The origins of the show were almost accidental. Val Brinton’s late husband Richard somewhat impulsively booked The Commemoration Hall for  Val to stage an exhibition of her paintings - they soon realised it was a big space to fill, so with the help of artist Bill Talbot a group show of 23 exhibitors was organised.

The first exhibition was a great success  - and with funding from Hans Rausing, The Arts Council and others the show has gradually built on those early achievements to become a thoroughly professional event, widely respected, and reaching out beyond its local roots.

Artists are attracted from a wide area to exhibit in the show for its professional organisation yet friendly ambience - and of course the high visitor numbers and strong sales.  

About The Show

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Val Brinton, born in India, won a scholarship to Harrow School of Art at age 14. At 17 she was back in India starting a long and varied career  with major advertising agencies and freelancing - in illustration, cartoons, painting and theatre and film design.

Val has been thoroughly integrated into Wadhurst life since 1972 and is a passionate advocate for the show and its place in the local and wider artistic community.

Val stepped down from the organising committee in 2010. To mark the occasion we introduced the Val Brinton Bursary which offers one free place to exhibit to a school or college student.

In 2011 we linked with ‘The Trust for Chernobyl Children’ – our first joint venture was a postcard (silent bids) auction featuring the work of this year's selected artists plus many specially invited for the occasion.  The auction was organised by Yvonne Burdge MBE who founded the charity - it ran in the meeting rooms next to the Commemoration Hall for the duration of the exhibition (2-11 September 2011).

There are plans for a similar event in 2012.

The Valerie Brinton Bursary, awarded to an outstanding art student was awarded in 2011 to Sally Payne who is currently studying for a fine art degree at West Kent College.

The Sylvia Tiffin award for creativity and imagination was awarded to Clare Winchester for her painting “River Edge”.

The September Art Exhibition in Wadhurst is a professional show in a village as opposed to a village show. This annual exhibition was conceived and driven by the late Richard Brinton and it’s success is testament to his energy and wholehearted commitment to the community.

The show is unique in several ways....

• A selection show; the artist is chosen, not the work. Anyone may apply.

• Each artist has an individual area in which to show.

• Free admission to visitors

• Visitors are encouraged to discuss the works with the artists.

• The venue is the Commemoration Hall, light and spacious.

• The display stands were built specifically for this annual exhibition.

Members of The September Art Exhibition organising committee are:-

Lionel Burdge

Jane Gray

Brian Hanson

Gilly Hanson

Dani Humberstone

Gavin Roweth

Nigel Sims

Alison Trask

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