In 1942, a group of volunteers in North West London contributing to the British war effort decided to create an art legacy.

Headed by Joseph Parker Robinson, the drawing enthusiasts banded together to form the Pinner North Civil Defence Sketch Club, allowing them to revel in their hobby as a group.

It has come a long way since the end of the Second World War, changing its name to Pinner Sketch Club (PSC) to cover its expansion and growing to, at present, 120 members.

Artists, professional and amateur alike, have soaked up what it has to offer, from workshops, to exhibitions, to social occasions.

“What people have to realise is that there is a lot of variety. It’s called a sketch club but it covers all art,” says member Jeremy Deacon.

“Plus we have things like lectures, outdoor painting classes and so on; there’s something for everyone to get involved in.”

Now, to celebrate 75 years of existence, the club is gearing up for a special summer exhibition – a “large scale project” involving around 200 pieces.

Professional artist Marcia Kuperberg is one of those showcasing her work, putting forward a mixed media image entitled Seahorse.

Marcia said she enjoys being part of PSC, since, among other things, it regularly provides her with the inspiration to explore new techniques.

“I love everything about it. You have the weekly workshops, artists’ demonstrations, painting ‘en plein air’ in the summer and then there’s the general camaraderie,” she explains.

The club has gone from strength to strength over the years, with several of its members receiving prizes and awards.

As a collective, it was invited as one of only ten art societies to this year’s Patchings Festival in Nottingham, where it displayed a representative range of its work.

Plus, despite having a relatively wide age range, it is always looking to encourage younger people in and around Pinner to get involved and showcase their artistic talents.

For now, PSC is turning the spotlight on its decorated history of 75 years and its role in providing the community with an outlet for art.

And while its members might not go on to experience the fame and recognition of Hopper and Nighthawks, it is, as Jeremy notes, “part of the heritage of Pinner”.

The showcase runs from August 12 to 26 at Pinner Parish Church Hall, in Church Lane. Admission is free, and attendees will have the opportunity to vote for their favourite pieces of art in a ‘People’s Choice’ award.

Details: pinnersketchclub.com