The Peninsula Arts Society was established in 1954 by a group of professional artists, which included painters, writers, architects, sculptors and authors. The early aims were for professional artists to become members, to hold meetings to discuss 'the arts', to help the community and to become a society with cultural interests.
The founding members consisted of many well known names including painters, Daryl Lindsay, John Rowell, Owen Piggot, Harry and Nan McClelland; architect, Roy Grounds; sculptor, Raymond Ewers; and writers, Neville Shute, Bertha Bennett and Myra Morris. Daryl Lindsay and Raymond Ewers were patrons of the society for many years.
Initial meetings were held in 'the Barn' at Palm Court Frankston - the home of Harry and Nan McClelland. Classes for beginners were held there for a short time before renting the first floor of the Pier Hotel.
A number of different locations were occupied, until after 30 years of fundraising the Society eventually purchased a property in Overton Road Frankston. After 8 years these premises proved too small to accommodate the increasing membership in classes and the Society was offered its current site in Overport Park by the Frankston Council at a small rent. A new gallery/studio was erected in 1988, again solely with funds raised by members. In 2000 and 2008 additional studio and other facilities were added. Membership has now grown from the initial 65 members to over 550.
The Peninsula Arts Society is proud of its position in local history as the original art society in Frankston. It continues to flourish and prosper through the keen involvement of its many members in its numerous activities and its vital interest in the visual arts scene.
