Our group is feeling excited. The prospect of us having our own, dedicated studio space in the centre of our village, came a big step closer tonight.
Since the outset, we have discussed the merits of such a space. Meeting in one another’s home causes practical difficulties. It also means that we cannot grow in size, as we want to do. It would be such a thrill if we could encourage the spread of art activities in our locality. We would love to be joined by new Portuguese developing artists, which would balance the ex-pat contingent that exists at the moment.
Tonight, we finally plucked up courage to ask our Junta (local Council) for what we wanted. We were met by the most positive response we could have hoped for and guided to the next step we must take to realise our dream. A potential building was even discussed – one that appears most suitable.
In return for the generous donation of premises that we are asking for, we have now publicly committed to holding exhibitions of our work, which will attract people into our village. We have also said that we will give something back to the community, if not in monetary terms, then with our labour, for example, creating decorations for festa time.
Our next step is to put our proposal in writing to the President, who will then mediate on our behalf with the District Council, who owns the building. Taking the big step of publicly declaring our aims is going to force us to get moving in certain areas where we have been slow. This blog is one of those things, that now has to be brought up to scratch and be representative of who we are and what we are about. The other big matter is the lack of any substance for public exhibition! I think the months ahead will be very busy as we put in the necessary work to make this a successful group.
Art Group d'Acha 