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In the mid-1980’s talented and well-known local artist Jesmarie Roberts Wray founded a group for amateur artists who met in the Portway Annexe in Wells. Jesmarie’s name incorporated those of Jesus and Mary and her husband Brian still lives in Wells. After several years the Portway premises were taken over by the Institute of Adult Education and no longer leased out to small societies, so the group relocated to St. Thomas’s Church Hall in Wells. The change of venue necessitated a newname for the group formerly known as Portway Painters, so it was decided to incorporate the name of its Founder, and to this day, is still known as Jesmarie’s Painters. Many years later, a friendly group of amateur artists still meet on Monday afternoons in St. Thomas’ Church Hall, several of whom have been members since Jesmarie originally brought them together.

There is no formal tuition apart from an occasional visit from a professional demonstrator. Members mainly do their own thing in their preferred style and medium, whilst learning from one another, and the more experienced artists are always happy to advise the beginners. New members are very welcome and for more information, please contact the Secretary, Mrs Sue Williams by email to: talktalk.

Jesmarie’s Painters' annual exhibition in the Cloisters of Wells Cathedral is the highlight of the year, when a very diverse selection of paintings is on display and offered for sale at reasonable prices. This year the group are holding their exhibition from 8th to 19th July inclusive. Access is via the Cathedral Main Entrance which includes disability access, with café facilities on the first floor, including use of the lift.