Viewing page 348 of 500

This transcription has been completed. Contact us with corrections.

The National Society of the Fine Arts is now entering upon its fifth season. Since its organization, in March, 1905, it has done much to promote the interest in art by conducting courses of lectures for its members and for the general public, by holding exhibitions and assisting other organizations in setting forth exhibitions; by exerting its influence to secure better legislation in regard to matters pertaining to fine arts in general, and to the beautifying of Washington in particular. It has been directly instrumental in the formation of a League for the Decoration of the Public Schools of the District of Columbia, and, furthermore, it has, through its activities during the past two years, brought about the foundation of the American Federation of Arts--an institution of national scope and great possibilities. Organized in Washington in May last, this Federation already numbers 60 non-commercial art organizations, and over 600 individuals, representing nearly every State in the Union. Owing to the organization of this Federation, which now becomes the representative national art organization, the National Society of the Fine Arts necessarily takes it place as a local body. This change in the status of the Society will, it is believed, through the concentration of its efforts upon a more limited range of problems, tend to increase rather than diminish its influence. The scope will yet remain amply comprehensive. The National Capital is the common possession of all the people, and should stand in art 
[[end page]]
[[start page]]
as in other matters of culture an example to the Nation. The work of the Society should be so directed and so energetically prosecuted as to justify the expectation now often expressed that Washington is to become the art center of America. A first great end to be sought is the awakening of public sentiment with respect to the artistic shortcomings of Washington, and to the means and measures necessary to their correction. An enthusiastic working membership is a prime necessity in the accomplishment of these ends.
At the first meeting of the season, November 17th, the following amendments to the constitution and by-laws of the Society will be offered:
(1) To change the name of the Society from "The National Society of the Fine Arts" to "The Washington Society of Fine Arts"; and
(2) To limit the membership to 500.
Ten meetings for members will be held during the season in available halls and in the residences of members, and a course of five public lectures will be given at the Public Library. At least two of the former series will be devoted to social matters, to the discussion of various subjects within the scope of the Society's activities, and to exhibitions of art works.

The lectures for the season, so far as arranged, are as follows: