The Arts  group discusses and debates arts issues. It meets three times a year.  Its members give reports on architecture, art exhibitions, books and libraries, music, and the theatre. Members aim to promote awareness of how the arts operate in this country, look at new trends, and become involved in problem areas.

Recent speakers at meetings have covered a variety of topics.  In November 2007, Geoffrey Hunt from the Croydon Public Library spoke on his experiences as a librarian and about the current financial constraints on library resources.  In February 2008 committee members had a guided tour of  the Young Vic, the British Film Institute, and the South Bank Centre, viewing recent changes to the complex and hearing about the marketing work that is done on behalf of the arts organisation in the South Bank area.  The summer meeting speaker was an  American Professor who described the small museums and galleries in Massachusetts.

A seminar has been held on Saving our Arts Treasures in Places of Worship  [MORE] and also, in February 2008, one on  Funding the Arts [MORE]; this is a worrying time for the arts world with so much money being diverted to the London Olympics

The current work programme includes studies of: 

•    Funding for the heritage, arts and
       culture sectors

•    Closure and reduction of opening
        hours of public libraries

•    Concern about theatre in London
        and the lack of serious drama

•    Conservation in places of worship

•    Trends in architecture