Devizes, Wiltshire 

 

The Lawrence Society of Art, Devizes in Wiltshire was founded in 1953. The Society was named after Sir Thomas Lawrence (1769 – 1830), the famous royal portrait painter. His father was the Landlord of the Bear Hotel in Devizes. As a gifted child, Thomas earned money painting affluent guests. Above left a self portrait of Thomas Lawrence aged 19. Above right Sir Thomas Lawrence a portrait in 1825 by Richard Evans. 

Our Lawrence Society of Art Annual Exhibition will be held in the Corn Exchange, Devizes from Wednesday 9th November to Saturday 12th November inclusive. Admission free. Come and see the varied and talented works on display.

 

There is a brief biography of Sir Thomas Lawrence, written by Sarah Padwick, on this blue link.

  • Alan Carter has abstracted some details of young Tommy Lawrence living at the Bear Inn in Devizes from James Waylen's 1859 "History of Devizes" where his father was the landlord. This has charming details of some of the celebrities who visited him and some family details.

The Lawrence Art Society aims to foster interest in art by lectures, demonstrations, classes, outings, workshops and a major annual exhibition.

  • Meetings are held on the first Monday of the Month from September to June (except January) in the Cheese Hall of Devizes Town Hall.
  • The 2011 -2012 programme is shown below
  • Annual Membership is £12 (£6 for students). Membership form can be printed from this link
  • Secretary: Mrs Sarah Padwick. Contact at 01380 721595, mobile 07711 018406,              e-mail sanda.padwick@talktalk.net

 Programme for the Lawrence Art Society for 2011 - 2012

 

The Lawrence Society of Art, Devizes meets on the first Monday of the month for 9 months of the year. It is held at 7.30pm in the Cheese Hall of Devizes Town Hall, Long Street, Devizes. Non-members are very welcome. There is a break for refreshments at half time.