WaterWays Exhibition Makes A Splash

On Friday 3rd September, the Society of East Anglian Watercolourists launched their new exhibition, WaterWays at Babylon Gallery on Ely’s riverside. 

The gallery walls are filled with 137 watercolour paintings, the combinations of water with pigment results in a range of compositions, techniques and styles. All framed paintings are for sale, as well as a large collection of unframed works. Artists cards are also available to purchase.

The SEAW was initially set up by Richard Sorrell NEAC RBA PPRWS, President of the Royal Watercolour Society (2006-9). Its Patron, Lillias August RI is a member of the Royal Institute of Painters in Water Colours and a multi-award winning artist. “I am very happy to be the SEAW Patron; there are so few regional societies that promote water-based media,” she says. “Watercolour is such a varied and challenging medium that can be used in so many interesting ways – experimental and traditional; quick and slow; realistic and abstract; controlled and loose; translucent and opaque …”

Following their call for watercolour works, the SEAW had a record number of submissions from members, ‘friends’ of the Society and non-members. The SEAW are regular exhibitors at the Gallery, however due to Covid were unable to exhibit last year. 

Babylon ARTS’ Chief Executive Claire Somerville said “We’re committed to supporting local artists and groups by showcasing their works and we’re delighted to be able to host the Society of East Anglian Watercolourists for another year at the Babylon Gallery. The variety of works is astonishing, and shows what’s possible through the medium of watercolour.”

Alongside their exhibition, SEAW are offering a series of watercolour workshops with varying themes throughout September, to encourage beginners and professional artists to explore the possibilities of watercolour as a medium. There are spaces available, so people can visit the Babylon ARTS website: www.babylonarts.org.uk to book a place. 

The Society of East Anglian Watercolourists’ Exhibition WaterWays is on now at Babylon Gallery until Sunday 26th September and is open Tuesday to Sunday, 12pm to 4pm with free entry.

Press release from Babylon ARTS