This article is the first of a series that showcases the remarkable work of numerous Art Groups and Societies registered with us. If you are looking for an Art Class then this is a great place to start your search. During our road trip around the North West we’re stopping off in Chorley at Lodge Artists Society, established in 1979.

When & where do we meet?

Meetings 7:30pm – 9:30pm every Wednesday.

Brinscall & Withnell Athletic and Recreational Association, School Lane, Brinscall, Lancashire, PR6 8PT.

Membership is £120 per year with no door fees (except on demo nights when there is a charge of £3 for members, £5 for non-members).

A little bit about our history

In 1979, twelve enthusiastic local artists established Lodge Artists and attended the first meeting at the Oak Tree pub in the village of Brinscall. The name came from the local beauty spot Brinscall Lodge. The group held further meetings in the Commercial Hotel on Water Street in Chorley. In November of that year, we held our first Art Exhibition in the Astley Hall Gallery, where nineteen members exhibited 115 paintings.

The exhibition has been staged every year since then with many regular visitors and numerous
paintings sold. Members enjoy competing to win one of the many awards presented on the preview
evening by local dignitaries.

Over the years, the society has grown and become well known for its friendliness and artistic achievements. Having met at St. Chads, Whittle le Woods for several years, it has now returned to its ‘home’ with meetings now held every Wednesday at Brinscall Athletic and Recreational Association HQ, which offers ideal facilities for all the activities and a great social atmosphere as well.

How does our group run?

We have various activities to inspire our members to try new subjects and techniques. We encourage members to experiment with different media – acrylics, watercolour, oils, cold wax, water soluble coloured pencils, charcoal – and share all techniques.

Once a month we invite a guest speaker to demonstrate new techniques and styles in a range of materials. Our recent demonstrators include Paul Talbot-Greaves, Chris Shields, Beverley Chapelhow, Judith Herring and Lea Nixon. As well as inspiration our guest artists are happy to share hints & tips, painting techniques and advice on materials.

We run a ‘Theme Night’ once a month which is optional. We vote for our favourite picture, which must have been painted entirely that night (within 2 hours). One prize goes to the winner.

On ‘Competition Night’ members bring a completed piece on a set subject. We then vote for our favourite paintings, for which there are first, second and third prizes. Participation is optional. You can carry on with your own work during the evening. It’s great fun and very rewarding to be recognised and encouraged by fellow art enthusiasts!

Members also volunteer to hold a ‘workalong’ where they share ideas, inspiration and techniques. There is something of interest going on at almost every meeting with the option of simply doing your own work.

To find more information on our programme for the year visit our website diary page.

Who is the group suitable for?

We are a friendly, sociable group of artists of all ages and levels of ability. Beginners are welcome to try out a meeting free of charge. Contact us by sending an email to [email protected] or simply call in on a meeting night – don’t forget your brushes and painting or drawing materials!

Upcoming exhibitions

St Laurence Church, Chorley – 1st July – 31st July
Cafe Ambio, Astley Hall, Chorley – 6th August – 8th October
One day exhibition at Brinscall HQ – Sunday in September T.B.A.
The Coach House Gallery, Astley – 17th September – 30th September

Members must attend a minimum of 12 meetings each year to qualify to enter our exhibitions.

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