About The Arts Society Chiswick
Q What is The Arts Society Chiswick?
A We are a friendly local society bringing people together to enjoy the arts in all their forms. As part of the national Arts Society, we share the same aim: to promote the understanding and enjoyment of the arts through high-quality talks, visits, and cultural activities
Q What is your website address?
A theartssocietychiswick.org.uk
Q Who can join?
A Anyone with an interest in the arts is welcome – you do not need any special knowledge or background, just curiosity and enthusiasm. In fact, most of us come together to learn in a friendly environment
Q How does the society link to The Arts Society nationally?
A We are one of 350 local societies across the UK, Europe and New Zealand each running its own programme of talks and activities. Members also benefit from being part of The Arts Society network and have access to their support and their excellent Directory of Speakers
Membership
Q How do I join?
A Simply complete the membership form which you will find on our website www.theartssocietychiswick.org.uk or pick up details at your first event then pay the subscription fee
A Is there a joining fee?
A No
Q How much does it cost?
A Our current membership subscription is £60 per person, £120 for 2 people living at same address. This covers your entry to the full programme of talks and the running of the society
Q Is there a waiting list?
A No, we aim to keep membership open to all
Q What are the benefits of joining?
A Free entry to all 10 monthly specialist talks on all aspects of the arts to include: music, theatre, ballet, fine art, street art, and more
Priority booking for study days, visits, and tours
Regular newsletters with updates on events
Opportunities to join in volunteering and community projects
Talks
Q What are the Talks about?
A Our monthly talks (10 per year) cover a wide range of subjects – from fine art, street art, architecture, and design to music, theatre, ballet, cultural history and more
Q Who are the Speakers?
A All speakers are accredited by The Arts Society through a vigorous selection process, ensuring engaging talks from recognised experts in their fields
Q When do talks take place?
A Talks are held on the 2nd Thursday of the month at 8 pm, at POSK, Kings Street, Hammersmith. The bar opens from 7pm where we hope you will enjoy a drink and meet other members beforehand
Q Can I bring a guest?
A Yes, we welcome guests, assuming we have space. The fee is £15
Venue & Accessibility
Q Where are talks held?
A Our talks take place in the Malinova Room at the Polish Social and Cultural Association - POSK, Kings Street, Hammersmith W6 0RF
Q Is the venue accessible?
A Yes, the venue has step-free a lift and facilities for those with limited mobility. If you have specific needs, please contact us in advance
Q What are the transport options?
A Nearest Tube Station: Ravenscourt Park (District) 3 minutes walk away
Public bus: 110, 190, 267, H91 Stop: Ravenscourt Park Station which is directly outside POSK
Limited Parking: subject to London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham restrictions
Visits, Tours & Study Days
Q What sort of visits do you organise?
A We arrange day trips to museums, galleries, historic houses, and gardens, as well as occasional longer tours
Q What are study days?
A These are special in-depth sessions with expert speakers, giving members the chance to explore a topic in greater detail
Q Are visits and study days included in membership?
A They are optional extras and usually have a separate charge to cover costs
Volunteering & Community Involvement
Q Do you support local arts or heritage projects?
A Yes, we take part in The Arts Society’s heritage, trails and young arts initiatives, supporting projects in the local community
Q How can I get involved?
A We welcome volunteers for projects, event organisation, and committee roles. Speak to a committee member if you’d like to help
Practical Information
Q How do I renew my membership?
A Renewal details are sent out each year. You can renew online or by speaking with the Membership Secretary at a talk.
Q How do I update my contact details?
A Please let the Membership Secretary know if your email, phone number, or address changes.
Staying in Touch
Q Do you have a newsletter?
A Yes, members receive a regular newsletter by email, with programme details and updates.
Q Do you use social media?
A We are on X/Twitter. Follow us for updates and reminders.
Q How can I keep up to date?
A All upcoming events are listed on our website, newsletter, and at our talks.
Contact
Q How do I get in touch with the society?
A You can contact us via the website, by email at info@theartssocietychiswick.org.uk or by speaking to a committee member at an event.
Q Can I suggest a talk topic or trip?
A Absolutely – we welcome ideas from members. Please let us know if you have a suggestion.
Welcome to The Arts Society Chiswick
A Quick Guide for New Members
We’re delighted you’ve joined us! Here’s what to expect when you come along for the first time.
Arriving for the first time
- When to arrive: Doors open about 7pm an hour before the talk. Arrive early to check in, find a seat, and meet other members
- Where: Talks are held at POSK Hammersmith. Look out for our welcome desk near the entrance
- Guests: If you would like to bring a friend – guests are very welcome for a guest fee of £15
The Talks
- Format: Each talks lasts around 1 hour, followed by questions
- Speakers: All our speakers are accredited by The Arts Society and are experts in their fields – from art and architecture to music, theatre, and cultural history. Most accredited speakers have vast experience as art historians who have worked extensively in their field
- Programme: Details are available on flyers which can be found in many locations around the area. However, you will receive details of the year’s talks when you join, and updates are also sent by email
Refreshments & Socialising
- Many members enjoy a glass of wine, a beer or a soft drink before the talk
- It is a great chance to meet new people and chat informally about the talk
- Do not worry if you are coming alone – there is always someone happy to say hello! Please make yourself known to any of the committee members who can be identified by the badges they wear
Beyond the Talks
- Visits & Tours: We organise trips to museums, galleries, historic houses, and gardens.
- Study Days: In-depth sessions on a particular theme, led by expert speakers.
- Community Projects: Opportunities to get involved in volunteering and supporting the arts locally.
Tips for New Members
- Keep an eye on our newsletter and website for upcoming events. Events are often very popular; we do not want you to miss out!
- Don’t be shy about introducing yourself – our members are very friendly
Questions?
If you are unsure about anything, just ask one of our committee members at a talk, or contact us via the website. We are always happy to help