one of the society's founding members, who recounted her father's discussions with Lord Northbourne and other close friends about establishing an art society for East Kent. Their vision was to unite influential artists—including Royal Academicians from the area—to showcase their works annually.

Among the society's founders was Harold Waite, Principal of Sidney Cooper Art College in Canterbury, who was also a friend of Alfred Palmer. Together, they shared a commitment to fostering a vibrant artistic community in the region.

The inaugural exhibition took place during the Annual Cricket Week at Canterbury Cricket Club each August. Over the years, the venue for the Annual Exhibition has evolved; it was later held at the Sidney Cooper building and Canterbury College of Art, before moving in the mid-1980s to the Royal Museum and Art Gallery, now known as The Beaney House of Knowledge and Art in Canterbury's High Street. For three years, the East Kent Art Society also called St Peter’s Church on Market Street in Sandwich its home, where it hosted three major exhibitions and numerous members' shows each year. In 2022 the society relocated its exhibitions to it's current location in St Mary’s Art Centre in Strand Street, Sandwich.

While primarily an exhibiting society, the East Kent Art Society occasionally engages in other initiatives to promote art in the region. We encourage you to explore our website for the latest information on upcoming events. One of our foundational figures, Alfred Palmer, is honoured with a blue plaque at his former home in Fordwich, recognising his role as a co-founder of the society.

To commemorate our centenary, a large banner was displayed from the porch of the Royal Museum and Art Gallery in Canterbury. This follows a tradition established in the 1990s when a banner was displayed across St. George’s Street in Canterbury, just along from the Beaney. Celebrations in 2002 included a special dinner attended by the current Lord and Lady Northbourne and various dignitaries. Additional events such as sketching days and a winter show at a local commercial art warehouse also marked the occasion.

William Wordsworth, who served as President of the East Kent Art Society, played a crucial role in bringing in the constitution that reorganized the society. As the third generation of his esteemed family to be associated with the EKAS, Lord Northbourne continued this legacy, providing invaluable support to ensure the society's ongoing success as it entered the 21st century. 

Over the years, the East Kent Art Society has been privileged to include some illustrious members, such as William Curtis-Green RA, who served as chairman in the 1930s, and John Ward RA, who was a member during the 1960s and 70s.  Not forgetting the late Fred Cuming RA, who served as our Honorary President from 2020 until his passing in 2022.

In 2001, the Chairman, Mr. Fred Fielder, produced a definitive 23-page history and commemorative booklet that chronicles the first hundred years of the society, featuring numerous colour and black-and-white illustrations. This booklet is available by request. Following Fred Fielder’s retirement from the committee, Avril Sadler was appointed Chairman at the 2024 AGM, bringing a fresh perspective to the leadership of the society.

The enduring success of the East Kent Art Society can be attributed to the unwavering commitment of its artists and supporters, many of whom have maintained their involvement over the years. Notably, the late Charles and Pat Burnand hosted committee meetings at their home for over thirty-seven years. Current Chairman Mr. John Hughes and ex-Chairman Fred Fielder have both been members since the 1970s. We actively encourage younger artists to join as associate members, hoping they will carry forward the tradition, enthusiasm, and creativity established by the society's founders.

Those interested in becoming members are invited to submit four images or sculptures, typically around April each year. Applications can be directed to our Committee via info@eastkentartsociety.co.uk, for further information. Membership is granted upon approval from the selection committee, which comprises professional artists, educators, and current members of the society.  Visit our Events pages for more information on our upcoming New Members Day.