Susan Orpen moved to the Cape from Gauteng, where she was a well-known professional artist and teacher. In Rondebosch, she was delighted to discover a small group of women eager to learn watercolour painting. And so, at the end of 2023, the Tuesday Group was born in Cheryl Bauer’s Maidstone Studio.

The group has since grown into a full class, with members sharing the delights and frustrations of working in watercolour. Not only has their artistic expertise grown, but they have also formed strong bonds. Tea breaks are filled with animated discussions about books, art, hiking, baking, gardening, fynbos and life’s experiences.

Teaching art to older students is particularly gratifying, as it is often something they have wanted to do all their lives but have been too busy with careers and families to pursue. Painting is a skill that can bring satisfaction and pleasure for a lifetime, while adding an extra dimension to holidays. Have paintbox and brush, will travel!

For some of the artists in the Tuesday Group, this is their very first exhibition. Their work reflects their responses to the world around them, as well as their growing mastery of the demanding techniques of watercolour.