Introduce yourself and tell us about your role on the Friends Committee
As a self-employed person in the arts world, the role of Secretary of the Friends Committee has been enormously rewarding and fun. I get involved with many other aspects of Cambridge culture and Kettle’s Yard is a solid highlight. It has been a spiritual home to me since I discovered it in my late teens (over 40 years ago)! I wrote an A level essay on ‘Flora in Calix Light’ (1950) by David Jones, not really understanding why I loved it so much. It’s been a place of constant revelation.
What has been your most enjoyable moment?
Apart from assisting with the smooth running of the committee, I like to think I am known for my art quizzes and imaginative gatherings at Kettle’s Yard, such as the Friends Annual Party. Last year we concocted ‘artist voices’ with ‘Friends’ reading out quotes in character, inspired by Laura Freeman’s Book Ways of Life: Jim Ede and the Kettle’s Yard Artists. Another event I enjoyed organising was the garden outdoor film screening. We have done this a couple of times and it has been a fun way to raise funds for Kettle’s Yard.
There are too many enjoyable Friends events and visits to remember, but I still dream of the abroad trips we did to Turin in Italy, and Berlin in Germany. Another highlight was the most recent visit to Lawrence Edwards Studio in Suffolk which was beyond astonishing & inspiring.
What are you most proud of from your time on the Committee?
Keeping the Friends a place where Town, Gown and Culture meet. The Friends of Kettle’s Yard are a core part of Kettle’s Yard and the University of Cambridge, and they have a unique place in Cambridge as a whole.
Why should someone volunteer with the Friends Committee?
Volunteering with the Friends Committee is a wonderful way to support the Kettle’s Yard house and collections, meet interesting people and connect with the University.
The Friends committee is a welcoming group, raising funds for Kettle’s Yard and bringing fresh ideas to the organisation. The Role of Secretary would suit an efficient, organised, practically minded person who loves the place and loves art.
Join the Friends of Kettle’s Yard Committee
We are looking for a new person to take up the volunteer role of Secretary of the Friends of Kettle’s Yard Committee to help support the smooth running of the Friends.
The Friends of Kettle’s Yard were established in 1984 to support Kettle’s Yard. By becoming a Friend you will help us to conserve the house and collection, present ground-breaking exhibitions, develop exciting learning and community projects and make art accessible to all while also developing your own interest in art.
Closes 12 April 2024.
Join the Friends of Kettle's Yard
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