THE visiting speaker for the May meeting was Mike Skidmore, whose topic was oil painting.

He explained that he was a figurative painter with a preference for portraiture, in spite of being trained at a time when figurative painting was not encouraged.

His method of painting aims for the classic tonal, three-dimensional effect that is such a feature of works by the old masters.

His demonstration was arranged so that the various stages of painting a portrait in oils could be covered in one evening session. Since a long drying period is normally required between each stage, Mike had brought along some canvasses at different stages of completion so that each could be demonstrated in turn.

Everyone was very impressed by the demonstration and the finished work that Mike had brought along.

The next meeting will be at St Luke's Memorial Hall, Evesham Road, Headless Cross, on Wednesday, June 4, at 7.30pm.

It will be an informal workshop evening when some members will work in their chosen medium and all members will be free to observe and discuss the work and participate.

The Spring Exhibition will be on Saturday in Worcester Square, Kingfisher Centre.