Each month brings yet another amazing meeting of the Contemporary Group.
Once again diversity was key with no two contributions overlapping or exploring the same themes or concepts.
Notwithstanding the above, it remains possible for the sake of connections and writing this summary to discover links. We begin with the appeal of the imperfect. Tessa Mills explored imperfect reflections in the cracked and frozen surface of ice on the canal. Rust brings imperfections to a onetime pristine surface and Bob Oakley revelled in the ‘Joys of Rusty Machinery’. Imperfection was fundamental to Henry Leeson’s portrayal of timeworn and roughly handled flowerpots which continue in unappreciated stoical service in gardens at the National Trust.
Introspection formed the basis for two presentations, whether through the self-portrait self-evaluation as expressed by Nigel Haywood with his powerful set of gritty monochrome studies or by Stewart Bourne who offered his acutely observed ‘Visual Musings’.
Unveiling what’s there in plain sight was the topic for Clive Haynes as he revealed patterns and imagery beneath our feet in a city high street. Similarly, although with different intent, Sue Biggart’s debut contribution showed how ‘the seeing eye’ and double-exposures can distil memories of visits to museums into their elegant essence.
Visits with a difference linked three presentations. Dr. Charles Ashton took us to Shanghai where a space-age urban landscape prevails. Lucy Allum explored details of sculptures and corners at Canwood Gallery whilst Maddy Pennock interpreted shapes and intimate details within the grounds of Croft Castle.
Tej Kaushal presented a fascinating interpretation and a representational approach to bird photography whilst Darren Leeson’s imagination took us within the sinister environs and the dark contents of ‘The Automaton Facility’.
We enjoyed two ‘Outside Sources’: JJ Jordan’s ‘Before I forgot’ which evokes time when images felt more like whispers than declarations. Each image is an echo, a trace of presence rather than a statement of identity. Link: Before I Forgot
Ben Alper: A personal and quirky look at the Eternal City Link: Rome: An Accumulation of Layers and Juxtaposition
All members’ work from our February session can be seen in our latest ‘Viewpoint’ e-book. Click on the image below or use this link: Viewpoint and choose the February 2026 edition. The same link provides access to many previous issues of ‘Viewpoint’ - a fascinating treasure-trove waiting for you to explore!
Our next Meeting will be 5th March 2026 and, if you’re ready, we’re ready to receive work ahead of the usual reminder message.
With all best wishes,
Tessa and Clive