New TALKS & TRIPS for Autumn

We've just finalised the talks and trips for autumn and hope there is something in there for everyone. Remember each time you attend you are not just learning something new and having a good time but helping SM&AG towards the brighter future Swindon deserves. Obviously after such an introduction you might be expecting the next bit - we have made a small price increase on talks but at £5 for Friends and £7 for Non Friends I'm sure you'll agree it's still pretty good value. Tickets and prices for trips are not available yet but you will be receiving the Journal and flyer for the new series very soon.

Friends have priority booking for 7 days from 17.08.15. Tickets are available for talks call the museum on 01793 466556 (not available yet) and for trips email Linda Kasmaty at lindakasmaty@hotmail.com or phone on 01793 527149


In celebration of 10 years of the National Trust in Swindon we have three themed events.

On Thursday 24 September (7.30 at SM&AG) Tom Freshwater of Trust New Art will be talking about the many exciting contemporary art programmes he has been involved with at National Trust sites.

Wednesday 30 September (Meet at 10.30 at Rabley Drawing Centre, Rabley, Marlborough, SN8 2LW, £10, Friends only) trip to Rabley Drawing Centre. An introduction from director Meryl Ainslie followed by a chance to meet the artist Sara Lee and a printmaking demonstration with Sara and gallery assistant Amy Jane Blackhall.

Thursday 29 October (7.30 at SM&AG) Dr Nicola Snashall gives an account of the recent excavations at West Kennet Avenue, Avebury.

Friday 6 November (12.15 - 2.30 meet at Heelis, Swindon, SN2 2NA, £5, Friends only) A guided tour of the National Trust Headquarters at Heelis.

Wednesday 18 November (10 - 1.00 at SM&AG, £10, Friends only) Return visit for the Friends of Rabley Drawing School. A chance to meet over coffee and cake , followed by a talk from Sophie Cummings who will be showing something special from the archive.

Thursday 26 November AGM (6.30 SM&AG, Free event) Followed by a talk by Dr Mike Pringle from the Richard Jefferies Museum.

Thursday 10 December (7.30 at SM&AG) Angels in Art with Madeleine Emerald, art historian and lecturer, who will examine the painted ceiling in St John’s Church, Hoxton, London and consider whether the angels depicted here should be considered part of the Pre-Raphaelite tradition.