As I write, we have just enjoyed the most marvellous evening in the company of India Hicks, who visited us to tell us all about her book on her mother Lady Pamela Hicks. We were thrilled that Lady Pamela herself was also able to join us, making the evening even more special. By any measure, Lady Pamela has lived a remarkable life. Born a British aristocrat to the 1st Earl Mountbatten of Burma, the last viceroy of India, Lady Pamela was a first cousin to Prince Philip Duke of Edinburgh and served as bridesmaid and lady-in-waiting to Queen Elizabeth II, before marrying legendary interior designer David Hicks. With meticulous research and sensitive use of personal anecdotes and letters alongside some stunning images, India has created a beautiful, touching tribute to her mother with her book. However, this is more than an intimate family portrait, it is also a unique perspective of a century of change from someone with a front row seat at some of the most historically significant moments of the last century. India spoke with eloquence and humour and totally enthralled the capacity audience. It was an exceptional night and we are so grateful to India for making the time to deliver such a captivating talk. A hugely successful fundraising event for FOWL.
ART IN THE LIBRARY. It was a privilege to have the wonderful work of Jess Parker on display in the library over the past few weeks. I do hope you had the opportunity to see her exhibition inspired by the sweeping landscapes and horizons of the Chiltern Hills.
May is a busy month of change in the library for our ‘Art in the Library’ programme. We were truly blessed to have had a long and special association with the late James Kelso over the past few years and inspired by this relationship we are keen to continue in a similar vein. In that spirit, we are thrilled to announce that our new FOWL ‘Artist-in Residence’ will be the wonderfully talented Neil Foreman. We are so pleased that he has agreed and we look forward to an exciting collaboration over the next two years. Do pop in and see Neil’s inaugural painting on display.
This month, we are delighted to be hosting library favourites Jen Skene and Steph Hicks for ArtWeeks – what a wonderful duo to have together!
Following ArtWeeks, we are really looking forward to welcoming the U3A Thursday Art Group, who will be creating a multi–artist rolling exhibition over the coming weeks. The U3A Thursday Art Group meet regularly and work alongside each other, drawing on their shared skills and knowledge. Do come in and see the stunning results of their work.
FOWL CALENDAR COMPETITION 2027. It is almost that time of year for the competition to open to create our next calendar for 2027. This year, the theme for the calendar is: ‘Colours of Watlington’. What do these words conjure up for you? Perhaps it is the glorious blue of a bluebell wood, a swathe of gorgeous yellow daffodils or the soothing white of a bed of snowdrops – or do you think of the rich reds and oranges of the beech trees in autumn, the sight of a soft brown deer or a majestic red kite? Maybe your thoughts turn to a brightly coloured door/window, the burst of colour at a town event, or a spectacular sunset? In truth, the possibilities are endless. Interpret this however you see fit. The competition will open as usual on the 1st June and run to the 1st August. For details of how to enter just pop into the library or email fowlphotocompetition@gmail.com
FOWL FA. This month Storytime falls on May 2nd and 16th, whilst Rhymetime falls on May 5th and 19th. Lego Club will be on Saturday 30th.
Dr Anna Tilley; Chair FOWL
Friends of Watlington Library 