On a grey, rain-soaked afternoon in September, the St John’s Kendrew Barn Gallery provided a welcome retreat from the busy streets of St Giles. Bathed in warm light and vibrant colour, the gallery offered an inspiring glimpse into the rich artistic talent of Oxford. The setting was perfect for the Oxford Art Society’s (OAS) latest Open Exhibition, a bi-annual event that invites the community to explore the artistic achievements of local creators.
With four spacious, airy rooms, the gallery provided an inviting space to peruse the collection. According to Caroline Moore, an oil painter and member of the society, the space is small enough to take in without feeling overwhelming. The OAS holds two major exhibitions each year: one Open Exhibition in September and a Members Exhibition in March. As Kay Gibbons, a glass artist and committee member, explained to Cherwell, members of the OAS must live within 30 miles of Oxford and have their art accepted into two open exhibitions before receiving an invite to join the society.
Founded in 1891 by watercolour artist Walter Tyrwhitt, the society’s mission has always focused on promoting local talent. The society’s 134 years of dedication have uncovered a wealth of artistic brilliance in Oxford and its surrounding areas. Previous members include celebrated artists like Henry Lamb, Paul Nash, and Nancy and Richard Carline. The prestigious nature of the society is evident in its leadership, with Kathleen Soriano recently announced as President Emerita and Francis Hammel, a renowned Oxford-based artist, opening the private viewing of this year’s exhibition.
This year’s Open Exhibition was thoughtfully arranged to guide the eye through changing colours and themes, creating a harmonious and immersive experience. With around 250 pieces on display, each artwork had something unique to offer. The diversity in media and styles ensured that there was a piece to capture the interest of every visitor, with a noticeable sense of boldness and innovation running throughout the collection.
The OAS is also committed to nurturing young artists in Oxford, with the OAS Young Artists Exhibition open to those aged 18–30, encouraging student participation. The Oxford Art Society Associates (OASA), founded in 1962, fosters further links between the University and the wider community by providing six lectures a year on the visual arts, delivered by specialists in their fields.
At the heart of the OAS’s mission is collaboration, as demonstrated in the works of its members. Kay Gibbons shared how she draws inspiration from poetry and the surroundings in her art, while Mark Clays, another OAS member, shared his ongoing project A Never-Ending Way. This ambitious work, which features a four-volume concertina sketchbook of the Hinksey Heights Nature Trail, incorporates his volunteer experiences and an excerpt from Wordsworth’s The Prelude. Clays’ project, still in progress, will take 18 months to complete, and its inclusion in the exhibition highlighted the OAS’s enduring connection to the local area.
The Oxford Art Society’s Open Exhibition is a testament to the vibrant and ever-evolving creative spirit in a city renowned for its intellectual and artistic heritage. With its blend of past influences and forward-thinking artistry, the exhibition provides a glimpse into the future of Oxford’s artistic community. I look forward to returning for the Members Exhibition in March 2026.
Visit the OAS website to view the exhibition’s artworks in the online gallery and plan your visit to the Members Exhibition in March 2026.
