Friends' Garden Party at Gainsborough's House

Jack Owen, Mayor of Sudbury

The rain held off yesterday evening for the annual Friends' Garden Party at Gainsborough's House, the artist's birthplace museum in Sudbury.

A record turn out of 200 people enjoyed drinks and canapes in the garden, which, as usual, was looking stunning.  There was the opportunity for guests to view the current exhibition Great Art in Suffolk Museums.

The aim of the event was for Friends to bring their friends along in the hope that they too would join up, and, indeed I understand that several people obliged.

Among those who became a Friend yesterday was the guest of honour, Rupert Maas, of Antique Roadshow fame.  Rupert gave an amusing speech and also recited a poem about Thomas Gainsborough which sadly I am not clever enough to remember!

Other important guests were artist, Christopher Le Brun, the President of the Royal Academy of Arts, and of course the Mayor of Sudbury, Jack Owen.

Left to Right, Rupert Maas, Brian Moody Chairman of Trustees of the House,  and Christopher Le Brun.

To join the Friends costs from as little as £25.00, although there are different levels of membership. There is also the opportunity to become a Patron, or even a Mulberry Patron, depending on the level of support.  Friends enjoy free entry to the House, including to all exhibitions and also a programme of talks, excursions and events during the year.  Patrons have the opportunity to attend a dinner in London in November, which is often held in an interesting location and also have their own programme of special events.

Gainsborough's House has exciting expansion and development plans over the next few years and therefore there has never been a better time to think about becoming a supporter.