On Sunday 7 February BDFAS (the Benahavis Decorative and Fine Arts Society) held its fourth annual exhibition .  The show was opened by Chris Stewart, celebrity author of ‘Driving Over Lemons’ who emphasized the importance of the creative arts in society.  From the opening moment the spacious ballroom of the Gran Hotel was thronged and the buzz continued until the closing ceremony. 

Thirty two artists were on show, providing an astonishing variety of work.  Painting, sculpture and ceramics vied for attention with photography and prints. Among the exhibitors was Benahavis bronze sculptor Venancio Sanchez featuring a fabulous life-size model in clay.   Also present was Anne Ridge displaying bright embroidered textiles such as wall hangings.    Another of the more unusual exhibitors was Vega ceramics, whose collection embraced both engaging birds and butterflies for pot plants and at the other end of the spectrum vivid  large-scale wall panels.   

The focus of the show was the creative process.  All the artists were available to talk to visitors about their techniques and inspiration.  In addition there were opportunities to take part in still life sketching and to watch pottery in progress by Totem who run popular classes.    A new innovation was the chance to hear Havis TV describe how to put together a TV production.  Acting as compere, presenter Didier Laurent not only entertained the audienc e but facilitated the smooth running of the day. 

A highlight of the exhibition was the Children’s Painting Competition.  Entrants were asked to provide an image suitable for the cover of BDFAS’s next season lecture programme. The quality of the work by the young students from Mayfair Academy and Swans was outstanding.  Outright winner was Ines Illis Mejillas whose painted Head of Salvador Dali made a huge impact.  

In conclusion I can only repeat Chris Stewart’s words.  “Art should be the inspiration for society”.

Betty Fooks - Chairman, Benhavis DFAS

To see more photos and a video clip of the Exhibition please go to the BDFAS Facebook page.

More information about BDFAS visit www.benahavisdfas.com

Take a look at Betty Fooks, Chairman of Benahavis DFAS on local television talking about her Society and NADFAS. Please click here