Yorkshire art club founded by David Hockney’s teacher marks 60 years
Founded by the former art teacher of David Hockney, a Yorkshire art club is celebrating 60 years of nurturing creativity in the community.
His greatest claim to fame was setting one of the world’s most famous living artists on his path to success.
Richard Bayer (1900–1991) was art master at Bradford Grammar School, where a pupil happened to be a young David Hockney. The pair remained friends for decades, with Hockney visiting him whenever he returned to the UK.
Alongside teaching, Bayer set up several art groups before establishing what is now Menston Arts Club – which is still going strong 60 years on. It began modestly in the Malt Shovel pub on Main Street in the town.
By the 1970s, rising membership meant a move to Kirklands Hall, where the club still meets on Monday evenings. 2026 will see the usual packed programme of demonstrations, talks and workshops as well as a special exhibition at Kirklands on May 16 to 17.
Two of the club’s longest-standing artists are Shirley Done and Maureen Waddington. Shirley joined in 1969 and membership has become a family tradition, inspiring three generations of artists.
Her mother, Ruby Brookes, was one of the club’s early members, and it was through the club that Shirley met her husband, Graham—whose father, Ben Done, was both a founding member and a family friend.
Shirley says the creativity runs deep: their children also joined the club and “continue painting to this day.” Maureen Waddington, 93, joined in 1972 – after being encouraged to join by Richard Bayer. She went on to teach art in further education, continuing well into her 80s.
Her late husband, David—a former art master at Woodhouse Grove— was a gifted artist and dedicated contributor to the club.
Maureen herself served the club tirelessly over the years, taking on roles including chair and president.
Bringing a younger perspective is club secretary Josie Mitchell, who joined two years ago aged 46.
She says the warmth of the membership stood out immediately and being a member has enriched her life: “What’s so special is the friendships I’ve made with people of all ages.”
Josie got hooked after doing an oil painting class at Leeds City College – she enjoyed it so much she encouraged her father to join. At her very first Menston Arts Club exhibition, she won the visitors’ vote for favourite painting. She encourages people to give it a go. "People say: ‘I can’t join the club as I’m not very good’ or ‘I haven’t done it in years’ but there’s no rules who’s to say it’d good or not.
"You can improve by coming and meeting other people, seeing demonstrations and making time for yourself to give it a go.”
Membership includes access to a full programme of events, and opportunities to exhibit work at the club’s exhibitions in May and November. A thriving crafts community also showcases handmade items on the exhibition craft stall.
Visit menstonartsclub.co.uk.