It is rather reassuring to those of us who believe that the Arts should play an important role in the community, that we have a local pub landlord, Martin Donovan, who is prepared to go to some lengths to give space and time to an Art Club. The Dupont Art Club held an evening launch of its exhibition, hosted by Martin, on 17 November. The paintings will adorn the walls of the pub, The Duke of Wellington in Upper Gloucester Road, for the future delight of pub regulars and those actively seeking to view the exciting and colourful work of members from the Dupont Art Club.

The exhibition was opened and the assembled company was addressed by the Chair of the club, John Hird, and by Dr Robert Snell, Chairman of Brighton & Hove Arts Council, whose engaging speech amused the crowd with a pastiche of fresh literary and artistic references. Commencing with the promise, “Don’t worry, I won’t keep you long” as Henry VIII was reported to have said to each of his six wives, Dr Snell also extolled the virtues of the “pub” which he declared was uniquely British and much more than just a place to have a drink. This Great British Institution is a meeting place, a restaurant, a venue for receptions, team games, quizzes, and, above all, it is at the heart of the local community, as exemplified by the turn-out for the exhibition launch, arranged by Tina Stiles in close and effective collaboration with Martin. Continue reading Art at The Duke →