TAS Kington Langley Christmas lecture and Lunch 5th December 2023

Following coffee and stollen, and making generous donations to our raffle, in aid of our Arts Volunteering programme, we were treated to an excellent lecture on Post War Fashion and Illustrations and the Artists of Today with Connie Gray. As the lead curator for the art gallery Gray M.C.A, she curates the acclaimed exhibition Drawing on Style each year that celebrates the masters of fashion illustration alongside running comprehensive lecture programmes that accompany the exhibitions in London and New York. Connie has a background in fashion and broadcasting, and is a specialist in the history of 20th century fashion illustration and its powerful legacy with both the most influential fashion publications internationally and the great couture houses of Paris, London and New York. So, we were in excellent hands

‘As the world emerged from WWII and Christian Dior introduced his revolutionary ‘New Look’ in 1947, fashion illustration became pivotal to the success of a fashion industry that had struggled to survive the war years in Europe. Drawn by the masters of fashion illustration, their art dominated the front covers and pages of Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar with their gloriously chic interpretations from the couture houses of Paris and London. Traditionally considered to be commercial art, this genre of art is now understood to be part of a lost school of Fine Art’ (Connie Gray).

Connie introduced us to a number of well-known illustrators from both sides of the Atlantic, some of whose work we were familiar with – especially those devotees of high-end fashion magazines. The glorious use of line, working from live models and the use of colour brought the history of fashion illustration right up to date.

We also learned that the illustrators had strong links to contemporary artists and the cross fertilisation of ideas was extremely interesting. They were trendsetters of their days enticing the stylish to move with the fashion times. However, it is the cosmetics and perfumes that make the money for the couture houses. So, we spray and add the lippy and buy into some of that magic.

Connie joined us for our Christmas Lunch and then she had to rush back to London for the opening of her latest show - The Italian and the Milliner - Sculpture in Bronze by Robyn Neild

We had our usual convivial lunch with over 90 members who enjoyed the delicious buffet provided by the caterers, led by Helen Spears. This was a wonderful opportunity to catch up with friends, make new acquaintances, discuss Christmas plans as we enjoyed the wine and food.

The raffle was chosen at the end of the meal and we made about £275 which as very generous and will help fund 2024 projects.

Once again I would like to thank the committee and all the volunteers who helped on the day.

Heather