The Society's Journal

The front cover of the current issue

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

          Hi, friends!

Alan certainly intends to do his utmost to keep to those high standards that Ernie set; from the look of this Spring issue, it looks like that goal has been admirably achieved.

There is only one problem with the magazine and it is this; we are afraid that the only way you can get your hands on a copy of The Marquetarian is by becoming a member of the Marquetry Society! it is an exclusive publication after all - and how about this for a recommendation: around 99% of the readers of the Marquetarian keep every issue they have ever received, they never throw them away! how many magazines can you say that about?

So then, let's take a look and see what's in the Spring issue of the Marquetarian.

We start with information and guidance for the 2010 National Marquetry Exhibition. This, in the main, deals with the requirements and basic rules for entering an exhibit in the exhibition. As there are so many classes involved in our National Exhibitions, this is compulsory reading if you want to provide yourself with a good chance of attaining a reasonable ranking and decent award in your particular class.

There is also, in conjunction with the National Exhibition rules and guidance notes, a brilliant article on the location and surrounding attractions of the 2010 National Marquetry Exhibition. The wonderful historic Longmeads House at Writtle is the home of this year's National Exhibition. This lovely old building could certainly tell some good old stories and tales from its long history; many of them are related here. Close by historic and picturesque attractions are also covered in this article.

The Chelmsford Marquetry Group tell us in words and pictures about the success of their Voluntary Arts Open Day and the resultant recruitment of a goodly number of new members to their group and the Marquetry Society. Surprisingly, this recent recession has seen a resurgence of interest in practical hobbies - and, we're pleased to say, marquetry is in there with the best of them, as this article suitably illustrates.

The Marquetarian From The Start series reaches part 11 in its long run. This series brings you extracts and small articles taken from the very first issues of the Marquetarian printed over fifty five years ago! And - would you believe, many of those techniques and methods still 'hold water' today. It's just like Oil Painting, nothing really changes over the decades and centuries; they perfected it ages ago - and perfection can't be improved upon!

Brian Peet brings us part two of the craft and history of the legendary Master Marquetarian Anton Seuffert. The Seuffert family made some really superb furniture of exhibition quality in the mid to late 1800's; much of which is now in Royal collections and museums world wide. Do have a look at the wonderful cabinet and marquetry work seen in part 2, it is undeniably superb.

The "Simple Art of Marquetry" introduces us to the thoughts and ideas of a Woodworker's Club when they were confronted with a hands on "Introduction to Marquetry" at a pleasing location in autumn tinted Kent. Don Eacott of the Kent Woodworker's Club describes the enjoyable marquetry session his club experienced with the Meopham Group towards the latter part of last year. You'll find this a very interesting and inspiring article to read if you are considering taking the plunge into the art of marquetry.

The latest "victim" of the Cutter Interview series is that most well known of Marquetarians, the indefatigable secretary and founder of the Staffordshire Marquetry Group, Quentin Smith himself! Quentin's rise and success through the echelons of the Marquetry Society on to his current status as multiple award winner and Officer on the Executive Committee makes fascinating reading. The interview is well populated with copious examples of Quentin's meticulously detailed marquetry. A very enjoyable read is this interview.

Former editor Ernie Ives is featured in a special anniversary storyline, this time receiving his surprise award for 30 years of dedicated editorship of the Marquetarian. The Ladies and Girls from the Sproughton Group got together a secret presentation committee, and with the help of Hon. Membership Secretary Ken Southall (in the guise of photographer) an unsuspecting Ernie was bowled over with a full blown Presentation Ceremony prior to one of the group's regular meetings at the closing stages of last year. A heart warming read this one.

Anna and Tony Reindorp not only provide us with more word quizzes, they also provide us with the answers to last issue's crossword (for which we thank them, after all, what would a crossword be if you weren't supplied with the correct answers?).

We also include an appreciation and tribute to the life and work of much missed marquetarian David Barker. David was a good friend to all those who knew him in the society; he was also a very talented marquetarian in his own right, plus, not only that, he was a remarkable wood worker to boot. A very clever chap was David.

And, then again, don't forget 'Readers Letters' 'Chairman's Chatter' 'Independents Corner' and much, much more.
So, as is always the case, we have yet another excellent issue for your perusal!.