Fonds 88-009 - Lyceum Club and Women's Art Association of Peterborough fonds

In September 1887, an enthusiastic group of young women artists organized an art club on the plan of the Art Students League of New York. In a studio on Yonge Street Arcade they met to work together in painting, drawing, modeling and sketching from still life and living models. No instruction was given, the object being to provide an incentive and help towards self-development, to draw out (independent of the instructor) personal resources, which are necessary to individual effort. In 1890 the Club was incorporated into the "Women's Art Club" for the purpose of creating general interest in art and encouragement of women's work, through the exchange of ideas and cooperation among its members, as well as the holding of art exhibitions and lectures. The motto chosen was that of the old Plantin Printers of Antwerp "Labore et Constantia" by Labour and Constancy. While the motto is kept in evidence, few now remember that the colours of the Association are red and white and the emblem the wild rose. In April, 1930, the Association affiliated with the Lyceum Club of London, England, and is now known as the Lyceum Club and Women's Art Association of Canada. Members are assured of a welcome in any of the International Lyceum Clubs. In March, 1905, the Women's Art Association of Toronto held its first exhibition in Peterborough. This exhibition of paintings and handicrafts was arranged by members of the Toronto association resident in Peterborough, and was such a success that it was decided to form a branch association, and on March 28, 1905, the Peterborough Branch of the Women's Art Association was organized. In December 1998, the organization voted to cease its connection with the Lyceum Club and its name became the Women’s Art Association of Canada, Peterborough Branch.