MEET BETTY FOOKS, THE RESIDENT OF BENAHAVIS ART SOCIETY

THE FIRST time I met Betty Fooks was for an interview for my TV show “Marbella Now”.

It was the first time I’d heard of the Arts Society of Benahavis which she presided. It was fascinating to hear about all the cultural lectures they offer and the array of international speakers. For those who appreciate art this Society is certainly a must.

That was almost two years ago. Since that time I’ve met Betty on several more occasions, learnt a lot more about what the Society does, and art. I also happen to know her recent successor as Chairman of the Board, James Kayll.

In true “passing the baton” style together they hosted the recent Art in Action event, held annually in Benahavis. This is probably Betty’s last event as organiser and one she can be well proud of; what a send-off!

There was an amazing turnout of all nationalities, including many Spanish which was a pleasant surprise for all. The whole day was packed with different activities and performers and people milled around the two floors of the exhibition and the garden areas incessantly. There were stalls upon stalls of amazing artwork, which lined the two floors inside, each artist proudly presenting their craft: sculptures, paintings, photography; the calibre and variety were astounding – far superior to what I had expected. There was also a literary corner with local authors and a writing competition was held for those present which was quite a laugh! I was also pleasantly surprised at how the children were so prominent in all aspects of the day and the event; well done Betty! There was an arts and crafts space set up for the children outside; a local kids rock band was playing on the terrace followed by other youngsters performing “professional” ballet – extraordinary!

I was invited to attend the event to be one of the judges for the children’s art competition with submissions from Swans, Laude and the British International School. Themes for up-coming talks at the Art Society were to be interpreted and I have to say it wasn’t easy for us to come to a unanimous decision. The first place has an additional prize of having their painting featured on the cover of the new Arts Society of Benahavis brochure; so do keep an eye out for it!

To top off a surprisingly fun day, my kids and granddaughter also came up for the event and the sun shone; I hadn’t seen either for days so that was also pretty perfect! I will certainly attend next year’s event, judge or no judge; it was truly a brilliant Sunday and the event lived up to its name: there was lots of art and lots of action.

Check out MarbellaNow TV w/c 11.02.19 to see the recording of the event and some very nice exhibits and performances!

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