In 2024, The Arts Society Leeds proudly celebrates half a century of bringing the arts to life. On June 19th, the Society marked this milestone with a grand reception at Castle Grove Hall. Members and guests enjoyed a lecture by Susan Rumfitt titled “The Romance of Gold,” an apt theme for the Golden Anniversary.
The anniversary event celebrated the Society’s history and thanked its members for their unwavering support. The salon and lecture hall were adorned with purple and gold balloons, and members dressed in gold received a complimentary raffle ticket. Speeches were given by Anne Palmer, former Chair; Susan Rumfitt, a distinguished lecturer; and Claire Wesley, Chair of The Arts Society Northeast Area. Susan Rumfitt cut the anniversary cake, and Claire Wesley proposed a toast to the Society. The event featured prosecco, cake, and a display of archival memorabilia and photographs showcasing the Society’s vibrant 50-year history.
The Arts Society Leeds is part of The Arts Society, a leading arts education charity with a global network of local Societies. Originally founded as the National Association of Decorative and Fine Arts Societies (NADFAS) in 1968 by a group of pioneering women passionate about art education, the organisation rebranded to The Arts Society in 2017. The Patron is Her Royal Highness, The Duchess of Gloucester, and the President is Dr. Lloyd Grossman CBE, FSA.
The Leeds Society’s journey began in 1973 with an inaugural meeting at the Dragonara Hotel in Leeds city centre. During the 1980s and 1990s, the Society contributed to the purchase of several artefacts now displayed at Temple Newsam and Lotherton Hall, including the Bramham Servants’ portraits and a striking late-18th-century glass hanging lamp, both showcased at Temple Newsam.
The Arts Society Leeds has long held its lectures at the historic Castle Grove Hall in Headingley. This Grade II Listed Victorian mansion, with its opulent interior, offers a grand setting for gatherings.
The Arts Society Leeds offers nine lectures annually, featuring experts accredited by The Arts Society who share their specialist knowledge on a wide range of topics. This year, the lectures have covered subjects ranging from the history and architecture of Wentworth Woodhouse to the street art of Banksy. Full details of the 2024 lecture program are available on the Society’s website, with an equally diverse lineup planned for 2025.
In addition to lectures, the Society organises two annual visits to places of cultural or artistic significance, such as historic houses, museums, and art galleries. The Society also supports Opera North Education Programmes through fundraising and grants, offering members unique opportunities like attending special “behind the scenes” events, including a full-dress rehearsal of Così fan Tutte.
The Society faced challenges during the lockdown, which led to a drop in membership. However, there has been a significant increase in membership this year. The Society’s resilience and continued success are due to the dedication and hard work of its volunteers. In 2024, the aim is to further grow the membership and encourage more members to volunteer, allowing the Society to expand its activities and events. The mission is to connect people to the arts and to each other.
Annual membership of The Arts Society Leeds is available at a reasonable fee, reflecting the quality of its speakers. Members enjoy nine lectures each year, a quarterly magazine, and monthly email updates from The Arts Society, featuring national information and discount offers. Non-members are welcome to sample the local lectures for a fee of £10.
Visit the Society’s website for details on the lecture program and how to become a member.
www.theartssocietyleeds.org.uk
