The merry month of May is so far done, it is just waiting for the final rinse cycle—it took so long that it’s already June!
To recap it, it may take a novella to sum it all up. 3rd in the Burg came and went on the 15th, and two days later, I turned 75, a milestone for me! My celebration usually coincides with the International Juried Art Show at the Art Association of Harrisburg, which marked its 98th edition. Awards were just presented last night, so we stopped the presses at TheBurg to include its illustrious winners. But wait…you’ll need to read through to the end as we cut to a commercial break, dim the lights. Gamut Theatre’s 33rd Annual Free Shakespeare in the Park opens June 5 with “As You Like It.”
Art included in “American Identity.” Image courtesy of Susquehanna Art Museum.
A Love Letter to The Susquehanna @ SAM
In a day and age where little of value is regarded as precious, an art exhibit like no other winds its way to the prestigious Susquehanna Art Museum. It is truly fitting as its focus features our own waterway of wonder, the Susquehanna River. “American Identity: Restoring the Susquehanna’s Artistic Legacy” is setting attendance records with one more glorious month left to view it before it closes on June 28. Collector/Curator Rob Evans and the museum’s Director of Exhibitions, Rachel O’Connor, have mounted a show that is a love letter to the Susquehanna’s beauty…one that has inspired artists for four centuries. The exhibit and its subject matter are worthy of a Ken Burns documentary. It incorporates history, geography, literature, artifacts, ephemera, and most certainly all the branches of art. This exhibit will be remembered, revered, and resonate in the years to come with people discussing its impact and beauty in hushed tones. If you only see one exhibit this year, this is the one to see.
At The Top of Her Game: A Tribute to Contrena Baltimore, President of The Civic Club of Harrisburg
When being president today can come with its own playbook, one gives pause and reverently bows their head in thanks when a civic leader rooted in faith and guidance from above lays all the credit at His feet. Contrena Baltimore, president of The Civic Club since June 2022, has served two terms and is now ready to retire.
Contrena Baltimore
During her tenure, the list of initiatives and programs Contrena instituted has created a close-knit team of leaders who have stepped up to make the Civic Club all that it once was and even more, surpassing the mission statement from its humble beginning in 1898. Contrena is quick to give praise to Dena Jangdhari, who was her right-hand aide-de-camp. Contrena shared that, “change, real change is bigger than us.” Every day presents new challenges, but together unified as one body, all can be overcome and Change with a capital C is accomplished.
Proudly, she highlighted the United Arts Council with its stellar board of consultants at the fore, artists all with a laser-sharp focus. She credits the Advisory Council for the Arts, which includes members Reina 76, James and Claire Berlus, Donovan Bailey, Maya Calderwood, Gabriela Gonzales, Kita P and Mohsen Matter. Contrena credits God for all the Civic Club’s growth, showcasing the 2nd Annual Black History in the Arts Events as well as other series illustrating the crucial role women have played during the course of the club’s storied history. She goes on to commend the contributions made by artist Shaun Rae, Rafiyqa Muhammed, and Alex Stilliker for deep and meaningful dialogues. Contrena is the first to acknowledge and thank the tremendous work provided by a “dedicated Board, the vision of our Art Council, and the unwavering support of our members and community partners.”
“To have made history in 2022 as the first African American president is not something I hold as my own, but as a moment divinely appointed. One that reminds me that sometimes we are called to turn the page, so that others may finally see themselves written into the story,” Contrena said. “I stand in awe that God would entrust me with such a calling, and even more humbled knowing that every step forward was taken hand in hand with this community. Together we have shaped more than programs…we have shaped experiences.”
Soon, the torch will be passed to Merry-Grace Majors, the incoming president. Contrena’s closing thoughts serve as a reminder that hope is at the center of it all. “I have a heart full…filled of gratitude, full of faith, and belief knowing the best is yet to come.”
Vivi’s Annual Rites of Spring
When my art journey for TheBurg began, the second blog I wrote was about potter and painter Vivi Sterste, who is as close to Mother Earth as one can get. Eight years ago, I met Vivi, who puts the V in Verbeke Street (where her shop is located), and her partner Jackson Jeb Boyd, photographer personified. In recent years, the painterly side of Vivi has graced the canvas with sure signs of spring. The gorgeous redbud trees that blossom like clockwork near one of Harrisburg’s oldest landmarks, the Broad Street Market, as well as the trees lining State Street leading to the capitol provide all the inspiration that Vivi anticipates annually.
Painting by Vivi Sterste
Recently, I lucked into viewing the video for behind-the-scenes operations of the pottery lab and studio at 258 Verbeke St., housed in the basement. Beyond the creative space, it serves as an art classroom with a potter’s wheel and kiln close at hand. Undeniably, Vivi shared, “That is where the magic happens.” An avid gardener, spring and summer hold a special meaning for her. The lure of the farm show’s weekly market calls to her from May through November, creating colorful still lifes from those treasures found in nature. Her partner Jeb is usually out on assignment, taking powerful photographs of bridges, railroads, and architecture, primarily working in black and white as the subject matter fits the choice dramatically. The beauty of B&W photography is its ability to tell a story with one shot, as the emphasis falls on shadow and light. Jeb Boyd deftly leaves his mark in every frame. Together, this couple is worth meeting and revisiting every chance you get. And now Vivi can add one more “P” to her resume for poet. The following excerpt is dedicated to Jeb of a friendship that has known no bounds for 55 years. “Blissful wakening between the layers of gray clouds…unknowingly natural sights brought on by Spring, again.”
Millworks Artist’s Menu for Spring and Summer
Emily Zebel
Meet the new artist Emily Zebel of Millworks studio #214, who is a real “straight shooter.” Her oil paintings depict everything from a boundless love of animals, the mythology of the West, Native American legend and lore, and the reverence for nature’s gifts executed to perfection with oil paints and brush. Skilled and spiritual in a way of life that once ruled the Plains. Emily’s life as an artist encompasses shape shifting, taking on the lives of her spirit animals: wolf, coyote, raven, bear and horse. Her philosophy reflects a “deep curiosity about the natural world and our place within it.” The paintings come to life, transporting the viewer to mise-en-scene in the rapturous land of campfires, sleeping under the stars, and becoming one with the wind. Each time Emily creates a painting, she inhabits the otherworldly creatures with their own tales to tell. She leaves it all on the canvas. A multidisciplinary artist, her work spans film, photography, narrative, and painting. Emily calls the Bloomsburg area home.
Moving into Millworks studio #322, Kat Dreibilbis is the cat’s meow! Self-taught, this local feline phenom is all about color, fun and story. With those three, it is hard to miss the playfulness in her watercolors or pen and ink, as well as acrylics and graphite pencils. And don’t forget the oils. Kat is also exploring the art of sculpting “as the mood takes her.” She covers a lot of ground and categorically cannot be caged in- “Black Kat Luck” is the name on her card and on the canvas. On a personal note, Kat resides in Duncannon with her husband and two mischievous cats. Feel free to cross her path at studio #322- after all, Kats have nine lives.
Kat Dreibilbis
Millworks Summer Shows
Rachelle Lowe, Judy Kelly, Richard Souders, Pat Frese, Marina Radanovic, John Davis and Kat Dreibilbis—now through June 14 on the main lobby wall. Emily Zebel, Olivia Jean, Jemar Sweets, Steve Barber, Annika Koser and Julie Iaria—June 15 through July 12.
Art by Andrea Finch
AAH Award Winners
The moment you have been waiting for…the envelope, please. Now for the winners of the 98th International Juried Art Show at the Art Association of Harrisburg. First place winners are Susan Benigni-Landis, Jessie Waite, Aubrey Maurer, Anni Matsick, Dana Sink and Michael Hower. Second place winners feature Zoe Shelby, Angela Tong, Harold Zabady, Greg Rohrer, Mary Eileen Carson and Michael Dugger. And Best of Show goes to Andrea Finch. Congratulations to all the winners-you are now international stars!
June Art Events:
“Birdie Told Me”
Joan Maguire is the bird on the wire overlooking Hershey Art Gallery and Gifts located at 1077 Swatara Rd. in Hershey. Having just returned from four months in Cuba she is chirping about the reopening for summer of her newly renovated gallery and studio. It will feature international art, and word is the menu of art will leave you quite satisfied with a collection fit for every grad, dad and art lover. From original paintings, prints, cards, jewelry and more, Joan has it in store!! Circle June 5, 6 and 7 on your calendar and drop in from noon to 4:30 p.m. to celebrate any occasion.
Before or after, drop in at one of our favorite Hershey restaurants for brunch or lunch all close to the Gallery. I recommend Stacks, Savory Cafe, and First Watch.
Where Do All the Artists Meet?
The 13th just may be your lucky day (in June that is). Announcing Camp Hill’s Annual PLEIN AIR art day on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Stroll the Market Street Boulevard for a day of art, music, shopping, and “sipping and supping.” You, yes, you, and the entire community are invited. Meet the artists, clean their brushes, buy them an espresso-you get the “picture,” but only if you buy one. THE ART IN THE OUTDOOR’S GANG will be there. Look for Donna Barlup, Lina Ferraro, Julie Riker, Susan Benigni-Landis, Jonathan Frazier and Paul Nagle.
3rd in The Burg, June 19
A SPECIAL CELEBRATION for JUNETEENTH
Taste of Black Harrisburg Cultural Food Festival & Block Party
A special shoutout to Ted Walke whose Gallery at Second (606 N. 2nd St.) reopened for 3rd in The Burgs through the fall. Ted is the owner and proprietor of a hidden gem in Harrisburg. Gallery at 2nd is world class in its presentation and could be found in major metropolitan cities. Think San Francisco, New York City, Los Angelas and Miami. Not only is the art amazing, but Ted is also a veritable wealth of art knowledge. After shopping the gallery stop next door to enjoy great food and a drink at Men in the Kitchen.
If you like what we do, please support our work. Become a Friend of TheBurg!
