A Packed Evening Full of Laughter and Surprises

The night was wonderfully busy, with so much happening:

• A quiz that tested everything from art knowledge to quirky trivia (with plenty of laughs along the way).
• A raffle that added excitement and raised funds to support our upcoming events.
• Time to simply chat, catch up, and meet new members — something that often matters as much as the painting itself.

We owe a huge thanks to Karen Frost, whose brilliant suggestion to take part in the Eco Fair in Carshalton is already shaping the year ahead. It's ideas like this that keep our group fresh, relevant, and connected to the wider community.

Celebrating Creativity: Our Awards

No CANDWAG evening would be complete without celebrating art, and this one was no exception.

🏆 The "Painting I'd Like to Take Home" Competition

This ever‑popular prize went to our chairperson Rosie, whose work captured hearts and imaginations across the room. It's always a tough choice, but her painting stood out for its originality and beauty.

🌿 The Stuart Sibley Award for Best Plein Air Painting (Summer 2024)

This year's award went to our brand‑new vice chair, Simon. And no, it wasn't a fix — just a well‑earned recognition of his plein‑air work during the summer months. The award is named in memory of Stuart Sibley, celebrating not only artistic skill but also the joy of painting outdoors and connecting with nature.

Moments like these remind us why local art competitions in Wallington and Carshalton are such an important part of our programme — they celebrate individual achievement while strengthening our collective bond.

Looking Ahead: The 2024/25 Programme Year

This first social evening was more than just a get‑together; it was the launchpad for our entire September–July programme. And what a year we have in store.

Our regular meetings continue every Thursday at 7:30 pm at Holmwood Hall, where we welcome new members and visitors. Whether you're an experienced artist or just beginning your creative journey, you'll find a supportive community ready to share knowledge and inspiration.