Join CandWAG
Become part of our vibrant art community. Choose the membership that's right for you.
Membership Options
Pro-rata Annual Membership
Full membership year (September to August)
Pro-rated if joining mid-year
What's Included:
- Weekly Thursday evening sessions (7:30pm - 9:30pm)
- Up to 6 live demonstrations per year from professional artists
- Summer plein air painting sessions in Surrey
- Participation in 3 major exhibitions per year
- Quarterly painting competitions with prizes
- Social events throughout the year
- Member directory listing with your profile
- Access to all group resources and materials
Pro-rata pricing: If you join mid-year, your membership fee will be adjusted proportionally.
Questions? Email us at rochellemarion@outlook.com
Group Rules
It is important that applicants feel able to comply with the following group rules:
- Members will elect a Chair and Committee annually to run its affairs and entrust them to approve applicants for membership.
- The Committee arranges the annual programme of events and members are expected to support these to the best of their ability.
- Exhibition opportunities are provided to show members' work, at indoor and outdoor venues. Members' support is expected. Only paid-up members may exhibit at these exhibitions.
- Exhibitors will be expected to provide the necessary support and help steward at exhibitions.
- Subscriptions are reviewed annually. Currently the subscription is £70. Some reduction is allowed for members joining in the second half of the year.
Ready to Join Us?
IMPORTANT: Visit Us First
First-time applicants should:
- 1. Contact us via email: rochellemarion@outlook.com
- 2. Attend one of our Thursday sessions (7:30-9:30pm at Holmwood Hall)
- 3. Bring examples of your artwork with you to show us your current work
This visit helps us discuss whether CandWAG is the right fit for your artistic practice and allows you to experience our working atmosphere.
Step 1: Arrange Your Visit
Contact us to arrange attending a Thursday session and bringing examples of your artwork.
Step 2: Apply After Your Visit
After attending a session and discussing membership with us, the Membership Secretary can issue the application form by print or email.
First-time applicants only. Existing members renew through the Membership Secretary.
Prefer a Printable Form?
The Membership Secretary can provide a printed form after a first-time visit.
Ask for FormApplication Process
- 1. Contact us to arrange attending a Thursday session
- 2. First-time applicants visit us with examples of their artwork
- 3. Discuss membership and assess mutual fit
- 4. Complete application form issued by the Membership Secretary
- 5. Committee review (usually within 7 days)
- 6. Email notification with outcome and next steps
- 7. Start attending our Thursday sessions as a member!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does membership cost?
Annual membership is £70 per year (September to August). If you join mid-year, your membership fee will be pro-rated proportionally based on the remaining months. For example, joining in January would cost approximately £50 for the rest of the membership year.
What is included in my membership?
Your membership includes:
- Weekly Thursday evening sessions (7:30pm - 9:30pm)
- Up to 6 live demonstrations per year from professional artists
- Summer plein air painting sessions in Surrey
- Participation in 3 major exhibitions per year
- Quarterly painting competitions with prizes
- Member directory listing with your profile
What level of artistic ability do you require?
We are a group for confident painters and artists actively developing their own practice. We are not a teaching group - members work independently on their own projects during Thursday sessions. First-time applicants are encouraged to visit a painting evening and bring examples of their artwork so we can discuss whether CandWAG is the right fit. Existing members renewing do not need to do this again.
When and where do you meet?
We meet every Thursday evening from 7:30pm to 9:30pm at Holmwood Hall, Bandon Hill, Wallington, Surrey SM6 7DJ. The venue is easily accessible by public transport (5 minutes from Wallington Station) and has free parking available. Sessions run year-round except for major holidays and a short summer break.
How long does the application process take?
First-time applicants should arrange a visit, bring examples of their artwork, and then complete an application form issued by the Membership Secretary if both sides are happy to proceed. Existing members renew directly through the Membership Secretary and do not need to attend as first-time applicants again.
Can I visit before applying for membership?
Yes, for first-time applicants. Please attend a Thursday painting session before applying and bring examples of your artwork with you. This gives you a chance to meet our members, see the venue, observe the working atmosphere, and allows us to discuss whether CandWAG is the right fit for your artistic practice. Existing members renewing do not need this step. Please email rochellemarion@outlook.com to arrange a visit.
What art materials should I bring to sessions?
Members bring their own preferred art materials and work on their own projects during sessions. You're welcome to work in any medium including oils, acrylics, watercolors, pastels, colored pencils, or mixed media. We recommend bringing: your chosen medium (paints/pencils/pastels), brushes or tools, paper/canvas/board, palette, water container (if needed), and paper towels/rags. The venue has tables, chairs, and good lighting. Our experienced members are always happy to offer advice on materials!
Are there any additional costs beyond membership?
The annual membership fee of £70 covers all regular activities including weekly sessions, professional demonstrations, and competitions. You'll need to provide your own art materials.
Exhibition hanging fees: If you choose to exhibit your work in group exhibitions, there is a hanging fee to cover venue costs. This only applies to members whose work meets the exhibition standard and who wish to display.
Optional special workshops or trips may have small additional fees to cover venue or instructor costs, but these are always optional and clearly communicated in advance.
Still have questions?
Contact UsWhy Join CandWAG?
Vibrant Community
Connect with fellow artists, share techniques, and make lasting friendships in our welcoming group.
Expert Guidance
Learn from experienced artists through live demonstrations, workshops, and one-on-one feedback.
Exhibition Opportunities
Showcase your work in our regular exhibitions and gain exposure in the local art scene.