learn, laugh, live

Galleries Group

Status:Active, open to new members
Organiser:
Sandy Patrick
Group email: Galleries group
When: On Wednesday afternoons 2:00pm-4:30pm
1st Wednesday (Meeting); 2nd Wednesday (Visit)
Venue: Group Organiser's Home
The National Gallery in London

Thought-provoking discussions on art and visits to exhibitions and museum collections in London and further afield, including lesser known galleries.

Several Sennockians attended the Memorial Concert dedicated to Chris Dance (1943-2026), held on 17th May in St. Andrews Church, Islington.    The concert was organised by William Tuck, a member of Chalemie, a group of musicians, actors, and dancers who enjoy performing early music, early dance, and commedia dell’arte.   Chris had been a long-time active member of Chalemie, playing harpsichord and other keyboard instruments, hence their performance of the memorial concert, in which we were treated to a programme of songs and music by John Dowland (1563-1626).  Chris was also an active member of u3a, and supported the Great Comp Music Festival, The Sevenoaks Music Club, and The Arts Society Sevenoaks.  It was heartening to meet so many other people who knew and had enjoyed his company.  There was cake and fizz in his honour.

The Gallery Group is sad to have lost Chris Dance, its leader for many years. Although increasingly incapacitated, he remained an enthusiastic contributor determined to be part of our presentations and gallery visits right up until January, opening his home for our monthly meetings. We have a lot to thank him for. This year we’ve been impressed by the immense courage of Lee Miller’s life. We've had another look at some of the work of Vanessa Bell. We’ve also been very chatty about Seurat & the Sea which is presently at the Courtauld. Next month we shall be immersed in Nigerian Modernism.

April 2026

The Group now meets at Sandy Patrick’s home on the first Wednesday afternoon of the month for the slide presentation prepared by a member, and then we visit the gallery exhibition on the second Wednesday, usually arriving ready for coffee, then the exhibition, then lunch and discussion afterwards.

This Autumn various group members have visited Cecil Beaton’s Garden at the Garden Museum, Theatre Picasso at Tate Modern, and Dirty Looks:  Desire and Decay in Fashion at The Barbican.  Joseph Wright of Derby at the National Gallery is planned for December.

Whilst we would love new members, unfortunately the Group Organiser's home can only accommodate ten people at a squeeze, but if anyone is interested, please email using the link above.

Last updated 23 May 2026