Dissenters are a creative bunch, and we already know that many of you are excellent artists, photographers and crafters. If this is you then read on …
Over the years we’ve all enjoyed St Matthias Church with its beautiful acoustics and ambience, but this historic building is in desperate need of essential repairs. The tower is full of pigeons, the roof leaks, the plaster is crumbling off the back wall, there is only one less than luxurious toilet, and don’t get us started on the stonework repairs or the porch doors … the list goes on. But here’s how we can make a difference using our combined artistic skills …
On 14 and 15 November 2025 Dissenters will be hosting an Exhibition and Sale of donated photography, art and craft at St Matthias Hall. We are inviting everyone to donate something, especially all those who have performed, recorded, sung, worked or enjoyed a concert at the Church, with the aim of selling all these donated items to raise as much money as possible for the Church’s Restoration Fund. We’re also inviting everyone to come along and buy something!
Donations can be painted, printed, drawn, stitched, glued, carved, knitted, sculpted, or sewn. You can even donate an artwork you already own but would be willing to rehome, all in a good cause.
There will be a gala private view on the evening of Friday 14 November with fizz and fairy-lights where artists, donors, friends and family can mingle with the intention of enjoying all the work on display and bagging a one-off artwork to take home … with Christmas just around the corner a piece of original art or photography makes a great gift.
All donated exhibition items can be dropped off at St Matthias Hall between the 3rd and 7th November. Please include a card with the work title, artist name and suggested sale price. All items must be ready to hang. All the donated works will be for sale, with the funds going directly to the Church Restoration Fund.
Will also be looking for some Dissenter volunteers to help with the launch night and exhibition day. Email enquiries@stmatthiashalls.org.uk if you can help.
Please email a photo of your exhibition entries to enquiries@stmatthiashalls.org.uk with the subject line Art Exhibition by the end of October 2025. Please include your name, title of piece, the dimensions of your work, estimated sale price and a few sentences about your art.
The pieces will remain on display at St Matthias Hall for the following week so that those attending classes and workshops here can also enjoy and/or buy them. Any unsold works will be available to collect from St Matthias Hall on week beginning Monday 24 November.
So grab your beret, load up your palette, get creative and join us on this artsy fundraising mission!