Our first general branch meeting of 2012 was held on Saturday, 4 February 2012 at our usual venue, the Sydney Mechanics’ Institute. Welcoming remarks were offered by Chairperson Judith Hughes, who announced the recent ‘special birthday’ of Rosemary in January, and the acceptance into the University of Sydney Fine Arts program of member Judy Howard. Both members received a round of applause.

A focus on the subject of the upcoming 1-day mini-conference in Mittagong ensued with special pleas from the conference committee for people to register soon. A lot of work has already been done in planning and organising, and it would be lamentable if it had to be cancelled due to lack of support from members. Contact Julia Redlich if you need more information or another registration form sent to you. The cost is very reasonable, and the setting makes it possible for members outside of Sydney to participate. The mini-conference is open to everyone, not only Society members.

Minutes were then taken as read, and reports presented by the Treasurer, Webmaster, and Librarian. The branch treasure is safe, but the website, although it continues to receive many visitors, could use more creative input from members, such as Ricardian book reviews, comments on articles posted, etc. The librarian pointed out that no books or other items had been checked out in the last six months, and those materials along with the branch archives need to find a more suitable placement than at present. It was agreed that some of the books would be offered for sale at the mini-conference, along with the various Ricardian items we have available. Lynne reported that new stock would be available as well.

Our guest speaker was David Millar MA (Hons) Cambridge, former curator at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, and an expert in English architecture who was accompanied by his wife Susan. He opened his presentation on “Architecture in Medieval Times” by recommending a book called The Three Richards, by Nigel Saul, which he had found a very worthwhile treatment of Richards I, II and III. He added that he considered the era of Richard III ‘the gold period’ of English history.

Detail of the nave of St Albans Cathedral showing different building styles:  romanesque/norman on the right and gothic on the left (Photograph © Dorothea Preis)

The audience was deeply absorbed by David’s learned overview of the development of English architecture starting with its Roman and Norman roots, which he illustrated with wonderful slides of Roman exemplars and how their elements were mirrored and advanced in the magnificent cathedrals with their corbels, flying buttresses, pointed arches and late Gothic spires. A lively discussion took place after raffles were drawn, over afternoon tea.

The next meeting will be on Saturday, 21 April 2012, with Dorothea Preis presenting on the topic of Richard III and Learning.

Tags: Architecture, NSW Branch