We are very sorry to have to announce the sad news of the death of Katharine Skillen after a short illness.

Katharine was a long-standing member of the Bruton Art Society and for many years an invaluable member of the Committee. Over 13 years she made an outstanding contribution; among many things she was a driving force behind the annual exhibition and for three years was responsible for its organisation. She was a key person helping with the selection and hanging of pictures, cataloguing and the numerous behind the scenes tasks that are involved.

Katharine also edited the Newsletter for five years and played an essential role in the smooth running of Society events. Who will forget her delicious mulled wine at the Christmas party!

Above all, Katharine will be remembered as an exceptionally gifted artist. Her main field was wood engraving (she herself ran wood engraving workshops) and she was a very talented painter; her other skills included working with textiles and creating jewellery.

She will be remembered for her warmth and generosity of spirit, always ready to offer encouragement to fellow artists. Katharine will be very sadly missed.

Damaris Lee
(see below for examples of her work.)