The Society of Graphic Fine Art at Mandell’s Gallery, Norwich

2nd- 30th October 2021 Open Mon-Sat 10am – 5pm

Mandell’s Gallery is pleased to host an exhibition featuring works by 29 members of The Society of Graphic Fine Art. The Society represents the very best of contemporary drawing in the country and promotes drawing as a fundamental skill, in both traditional and contemporary work, in any medium bringing a huge variety to the show. The society has a long history and celebrated its 100 years in 2019.

‘Drawing is a way of seeing. When we draw something we really see it, and that is its great value. When we draw something we reveal its truth to all who look at our drawing. There is no substitute for this. Using a camera is a different process, valuable maybe, but different.’

Prof. Ken Howard OBE RA Hon SGFA (Taken from his forward in the SGFA Centenary Book ‘One Hundred Years- Society of Graphic Fine Art)

Before the First Word War there had been a strong revival in the production of fine art prints, however, there was no society for black and white drawings and prints of other methods. In 1918 Frank Emanuel, artist and tutor held meetings in a pub in Holborn and with student Edward Blaikley and others they decided to form the Graphic Society in 1919 staging their first exhibition in 1921. There are now more than 130 elected members – professional artists from Britain and abroad who work in all drawing and printmaking media, many of whom regularly exhibit at the Royal Academy, Mall and Bankside Galleries in the UK as well as in museums and galleries worldwide.

Always moving forward with new imagery and techniques, their work is much sought after and has won many awards both nationally and internationally. Taking part in residencies, community arts projects, giving lectures and tuition, illustrating books, theatre design, painting murals, these artists have much to contribute, their imagery always rooted in drawing.

‘I feel very proud to be the Society’s President a Society which has such strength and depth of artists working in so many mediums and styles, yet all having at their heart drawing.’

Les Williams President of SGFA