The Old School House was built in Victorian times and served
the Borough of Oldbury as a primary school. When we discovered
the school in 1999, it was disused and in a very poor state
of repair. We realised that this building had great potential
to become our new headquarters but the costs of purchase and
restoration appeared daunting.
A
number of members invested in its purchase, with the Society
purchasing shares. Donations from friends from around the
UK helped complete the restoration work.
Externally
we maintained the character of our Victorian school for future
generations to appreciate, whilst inside we created the rooms
and facilities we all enjoy today. |
The main room is our lecture theatre, with comfortable seating
for in excess of 100 members, most chairs having a writing
table for the taking of notes. The surrounding walls are covered
with exhibition boards that continuingly display some of the
best UK photography. A large stage makes sure that all members
can see the visiting speaker. To enable people at the rear
of the room to see a print lecture, we film the prints and
beam them onto a large screen. We also have the facility to
digitally project audio-visuals, as well as digital exhibition
acceptances using the latest digital technology. For the film
user we have a full slide AV and sound system installed.
Alongside
the lecture theatre is a large lounge with licensed bar, where
members meet socially before and after the evening’s
event. The lounge is also fitted out with exhibition boards
that showcase visiting exhibitions, such as those from the
Royal Photographic Society, the London Salon, Midphot and
Mirage. |
We
have a fully equipped studio for portrait and still life work.
This room is also fitted with exhibition boards, in order
to double up as an additional exhibition room.
Our
fully fitted dark room houses several enlargers. Here members
can produce prints under instruction or use the facilities
to work independently.
Our
kitchens and catering team are very experienced in providing
cooked lunches for those attending weekend workshops or seminars.
All
our facilities and rooms can be accessed with ease by those
with impeded mobility.
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