As our members already know the big news for 2022 is that the Association of British Botanical Artists (ABBA) will become the Association of Botanical Artists (ABA).
After much thought and in view of our changing international membership, we have decided this is the time to update the name of the association to truly reflect the geographical diversity of our members.
From a small initial membership, almost exclusively derived from the United Kingdom, the association has grown spectacularly and now has members from 32 countries across the world.
The rationale for this change is to offer a more inclusive feel to all our members, something we have worked towards since the beginning. Keeping fees low and exhibiting members work whatever the stage of their botanical art journey. We are now an International organisation a fact that we absolutely celebrate.
We have an amazing group of like minded botanical artists who have all helped to create a vibrant and inclusive community. We hope this change will bring us even closer to achieving our overarching ethos of:
Everyone - Everywhere - Every ability
On a day to day basis this name change will make little difference to our members and supporters. We will still be the same friendly crew and offer an expanding range of activities and exhibition opportunities, just with one ‘B’ less in our title.
There will be changes to the website and email address plus a few other operational changes before the official change over. We will also keep the ABBA email address open for a period to enable a smooth transition.
We are really looking forward to this exciting phase in our development and see it as a positive move for a successful association which will continue to offer opportunities for members wherever they live in the world.
Look out for our two exhibitions for 2022, "Botanical Showcase" opens in May and "Beauty in the Detail" opens in November.
All our very best to all our followers and please stay safe in these troubled times.
Elaine Allison
President
The Association of Botanical Artists