| It is with deep regret that we announce the death of Suzanne Lucas MBE, Founder of the Society of Botanical Artists who passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 21st after a long illness borne with great fortitude. The funeral took place on Tuesday January 6th at St. Michael's Church, Mere, Wiltsshire followed by burial and was well attended by friends and Members of the Societies with which she was associated throughout the last fifty years. Before Suzanne had the vision to fund and set up the Society in 1985 the art form had existed for over 300 years with no Society to provide a forum and encourage friendship between botanical artists. Now there are Societies worldwide and one can safely say that much of the current renaissance enjoyed by the artform springs from our first Society, the simile of big oaks springing from little acorns being particularly appropriate in this case. It is our wish to create a lasting memorial to Suzanne for which donations will be welcome. Cheques may be made out to the Society of Botanical Artists, Suzanne Lucas Fund, and sent to Vickie Marsh SBA, Minas Tirith, Ruthin Road, Coedporth, Wrexham, LL11 3US |