Our Council ... a brief introduction

In 1993, Noel was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia for "service to business and management, particularly for advancing the development of women in management." Noel is also the designer of the Top Steps Career Development series, The Ultimate Step and The Board Step. She is also a talented water colour artist and is our current president.

 

Ted has been the backbone of the VICs for many years and his contribution as Secretary to this society has been remarkable. A talented artist in his own right (voted Artist of the Year 2007), not forgetting many other awards. Apart from the many hours spent at the VAS, dealing with all of the administrative and publishing tasks as secretary he still finds time and energy to pursue his love for watercolour painting.

An enthusiastic and talented water colour artist and book illustrator, who has taken on the daunting task of "stand in" Vice President/Treasurer. He is also a member of the Executive Committee. Julian is strongly drawn to historic maritime subject matter but also enjoys the natural flora and fauna of Australia. A very versatile watercolour artist comfortable in any subject matter.

Joyce is a well known and respected artist in the Australian art scene and has been a serving council member for many years. Her interest and wide knowledge in the history of art, local and Australia wide, has distinguished her and was awarded the OAM in 2006. She is the official VAS Historian and Archives co-ordinator. If you have any questions relating to art or artists in Victoria, Joyce is able to guide you in the right direction.

Our Outdoor Convener and past Norma Bull Award Co-ordinator. At his 18 years old art school Gregory teaches adults painting. He is an art coordinator at the annual International Flower and Garden Show. In 2003, the Victorian Artists Society honoured him with a Fellowship for his contribution and services to the arts. His Still Life subject matter is highly sought after and more than adequately describes his talent as an established Australian artist.

Anne comes from a well known linage of artists in her family, being an established actor herself. My role on council is to look after visitors, guide occasional tours and organise guest artists, speakers and musicians. Anne states "My contribution, whilst not specially artistic - is practical. The VAS - is special - a little like a second home". "It was in this building, I first climbed the stairs, aged two, to see my first exhibition."

 

Annie is our Marketing coordinator. Current tasks include initiatives to cost effectively market Victorian Artists Society events and space to users. She is keen to see the V A S continue with its role in the artistic community and to grow in its spread of artistic pursuits.  As an artist, Annie tries to paint on a regular weekly basis and to explore the effects and ranges of techniques across many different media. Her work is held in many private collections across Australia.
Meg is a multi award winning artist who paints mainly in oils but also uses mixed medium and charcoal. She is a past President of the Malvern Artists' Society and runs a Monday painting group for portraiture and general painting. Meg has painted 26 portraits of old soldiers for the 90th Anniversary of the ANZAC landing, including soldiers from WW2 and Vietnam and exhibited in the Shrine of Remembrance. Assistant on the marketing committee.
Richard Knafelc has been painting since 2001. He primarily paints in oils but has also tried watercolour as well as sketching in charcoal or pencil. . "I love the challenge of not only attempting to gain a good likeness but also trying to capture something of the essence of the subject's personality."  Richard has been a member of Victorian Artists' Society since 2003 and joined the Council of the VAS this year.

A talented watercolour artist and teacher at the VAS. Nell's flamboyant and extra large works are obvious by their presence and feature a strong appreciation of colour effects. She has mastered and thoroughly understands the challenges of the watercolour medium.                                                                Nell is the convenor of Art Classes at the VAS.

 

Dinny joined the council at the end of last year and has involvement with the permanent collection at the Victorian Artist’s Society, the Archives and Historical aspects with Joyce McGrath, and with the exhibitions and events along with other council members. Dinny paints in oils, pastel and occasionally watercolour, and also enjoys sketching in pen and ink.

An artist of 30 years standing Manwel is a Bachelor of Arts from the R.M.I.T. and has achieved many recognitions for his contribution to the arts in Australia and over seas. Many of his figurative and landscape works have been acquired by numerous collectors around the world. He is also a teacher of art and a stage scenery and mural painter and accomplished poet.

 

 

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A valued member on council who has taken on the challenge of organising the popular Maritime Exhibition. Graeme has recently undergone a serious health issue procedure and the entire council wishes him good luck, a speedy recovery and hope to see him back enjoying his role on council.
Noel Waite AO FVAS  President
Julian Bruere VAS Treasurer
Ted Dansey Secretary
Joyce McGrath OAM FVAS
Gregory R. Smith FVAS
Anne Scott Pendlebury
Meg Davoren-Honey
Anne Finkelde
Richard Knafelc
Dinny Birrell
Nell Frysteen VAS
Manwel Cassar
Dr. Graeme Harper

One of the familiar smiling faces one first meets when entering the historic premises of the VAS. Christine is our assistant secretary to Ted Dansey and shares some of the surplus office work which is part of the administrative duties of our society. We hope Christine will be with us for many years to come. Her presence and contribution is much appreciated.
Christine Doyle Asst. Secretary

 

 

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The VAS welcomes Eileen to our council

More info soon

The VAS welcomes Michael to our council

More info soon

Eileen Mackley
Michael Ashby