My ‘The Arts Society’ Story

It has been quite a journey from the phone call in August 2016 asking me to help set up a new branch of the Arts Society in North Bedfordshire to the vibrant and flourishing Society we have today. 

Knowing very little of “the arts”, I did wonder if I was really the right person to be involved but I’ve always enjoyed listening and learning from anyone who talks passionately about their subject and being part of a team. The Committee of the Great Ouse Valley Arts Society is just that – the most tremendous group of people, with energy, ideas, understanding and a capacity for pulling in the same direction to deliver, what we hope, is a series of first class Art Talks and visits in a very friendly atmosphere. All our committee members lead busy lives, so having only four committee meetings a year means it’s not too onerous!

There are now just under 200 members of the AS GOV and what a talented, interesting group they are. Getting to know them has been a huge privilege, they are the “great” in the Great Ouse Valley.

Being akin to Winnie the Pooh, I like honey, I’m a little overweight and a “bear of little brain”…but, slowly my knowledge increases! The opportunities that our own society and the wider international organisation of the Arts Society brings are immeasurable; I feel very lucky to be a part of it. 

And so to our future, it looks very good indeed. Come and share our passions, become a member, join our committee, in the words of Winnie the Pooh “You’re braver than you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think.” And as for myself…

 “Perhaps the best thing to do is to stop writing introductions and get on with the book.” – Winnie the Pooh