The Birmingham Watercolour Society was founded in 1907. Letters to the 'Mail', a local Birmingham, British newspaper, suggested that there be an art organisation formed which would be dedicated to the advancement of painting in watercolour. The response was considerable, and soon after the Art Society was born under the Presidency of Mr Walter Showell.
By the late 19th Century the area had already become a centre for excellence for the creative arts. Contemporary organisations such as the Royal Birmingham Society of Artists (RBSA), the Birmingham Art Circle, and the Easel Club (founded by Walter Langley) were well established, and continue to flourish to this day.
The painting artist membership moved on in the 20th Century with many contributions by BWS members to the British Art exhibitions of the Royal Institute of Painters in Watercolours, Royal Society of Painters in Watercolours, Royal Society of Marine Artists, the Royal Cambrian Academy of Art, and the Royal West of England Academy.
Today this distinguished British Art Society elects artist members from a wide geographical spectrum. Meetings are held monthly and the Society stages at least two art exhibitions each year. Membership to the BWS is via election and talented painters in watercolour are both welcome and encouraged to apply to the Society for selection.
