Local artist Bill Hester, who is an active member of the West Wycombe Art Group, took up the inaugural post of Artist in Residence for a Day at Fillingdon Fine Art on Saturday. In his true understated style, he quietly slipped into the hot seat with minimum fuss or bother. First he selected a compilation of ceramic pots of varying shape, size and design with which he constructed a simple still life to depict in twig and ink, and charcoal pencil. Showers thwarted his attempts to sit outside and capture the beautiful autumn colours in watercolour, so he then moved on to reproduce an earlier seascape of his in oil pastels. A steady stream of visitors all day ensured he had plenty of interest. Many customers dabble themselves and so were keen to discuss ideas and techniques with Bill. “I was surprised how much people just wanted to talk” he said afterwards. Having an artist in situ added an extra dimension to the gallery and visitors seemed to enjoy the live action and interact with gusto. And so we look forward to welcoming Bill’s neighbour, Georgina Peachy-Saunders on Saturday 1st November.
