04/06/2026
Portrait of an alderman
THE principal of the Hampstead School of Art has recalled the live portrait painting session of Flick Rea, the alderman who died last week at 88. Camden New Journal has been inundated with tributes since reporting the passing of the long-serving Liberal Democrat councillor - and we have a whole page of readers contributions on our website.
Isabel H Langtry, at Hampstead School of Art sent through the portrait by Valerie Wiffen which she posed for in front of an audience in 2017. Flick Rea at the HSoA in 2017 and Ms Wiffen’s portrait
“I am unbelievably sad about Flick’s death. She was a mentor, adviser, encourager and font of knowledge,” Ms Langtry said. “She was also fun, witty and philosophical.
27/05/2026
Sir Michael Palin to Open Hampstead Summer Festival 2026! The art schools biggest fundraiser of the year!! The volunteer organisers of the Hampstead Summer Festival are delighted to announce that Sir Michael Palin will officially open this year’s Festival at the opening event, the Art Fair in the Gardens of Keats House, Keats Community Library, on Saturday 21 June at 1pm.
Sir Michael will cut the ceremonial ribbon before touring the Fair and selecting a prize-winning piece from the collection of paintings, ceramics and sculptures on display.
The Art Fair will showcase work for sale by talented local and national artists and students from the Hampstead School of Art, alongside craft stalls, food and wine stands, and family-friendly activities. Children attending the event will also have the opportunity to decorate their own bags at a special activity table. Entry to the Art Fair is free.
Els Bauer, Chair of the Festival Committee, said:
“We are delighted that Sir Michael is coming to open the Fair for us. He is a Patron of Keats Community Library, one of our beneficiary charities. We feel very lucky to have such a loved and admired person living here - he is so generous with his time in supporting charities and community events.”
Sir Michael Palin, one of Britain’s most beloved writers, broadcasters and performers, has long been associated with the Hampstead community and remains a passionate supporter of local cultural and charitable initiatives.
