Helen’s Courtyard at Susquehanna Art Museum
A new gathering space will provide room for artsy events.
The Susquehanna Art Museum unveiled a portion of Helen’s Courtyard on June 25, marking a major step in expanding its community programming.
Located outside the museum’s Education Center, the 3,000 square foot space will be a flexible venue for art classes, school programs and receptions.
According to Capitol Region Water, which is completing the construction, they will have the courtyard fully completed by July 31.
In addition to the courtyard, the museum recently updated its exterior signage.
The museum currently provides Pennsylvania STEAM Academy students with museum-based art education, including abstract collages, prospective drawings, and classes related to the museum’s exhibitions. The new courtyard will expand opportunities for these programs while creating additional space for community events.
Executive Director Alice Anne Schwab emphasized the importance of creating a welcoming space for the community.
“An open area feels more like an invitation, and our number one goal is to be community-friendly and always cognizant of the entire community, not just museum members,” said Schwab.
According to Schwab, the idea for the courtyard occurred during the COVID pandemic in October 2020. Carol DeSoto, a new board member at the time, supported the project and made the first donation up front. The museum then collaborated with the hydrogeology company K&W Engineers to create a multipurpose space that would provide the most flexibility for different events.
The museum offered the naming rights to DeSoto, but she declined to name the space after herself. Instead, she chose to honor her late mother, Helen, who was heavily involved in Harrisburg’s cultural community.
One of the first major events to be held in Helen’s Courtyard will be Coffee and Art on Sept. 26 at noon. Visitors will be encouraged to experience the museum while enjoying food trucks, beer, wine, coffee and other activities for adults.
The Susquehanna Art Museum is located at 1401 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg. For more information, visit their website.
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