Tag Archives: Millworks

Bob’s Art Blog: May June Begin?

May 30, 2026 | by Bob MacGinnes

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.

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Bob’s Art Blog: Arts Spring To-Do List—Millworks, the AAH and the JNS Gallery and CALC

April 14, 2026 | by Bob MacGinnes

Set the clock back to Saturday, Jan. 3 at Millworks Art Studios. A call from its creative director, Tara Chickey, was put out to the new group of artists who had joined the established order during the past year.

A shiny trio of very engaged artists excitedly answered, forming “The New Guard.” These hearty musketeers were eager to share their passion for art across radically different mediums.

There was a genuine camaraderie between them…that has always been the glue that holds the Millworks’ artists together.

Annika Koser

Annika Koser’s racecar wall

Annika Koser, acrylic painter, showed up early—that translates to committed, which is a sure sign that she will be successful at what she does. Annika is that and more: “Gentlemen start your engines!” One can almost smell the burning rubber at the Talladega raceway. When viewing her all-too-realistic paintings of fast cars, pit crews, and legendary drivers, she holds the inside track with her amazing lifelike art. Her paintings are featured and sold out of the National Sprint Car Hall of Fame and Museum in Knoxville, Iowa.

Racecar enthusiasts and fans worldwide hold a deep appreciation for the photorealistic elements of her work. including her rapt attention to detail. It speaks to her personal love for motor sports, having worked at her local track for over a decade. April marked Annika’s one-year anniversary at Millworks in Studio 213. “She has a fast car.”

Jeff Scorza

Found objects artisan, Jeff Scorza, can be found at his namesake studio, Scorza, in #215 on the Millworks’ second floor. Plying his trade as a sculptor working with glass, wood, and metal keeps him on the cutting edge of art.

Having labored professionally as a much-in-demand architect for 30 years, he kept his nose to the grindstone. A true Renaissance man, Jeff gladly traded in his T-squares and scale rulers for a chance to literally dive into the sandbox face first to create a mold for his glass portraits.

His aesthetic captures a unique take on “what yonder light breaks” as it passes through glass. An alchemist of pure imagination, he is enchanted in giving discarded materials repurposed, beautiful objet’s d’ art, choosing “feeling over function”…with the finished work emoting instead of engineering.

The artist revealed, “I pretend I don’t know what glass is…but I know what everything else is and I find ways to connect these things—to hold glass up to the light and let the light enliven it.”

Kelly Anoka

Kelly Anoka (aka Kell’s Woods) can be found in Millworks studio #211, doing far more than “turning wood.”

Her process begins with a tree and what about it draws her to the romantic notion of showcasing its natural beauty. In other words, she finds a way to articulate its very best attributes. “Always in touch with the symmetry of the wood, a ritualistic dance between artist and object unfolds, leaving no doubt when the finished piece takes its bow,” shared Kelly.

Sublime, surreal and even sensuous are but a few superlatives that come to mind. Kelly confided that, “Wood, albeit trees, speak in a language all their own. Movement and meaning are forever linked; the limbs, branches, and trunk all bring something different to the dance.

I have been a self-taught wood worker since 2018…creating functional pieces that showcase natural beauty and flaws through the design of the piece. Sourcing upcycled local wood, I am able to extend the life and the gift that trees bring for generations to come.” From the requisite tables and chairs to smaller objects, like a hand-turned wood pumpkin or even a pocketbook appointed with accents of wood, help to create delightful surprises.

Marina Radanovic

Narrative artist Marina Radanovic is the latest addition to the Millworks art studios, arriving in number 318, sharing that space with the legendary Huckle Buckle Boys, artists from their own solar system.

By all indications, Marina’s story art will complement their ersatz energy. Zach and Garrick (HBB) invented their own genre with their “characters,” demanding the viewer has a pretty good idea of what is going on in the frame. Marina, by her own account, revealed “I feel blessed to now be working alongside two awesome artists in a beautiful inclusive venue.

I look forward to having a more permanent stage for my work where I don’t have to set up a campsite to show it.” Holding a BFA degree from California University of Pennsylvania, she is a self-taught creative who has found her own lane, often driving down the middle, able to navigate the “complexities of human existence through fanciful visual aesthetics or crossing over to methodical, earnest oil paintings using techniques from the Old Masters.”

Her acrylic pieces are often painted on the spot live and in person at concerts and festivals. Her works have been featured throughout PA and Washington, D.C. A timely welcome to Millworks, “Radanovic, artist”—and a happy 30th birthday this week, Marina!

Millworks’ April Events
Millworks’ Roster of Artists, April 13 to May 10, featured on the lobby walls: Linda McCloskey, Rexmake, Rebecca Adey, Kirstin Livelsberger, Caleb Smith, Kathy Mina, and Yachiyo Beck.

Odd Ones annual Spring Bizarre, Saturday, April 25, featuring an array of 38 artists and makers, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Bring the family for a day of fun and food.

The AAH, Vivid Experiences: The Art of Steve Barber and Earle Rock

Bob’s Art Blog welcomes Alanna Barton, the new director of exhibitions at the now century-old Art Association of Harrisburg, mounting her first show in the role.

The art of Steve Barber is bombastic in his abstract expressionist paintings. Joined by sculptor/painter, Earle Rock—the name says it all—solid as a you know what. Steve Barber can usually be found hanging out at Millworks studio 213.

He recently shared, “With a goal of painting with my design sense, imagination and spiritual mindset letting my skill not dictate with the actual creation is.”

Based in Hummelstown, Earle Rock “specializes in portrait busts, commemorative reliefs and oil paintings.” Often Earle holds workshops at the AAH. The Artemis II crew have nothing on this dynamic duo from another galaxy, another place in time, from the inner recesses of your mind to the outer limits of imagination; do not touch that dial!

You will see before you bursts of color explode. You are weightless, boundless and mindless as you view their world of “Vivid Experiences.” You have now arrived at 21 N. Front St., earthlings, just in time for the April 17 artist reception from 5 to 8 p.m. Trip the light fantastic with music provided by the Elaine Rhodes Jazz duo. PS, I know, I love that “mindless” part the best too!

West Shore: Carlisle Central

The Gallery at JNStudios to Carlisle Arts Learning Center (CALC), from 175 E. Louther St. to 38 W. Pomfret St., Carlisle, is abuzz with art for spring bursting forth everywhere, including the students’ show soon to be featured at the Trout Gallery found on the Dickinson campus.

Now in her second year, Gallerist Jennifer Neslund has claimed her stake at her East Louther Art Emporium. Opening with a stunner of a spring show: “The Poetic Gossip of Trees” by local artist Kathleen Stoken. Employing personification gives the trees human characteristics as if they could actually gossip among themselves. Reminiscent of the Civil War song, “Eavesdrop,” the elements of nature allow to let the stars watch, let them stare, let the wind eavesdrop, I don’t care.”

“The Poetic Gossip of Trees” by Kathleen Stoken

There is something otherworldly in a grove of trees lining a path to somewhere or nowhere, whispering as the wind rustles the branches.

The result may be a hushed confession acknowledging that, no matter the already known outcome, there is a momentary closeness in the exchange of emotions and physical touch. Kathleen exacts an imaginary dialogue when trees take on a life of their own. Exhibit runs April 18 to May 23 with an artist reception from 6 to 8 p.m. on April 18. Gallery hours are Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sundays, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The Carlisle Arts Leaning Center (CALC)

CALC echoes the energy of “E,” going from “Vivid Experiences” on the East Shore to “Expressions in Fiber and Form” at the GB Stuart Gallery main floor. The new broom at CALC has swept the place clean for spring under the new leadership of executive director Emily Ashton and the steady hand of director of exhibitions, Abria Donato.

A trio of fiber fabricators find form in flowers, seedlings and landscape tapestries. These artists are Miki Howell, who executes landscape tapestries provides a bountiful crop, Joh Ricci, a fiber sculptor who creates intricate knot work that defies typical conventions, and Beth Reese, who combines collage and traditional quilting, resulting in one-of-a-kind wall hangings.

In the upper gallery, three sisters explore family and memory in the exhibit, “Lineage.” Andrea Hoelscher, Erica Hoelscher and Kristin Hoelscher-Schacker sound like a crack team of legal experts, when in fact, they excel at their crafts using photography, found objects and textile installations created after the loss of their parents.

Art has a transcendent nature of being able to soothe and sort the emotional travails of grief and loss. Join CALC and the artists for the opening night reception on Friday, April 24, 5:30 to 8 p.m. Both exhibits run through May 30.

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The Week that Was: News and features around Harrisburg

March 7, 2025 | by Lawrance Binda and Maddie Gittens

Harrisburg City Council at a meeting this week.

Another week has come and gone in Harrisburg. We’ve been here to cover all of the news that impacts our community. Find our reporting, below.

City Council this week weighed the possibility of Harrisburg allocating money to assist the beleaguered Residences at Governor’s Square affordable housing complex, our online story reported. The money would help a court-appointed receiver begin work to bring the bankrupt development into code compliance.

Gamut Theatre Group presents “Frankenstein” this month, our magazine story reported. The play, an adaptation by Nick Dear based on the novel by Mary Shelley, explores humanity’s capacity for good and evil.

A Harrisburg homeless encampment has begun to face the impacts of PennDOT’s I-83 construction project nearby, our online story reported. However, encampment occupants shared that they have received no information from the city on what will happen to them long-term.

Harrisburg Mayor Wanda Williams held a press conference on Friday to respond to a recent article that included information on a federal lawsuit against her, our online story reported. A former city employee accused Williams of unfair management practices, claims that Williams said were “baseless.”

Live music is in full swing in the Harrisburg area this month, whether you’re looking for Celtic-inspired music for the holiday or any other genre. Our columnist makes her recommendations, here.

McGrath’s Irish Pub is gearing up for St. Patrick’s Day and shares some of its special and most popular drinks, in our Bartender’s Choice column.

Millworks is celebrating its 10^th anniversary as an arts and restaurant hub in Harrisburg. In our magazine story, find out more about the history of the Millworks and what it means to artists and the community at large.

Our publisher discusses local historic properties and the need to restore them, in his publisher’s note. He highlights the Historic Harrisburg Association as one of our city’s nonprofits, which we feature many of in our March issue of the magazine.

Roller skating is open to the community this month on City Island, our online story reported. Harrisburg is offering skating in the island’s carousel pavilion near FNB Field as a way to test out new initiatives to better use the island.

Sara Bozich has found all of this weekend’s happenings and listed them all for you, here.

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Bob’s Art Blog: Salons d’ Art Fois Deux and Third in the Burg on the Town

February 17, 2025 | by Bob MacGinnes

Iquan Summers, Darius Levine Davis, Leon Laing, Larry Washington Jr., Bryan King Prolifik,
Dionn Reneé, Julia Mallory, Marion Toro, Reina 76 Artist, Steve Barber, Mohsen Matter, Donny Lyons

Artists of Color Make History

February is dedicated to Black History Month and, in Harrisburg, an exciting chapter has begun for a group of 15 artists of color. The new year had barely started when on a snowy night this Jan. 3, the headquarters of Sprocket Mural Works was the backdrop for a historic moment in Harrisburg’s Black history. It marked the occasion of the first art salon. A dozen artists were assembled by art ambassador Reina R76 and Meg Caruso, executive director of Sprocket, for a photo shoot. The flock of talent found Bryan “King Prolifik” Hickman holding court with Steve Barber, Leon Laing, Julia Mallory, Dionn Renee, Marion N. Toro, Larry Washington, Jr., Donnie Lyons, Mohsen Matter, Darius Davis and Iquan Summers. In addition, Michelle Green, Kourtney Angelina Thompson, and Jemar Sweets are part of the circle but had other commitments. Normally the photo shoot would have been the pinnacle of the night. However, what took place before was truly transcendent.

In a living room setting, mirroring the Paris art salons of the 1920s, Sprocket’s spacious layout was perfectly suited with sofas and chairs ideal for conversation, informal yet intimate. Serving as the night’s moderator, Megan suggested introductions all around as I thanked the group for coming together on this auspicious night as a community of artists. The photo was for a special article in February’s issue dedicated to the arts and Black culture for TheBurg. Forming a closely knit circle, one by one, they shared their stories and journeys of how they arrived there from the winding road of art creation. Over the next hour, tales were revealed—how obstacles became opportunities, and how rejection forged resilience and reward. When the dozen uniquely diverse sagas were completed, it dawned on me that a historic moment had taken place that night—the very first art salon of Harrisburg-Artists of Color. Everyone present was elevated in the evening’s exchange filled with camaraderie and support for each other’s passion to create. It is yet to be determined as February continues to unfold and word gets out, will that early January get-together be the spark to flame the future of Black artists in the city and what form will it take? United they stand…a page in the history of Harrisburg, or a preamble to prominence in the public realm?

Eve Tiday and Creative Minds (Art Salon 2.0)

Eve Tiday & Creative Minds may sound like the latest garage band from Silicon Valley, but is in reality a Millworks vehicle steered by its founder, Eve Tiday, the think-tank guru moderating a group of artists and creatives. Operating under the radar since June of last year, this monthly get-together discusses everything from, of course, art to literature, film, writing, music composition and sundry other topics in a question-led format. Life is full of surprises. P.D. Murray, ex-pat Millworks artist, had shared with me that Eve Tiday was the real deal, and she is. Her age belies her worldly insight, young with a light inside that immediately strikes you as precocious and full of moxie.

Art by Eve Tiday

“Being a digital painter was one of few choices coming out of art school,” Eve shared. Long story short, instead of using paints, pixels are the secret ingredient in her art. Limited edition giclee original digital artworks on archival paper are the end result of an extremely complicated process. They are stunningly photographic in nature.

As for the “Creative Minds,” hers is one of about a dozen or so with an ever-changing core group stemming mostly from Millworks Studios. The group started out of a conversation with fellow artist, Elaine Elledge, a second-floor mate in Studio 212 to Eve and Marjorie Taylor’s Studio 214. Anyone who has ever created any type of art form knows traveling that road can be a lonely journey. Together in conversation, they shared, “Wouldn’t it be therapeutic to be able to discuss those feelings with fellow artists?” Out of that came a melting pot, albeit a small one, of friends who shared similar, like-minded experiences and views. The key to its success is maintaining its less-is-more approach. Eve pointed to the need for “everyone to have a voice, and thanks to its size, there is a joie-de-vivre that is truly genuine and meaningful.” The sense of empowerment gained flourishes out of the support of other members in a safe, public forum able to formulate ideas without any fear of judgement or rejection.

Over its first eight months, the number of attendees fluctuated in size and personalities as friends told friends, “This is good stuff”. A true sense of community is the best byproduct of the gatherings. Eve is only too happy to share their experience with others who may want to start their own group. Contact her at [email protected].

As the new year unfolded on the local art scene, these two art salons have surfaced. Both groups are unique and finding their way. It will be an interesting journey to see what the coming months hold in store for them.

On the Town for 3rd in the Burg

“Black History in the Arts” at the Civic Club of Harrisburg

Civic Club President, Contrena Baltimore and Director of Event Operations Dena Jangdhari proudly announce an evening of “Black History in the Arts,” a symposium of discourse, performance and poetry celebrating the rich and diverse diaspora of Black culture. It will take place at the Civic Club of Harrisburg, 612 N. Front St., for 3rd in the Burg from 6 to 8 p.m. The esteemed Rev. Eric Jackson will be the keynote speaker for the event and award-winning poet Maria James-Thiaw will pay tribute to Black history and its role in the arts. Featured travel photographer, Jemar Sweets of Millworks, will lead a discussion of his work. This memorable evening will be capped off by vibrant live performances showcasing artistic contributions to the community across mediums. A panel discussion of the Civic Club’s Art Unites The World Advisory Council will take place. This prestigious assembly includes Reina R76, Bryan “King Prolifik” Hickman, Mohsen Matter, Jemar Sweets and James Berlus. The event is free and open to the public.

“Trinity to Infinity” at the Art Association of Harrisburg

Art Association of Harrisburg

A trio of artists will decamp at the Art Association of Harrisburg starting this Friday, Feb. 21 for its opening night reception from 5 to 8 p.m. and will run through March 25, highlighting tangible products of their efforts. The exhibit “Trinity to Infinity: Creative Expressions,” showcases their diverse talents, as chimerical ceramist Brian Defrees is bookended by painter Thom Kulp, a mixed media artist who works mostly with acrylics, as well as Chet Davis, a modernist painter enchanted by the human form. The three combine forces in this sure-to-be blockbuster invitational exhibit.

Nate Foster, director of exhibitions, and Alanna Barton, newly appointed assistant curator, make up the team responsible for art shows at the association. “‘Trinity to Infinity,’ is our first invitational of the year featuring three Pennsylvania artists, each with their own mastery of mediums and storytelling ability,” shared Foster. Miss Barton added, “I am looking forward to assisting Nate in my role and see what our professional gamesmanship will bring to the walls.” Foster was equally expressive and shared insight regarding a new second-floor gallery called The Museum Room. With a wink, he said, “We are both happy to give tours of its interior as the treasures were donated to the AAH by a local collector.”

And as for the show, perhaps Thom Kulp put it so well in that the sum is greater than the individual parts, “from the visions of three artists to the infinite diverse expression of their creativity.” Buzz Lightyear may agree, “To infinity and beyond.” But that’s a whole other Story not to Toy with.

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Bob’s Art Blog: Holiday Art Outposts (A Gallery Gift Guide)

December 2, 2024 | by Bob MacGinnes

For that hard to buy for person on your holiday shopping list there is the exhilarating, often unexpected gift of a work of art. In some ways, it’s a roll of the dice but always more welcome than a fruitcake. Santa experiences the same rush of adrenaline every time he goes down the chimney, never knowing what’s waiting at the other end. To simplify your art search, here is a bag full of places, sampling galleries across central Pennsylvania. Support your local artists whenever possible. From Perry County to York, Lebanon, Lancaster, Carlisle, Boiling Springs, Camp Hill, Hershey and of course, Harrisburg.

Art at Perry County Council of the Arts

Headed north to Newport finds Perry County Council of the Arts bursting at the seams. On the square at 1 N. 2nd St., PCCA takes a wide-angle lens with its expansive holiday windows showcasing the range of giftware, from pottery to jewelry, sculptures and artisanal clothing. Erin Sparler, gallery manager, revealed “PCCA is home to over 170 artists. In addition, 200 hand-crafted items just arrived, perfect for that special someone. A holiday treat for the season is a series of ‘Unboxing’ videos online.” Special featured artist for December is Deborah Smith whose exhibit ‘Hand-hooked Wool Rugs’ is hung at the gallery from now through Jan. 8. Be sure to hitch up your reindeer to see the wonder of it all.

Checking in with the Lebanon elves, Melody and Eric, of Lebanon Picture Frame and Fine Art Gallery located at 847 Cumberland St., shared they are “celebrating 25 years in business anchoring a town known for its bologna that art plays a part at the very heart.” This Friday, Dec. 6 is the opening night reception, from 5 to 8 p.m., for First Friday in Lebanon. A half dozen local ceramic artists light up the kiln for “Fired Up! A Celebration of Wood Fired Ceramics and Friendship,” on view through Feb. 1. The gallery is a gem with its magical layout and visual tour-de-force inside with offerings from A to Z. It’s well worth the drive, especially on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays with the Lebanon Farmers Market open close by.

You would think it was still baseball season in York and Lancaster with double-header art venues close to each other. The White Rose City of York finds Venture Gallery holding court on the corner at 128 E. King St. with its levitating art. Susan, Karen and JoAnne await your arrival with your art requests, from jewelry to felted pieces, treasures of handbound books, and paintings. All one needs to do is Venture a guess and you will probably find it there. Next door at 126 E. King is Hive founded by the art queen bee herself, Susan Scofield. Excitement abounds as the buzz about town…holiday gifts start at $2; you read it right. The caveat, think of all the gifts you could buy at that price. And if there is any art from Alana Beall, that’s a deal, you should buy with zeal.

With gifts on your list, make a beeline to Hive.

The Red Rose City of Lancaster boasts two blockbuster galleries on Queen Street, one recently opened, The Lancaster Art Vault at 100 N. Queen, and one soon to close, EsoArts at 317. Lancaster Art Vault’s owner, Victoria Abadir brings a special insouciance to the art menu at her establishment. Lancaster’s new kid has a hip representation with a young vanguard of artists from points within Lancaster and beyond. Harrisburg transplant, Amie Bantz is featured through the end of the month and art icons like the Huckle Buckle Boys have shone their lineup of characters on its walls. It is fast becoming the go-to place to show and see art.

The phenomenon EsoArts shown as bright as Sirius for its two-year existence in Lancaster and will close its doors for good on Dec. 15. We wish them the best.

Headed to the capital, Harrisburg, the beltway to I-81-South lands us in Carlisle at the Carlisle Arts Learning Center for its annual Holiday Gift Gallery. They fill the entire downstairs floor with giftware, from paintings to ceramics to jewelry and more. Cathy Stone, executive director, promises the best selection to date. Artists from all over Cumberland County pulled out all the stops at 38 W. Pomfret St. for spectacular holiday shopping.

Village Artisans Gallery

From CALC to Boiling Springs is but a short jaunt to one of the pioneers of art galleries in our area and may very well be the gold standard by which all others are measured. Village Artisans Gallery found at 321 Walnut St. has been a landmark stop for 29 years, with its founder and curator owner, PJ Heyman, at the helm. She has passed the baton to the new owner and artist, Richelle Dourte, a jeweler of renown. The setting is unique, as it is housed in a church dating to 1875. Nationally “recognized as a treasury of American craft and artistry,” at the Village you will discover a plethora of artisanal crafts from artists across the United States. You will find blown glass, pottery, turned wood, wrought iron, hand-loomed apparel, jewelry and fine art. Ms. Dourte promises to continue the successful path that PJ forged for almost three decades and invites the public to meet her and see what new is in store.

Next stop…to 2010 Market St. in Camp Hill, Gallo’ry on Market. Its owner, Heather Ebersole showcases art filled to the brim and hand-picked with paintings galore. Featured artists for the month of December are Paul Gallo, Bob and Barb Buchanan, and Richell Castellon. When visiting the gallery be sure to view Ralph Hocker’s hand-painted stones and carved Santas. Arriving in New Cumberland at 190 Reno Ave., Smith Fine Art Gallery hears the patter of hooves on the roof meaning new art is coming down the chimney. Mallory Shelley, one of Debbie Smith’s elves shared, “A special delivery of paintings from Susan Getty and Lorenzo Ignacio have safely landed on easels for purchase.”

Art at Gallo’ry on Market

Four minutes across the river at 21 N Front St., one will find the art institution soon to celebrate its centennial—Art Association of Harrisburg. Carrie Wissler-Thomas, president, noted gallery sales manager, Nate Foster, has their sales alcove overflowing with prime choices to fit most budgets including a passel of Santas. Just up the street at 608 N 2nd where you will find Ted Walke’s Gallery at 2nd, you will need to schedule an appointment with Ted to view his two floors of surrealistic lowbrow art. Take a Walke on the wild side. Just a few blocks away, Ten Oh! Six Gallery and Studio finds owner/proprietor, Julia Mallory, with her studio stocked with gifts of art, books and more at 1006 N 3rd St.

Vivi on Verbeke

Vivi on Verbeke’s holiday window captures old-world charm with a nod to the whimsical, featuring an angel teddy bear front and center. New for the season are clay ornaments to “spruce” up the decor a notch…stars, gingerbread men and trees. This year’s theme is pure vintage, “How Will You Earn Your Wings?” Drop in for a step back in time and chat with Vivi and her partner, photographer, the irrepressible, Jackson Boyd. If you see a resemblance to Mr. and Mrs. Claus, you’re in the right neighborhood at 258 Verbeke.

Doors away at 340 Verbeke St., you will come upon Millworks and its gallery found on the lower level with “giftables” from all three dozen in-house artists.

Last, but certainly not least, we travel to Hershey. Hershey Gallery and Gifts is found at 1077 Swatara Rd., just two miles away from the Hershey Hotel. This holiday season celebrates its second year in style. Stunning watercolors by owner, Joan Maguire are the icing on the cake with artisanal soaps, bath salts, handcrafted wares, cards and jewelry that offer shoppers an array to choose from. A birdy told me, actually a partridge in a pear tree, that artist and soap maker, Jana MacGinnes, will be manning the gallery this Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. with some surprises in store. Now that is someone I would like to meet!

“It’s that special time of year, all bundled head to toe…let’s give art, get some back, the more you give the more you’ll have.” With my sincerest apologies, Mr. Bublé, there is nothing more delightful than to receive an unexpected gift of art at the holidays given with love or even better yet, to be the giver. The Painted Word for the Burg’s December issue highlights one of Santa’s workshops in Dillsburg. In fact, it’s Larry Lerew’s gallery that serves as the inspiration for this blog. Please support all the creatives that surround you no matter where you call home. Happy Holidays!

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The Gift of HBG: Our writer digs deep to craft a hyper-local gift guide

November 26, 2024 | by M. Diane McCormick

ModSew Designs

Deck the Burg with boughs of holly. If you’re looking for holiday presents that are uniquely Harrisburg, our exclusive gift guide takes you on a culinary, artistic and heartwarming tour of the region.

Fa-la-la-la-la

Did someone say, “Give the gift of music”?

Timeless tradition: Hard to believe, but Stuart Malina has been music director of the Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra since 2000. So, it’s the perfect time to make 2025 concerts part of your giving. Celebrations for this 25th season include Malina Madness 2.0, when the maestro himself conducts and plays the ever-popular “Rhapsody in Blue,” May 17 and 18. Christmas stockings around town are already pre-stuffed with tickets for the dazzling acrobatics of “Cirque Goes Broadway!” on May 3 and 4. www.harrisburgsymphony.org

Bearing gifts: Give your clubbing friend tix to H*MAC’s lineup of electronic dance music masters, including Bear Grillz (early Christmas present, Dec. 6) and HE$H (Jan. 18), a rising star in dubstep (yeah, I had to look it up. It’s a type of EDM.) www.harrisburgarts.com

Joyful sounds: Since 2019, proceeds from sales of “Joy to the Burg” CDs have had a real impact in sheltering and supporting the homeless of Harrisburg. The 2024 compilation brims with local musicians delivering the sacred and the silly. No Last Call marches to “The Dreidel Song.” Stars in Sapphire sings a haunting “Coventry Carol.” And Rick Pawelski and the Flying Matlocks strike a very Burg-y note with Pawelski’s “Party with Santa,” as he sings, “From the north to the south, the 717 is ready to party with Santa. We’re gonna give it our best on the east and the west shores of the Susquehanna.” The song evokes seeing old friends for the holidays, Pawelski told me. Plus, he said, “Once I figured out that Santa sorta rhymes with Susquehanna, I had something to work with.” www.joytotheburg.com

Star bright: Sankofa African American Theatre Co. presents “Black Nativity,” Langston Hughes’ retelling of the Nativity story through gospel arrangements of traditional carols and spirituals. Directed by the remarkable Sharia Benn, with music directed and arranged by Brian McGrady, “Black Nativity” shines new light on an ancient story, Dec. 6, 7 and 8. www.sankofatheatrehbg.com

Bless the Poor

Honor a loved one with a gift that makes a difference in your community.

To market, to market: With support of the community, the fire-damaged Broad Street Market hasn’t broken its streak as the nation’s oldest continuously operating farmers’ market. Gift a loved one with a Friends of the Broad Street Market membership, for early-bird access, discounts for BSM events such as the popular Paint & Sip, and, of course, a tote for filling with market produce, pretzels, deli meats, candy and doggie treats. www.broadstreetmarket.org/friends

All is calm: A gift to the YWCA Greater Harrisburg transforms lives. Maybe it’s the 4,100 women, children and families who receive crisis services each year, or the 1,000 individuals and veterans who get residential support. For the holidays, generous donors fill the YW wish list with linens and activities for kids, while they step up with gift cards for gas and groceries that go directly to YWCA clients working their way out of domestic violence and homelessness. www.ywcahbg.org

Tzedakah: With its move to the Alexander Grass Campus for Jewish Life, the Jewish Federation of Greater Harrisburg reaffirmed its commitment to uplifting every member of the community. Donations, naming opportunities and legacy-giving help sustain the federation and its showcase campus as sources of learning, health and culture for children, adults and senior citizens. www.jewishharrisburg.org

Five Gold Rings

Help a loved one wear a bit of the Burg—and TheBurg.

Don we now our Stay Apparel: Here’s wearable Harrisburg history, with Stay Apparel’s USA-made T-shirts, hats and accessories adorned with logos and ads from the 20th-century bars, breweries and teams of Harrisburg and central PA. I like the art deco “Refresh with Graupner’s Silver Stock Lager Beer” tee, recalling the legendary Harrisburg brewery that was run, for a time, by the founder’s indomitable widow. www.stayapparel.com

Gear up: Show off your Burg-er pride with TheBurg’s black unisex sweatshirt, women’s white cropped sweatshirt and black or white Walnut Street Bridge tee. They’re the perfect gift for a post-feast walk along the river. www.theburgnews.com/burg-gear

O PA tree: Your hiker friend needs a bit of the trail to take along everywhere she goes. Richelle Dourte of Boiling Springs-based Metalledwith hikes the woods of Pennsylvania every spring and forages for new growth on native PA trees. Then she casts her minuscule, three-day-old leaves in resin and handcrafted metalwork to create delicate necklaces and earrings. www.metalledwith.com, www.villageartisansgallery.com

Deck the Halls

The holidays last a few weeks, but art abides.

Junkster’s paradise: From the Williams Grove flea market to summer yard sales, Jason Lyons finds trash that he turns into treasure. The Harrisburg-based repurposing sculptor transforms saddles into armadillos and typewriters into fish. www.jasonlyonsarts.com

The river rocks: From the Rockville Bridge at sunset to a morning glow on the water, the Susquehanna River inspires artists to capture its mystery. Find local scenes from local artists, including Jonathan Frazier, Carrie Wissler-Thomas and Susan Benigni Landis, at The Smith Gallery & Fine Custom Framing, New Cumberland www.fineart2u.com. Other places to nab art locally include the Art Association of Harrisburg (www.artassocofhbg.com), the Millworks (www.millworksharrisburg.com) and almost any other area gallery.

Reindeer Games

Time out! Take a play break.

Put me in, coach: During the winter solstice, we light candles to chase away the darkness. Or, we can conjure sunny summer days by putting a baseball under the tree, wrapped in Harrisburg Senators season tickets. www.milb.com/harrisburg

Ice, ice baby: The scrape of the skates. The swish of the sticks. The whirr of the Zamboni. Sounds like the AHL Hershey Bears are back with world-class hockey. I must check out the Dec. 22 Berks Holiday Ham Shoot. No, you don’t shoot hams. You shoot pucks for a chance to win a ham. www.hersheybears.com

Run, run Rudolph: Lace up the sneakers and fulfill your New Year’s resolution to train for 2025 YMCA-sponsored races, which will include a half marathon, the always-fun HBG Mile and, of course, the venerable HBG Marathon, among other races. In just a few months, you’ll be in good enough shape to compete with the field. www.hbgyrun.org

Cuddle up: ModSew Designs from New Cumberland’s Rebecca Adey offers stuffed toys with Midcentury Modern flair. Whimsical deer, elephants and octopi just beg to be loved. Millworks Studio #322, www.millworksharrisburg.com/artist/modsew-designs

Beautiful Sight

That Dr. Who TARDIS ornament isn’t an actual time machine. Give the gift of genuine time travel with a piece of Harrisburg history.

Snow scene: When I worked in the Pa. Capitol and had a window looking up at the dome, I felt like I was in a snow globe every time it flurried. The 2024 Capitol Preservation Committee ornament evokes that feeling with its depiction of the Capitol on a winter’s day. www.store.cpc.state.pa.us.

Laying the foundation: Every building in Harrisburg tells a story, and intrepid historian Ken Frew uncovers their tales, from 1719 to 1941, in “Building Harrisburg.” Frew’s monumental compendium brings to life Harrisburg’s architects and the landmark buildings they created amid controversies, confabs and clashes. www.Dauphincountyhistory.org/gift-shop

Traverse afar: “Along the Bethel Trail: The Journey of An African American Faith Community” focuses on the history of the Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church to distill the story of Harrisburg’s Black community in all its resilience, faith and fight. www.amazon.com, www.dauphincountyhistory.org/gift-shop

Local Flavor

I don’t know what figgy pudding is, either. Let’s try these Harrisburg tastes, instead.

Visions of sugarplums: The legacy of Matangos Candies founder Christoforos “Pop” Matangos lives on in the sweets he first learned to make in Istanbul. You’ll still find them, including the impossibly thin and irresistible Venetian mints, in the shop he founded in Harrisburg’s Allison Hill. www.Matangoscandies.com

Cookie monster: You know what’s better than a gift card? Cookies, especially if they come in a gift basket bursting with flavors of your choice, plus three gaily decorated sugar cookies and two gingerbread men. Cece’s Cake Shop has been delighting Harrisburg-area sweet tooths since 2020. Gift a holiday-themed cookie platter, cake pop bouquet, or gingerbread house kit, and grab a few limited-edition cakes and cookies in cranberry almond and eggnog flavors for yourself. www.cecescakeshop.com

Hopping mad: This elf doesn’t stay on the shelf for long. Mad Elf from Troegs Independent Brewing is a seasonal staple, in all its 11% ABV glory. Taste the holidays in every sip made with cherries, Pennsylvania wildflower honey and winter spices. www.troegs.com/bee/mad-elf

Yuletide spirits: Midstate Distillery is the hometown go-to for craft spirits and fun events. Gift an unexpected infusion (Fruity Pebbles, anyone?), meticulously crafted classic such as the nine-botanicals gin (my fave), or a Pennsyltucky bourbon made with PA grains. Crack open the Scratch Batch Cinnamon Vanilla Vodka, and stir up Midstate’s recipe for the winter’s apple cocktail. www.midstatedistillery.com

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Millworks owner to open neighborhood cocktail “dive bar” in Midtown Harrisburg

November 21, 2024 | by Maddie Gittens

High Dive will open at 1400 N. 3rd St.

Harrisburgers soon can toast to a new life for a longtime neighborhood watering hole.

High Dive is slated to open in mid to late December on N. 3^rd Street in Harrisburg, bringing a neighborhood dive/cocktail bar hybrid to the area.

“It’s kind of like a dive bar, but goes high on product,” said owner Josh Kesler, who also owns Millworks in Midtown and the Watershed Pub in Camp Hill. “You can get a cheap beer, but you can also get a cocktail that you might find in a major market.”

In July 2021, Kesler bought 1400 N. 3^rd St., which most recently housed the Third Street Café, and several other bars before that. According to Kesler, the early 1900s building even once housed the Keystone Trust Company bank, which later moved across the street.

Kesler and Harrisburg contractor Dusty James worked to renovate the bar, while keeping its historic charm, noting that the pandemic delayed the project timeline.

The pair found inspiration for the vibe of the two-story bar and restaurant during a trip to Havana, Cuba, where they grew fond of the old architecture and historic style of the buildings. In High Dive, that style is reflected in the exposed brick walls and original tile flooring, among other features.

“I tried to keep the integrity of the historic vibe in it so you can kind of see the layers of the years. You can see all the layers of the multiple uses that were in there,” Kesler said. “I kind of see it as a little bit of a work of art.”

Kesler said that the menu will include beers and burgers, but also unique offerings and special cocktails by locally known “bartender extraordinaire,” Tom McGrath.

“It feels really comfortable for a neighborhood, daily pop-in, but also could be date night on a Saturday as well,” Kesler said.

The former Third Street Café, in addition to the neighboring bar at 1402 N. 3^rd St., were once the target of former Harrisburg Mayor Eric Papenfuse who attempted to revoke their business licenses, saying they were “nuisance bars.”

When the bar closed in April 2021 and went up for sale, Kesler saw it as a chance to bring revitalization to the property and make it an asset for the street.

“My primary interest was trying to help lift the neighborhood,” he said. “I felt like it was an important piece on 3^rd Street and Midtown in general.”

High Dive will be open Monday through Saturday.

For more information, visit their website, which will be updated soon, or Instagram page.

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Bob’s Art Blog: November’s Art Cornucopia

November 12, 2024 | by Bob MacGinnes

Sycamore Studios Mystic Realm at Millworks

“Mystic Realm”

In this gift called “life” that we are given, we all bring something different to the dance—talents shared with the world make us unique in our offerings. For the three Millworks artists that comprise Sycamore Shade Studio #215, singer Van Morrison laid the foundation for their latest installation, Mystic Realm #5. Morrison in his own stylistic manner sang, “as we sail into the mystic…let your soul and spirit fly into the mystic.” Valhalla! The philosophical double meaning of his song captures a journey across the sea on the surface but much deeper it relinquishes a life well lived coming to its end with no fear or trepidation. I envisioned Sycamore’s “Mystic Realm” sculpture as the portal to that glorious end.

For this trio of artists working in clay and glass and playing with fire, they have the science down to an artform as viewed in the Millworks Lobby, opening 3rd in The Burg this Friday. Justin Pettingell, Cindi Hardwicke and Kathy Mina, comrades in arms form a modern-day Three Musketeers. Cindi is the mother figure of the realm, literally, as Justin is her son and Kathy is her artistic cousin. The sculptures come full circle as Sycamore’s fantasy world is replete with landscape, loyalty and legend. Each realm builds upon the other in dramatizing its universe through clay creations, laser-cut wood, glass and jewels. Each artist is highly skilled in a specific area and their work all comes together beautifully, with multi-dimensional storylines, characters and “symbolic explanations of how the world came to be, mostly from Celtic origins,” shared Cindi. The latest edition of “Mystic Realm” focuses on the importance of trees in their world and ours. The Mighty Oak “provides protection and sustenance, its branches spread wide, and its roots run deep,” added Cindi.

Sycamore Shade’s overarching theme is timely and shares a cautionary tale for the ages, touching on issues like climate change, the environment, and how everything in our world is interconnected. We need to take special care of the gifts of nature, of what we have been blessed with, before it too vanishes, “Into the Mystic.”

Domestic Affairs at Susquehanna Art Museum

The irony of the exhibition title, “Domestic Affairs,” newly unveiled at SAM is not lost on the cognoscenti as its multiple meanings are waiting to be unpacked much like freshly laundered towels to be dispensed in the linen closet. With its broadside volley of shot, the theme is open ended with an allusion to clandestine trysts or a new paradigm in the delegation of daily chores in the home. The final decision is yours to make. You will be hard pressed for proof of any definitive answer upon viewing SAM’s ninth juried art exhibit. A modest gallery of 21 artists, crafters, painters, photographers and textile technicians all offer up their personal platform of persuasion. The well-spaced installations in the Doshi Gallery allow for freedom of thought and observation.

Standouts from our perspective are Jessica Shannon’s subtly mixed media piece, ‘The Cycle,’ which takes an impactful walk down a Shipoke-style block of colorful row homes. There’s a vacant address of residence, an idyllic home, a condemned house and a structure burned out next to it. They exist standing side by side without judgement or reprisal as this is a part of modern-day life. Photographs and paintings complement each other’s point of view depicting and questioning domestic life as we know it today. With every possible combination of familial roles on display, the domestic disquietude divides dramatically to a dedicated democracy between partners. Case in point are the works of photography and archival pigment prints by Seth Steven Bechtold, and work by oil portraitist and painter, Steven Pearson from Mechanicsburg. They let the viewer write the script from their own life experiences.

Voting at SAM is now underway for the public to choose their favorite. There are surprises, some surreal, that make this concise show a treat for the senses in its wide-open chess game layout. You have through Jan. 5 to make your move. And if you wait until Nov. 16, you get the added bonus of Edvard Munch: Works on Paper, coming to the Lehr Gallery.

Art by Ann Benton Yeager

Ann Without the E at the Art Association of Harrisburg

Abstract artist, Ann Benton Yeager doesn’t need any letters added onto her name or anything else for that matter as she has hit her stride as an artist of exceptional skill. Deeply entrenched at Millworks Studios for years now, she is currently spreading her wings in a one woman show devoted to her oeuvre of onomatopoeia in painting words, like ‘splash’, sizzle’, ‘pop’ and ‘pow’, just to name a few descriptive ‘zingers’ being bandied about at the AAH. This ‘humdinger’ of a show opens on Nov. 22 with a reception and runs through the new year ending Jan. 3, bringing ‘bubbly’ to 2025.

Carrie Wissler-Thomas, president of the esteemed association is excited to see how Director of Exhibitions Nate Foster hangs this show given the genre’s elusive air. Mounting a show of this ferocity requires putting your thinking cap on. The show will feature between 60 to 80 canvases, as it is an all-inclusive retrospective of the artist’s works. Ann, a self-taught artist now in her 15th year of creating, stands tall in a long line of skilled and renowned painters. Her mother, Linda Benton McCloskey is well known for her legendary landscapes, and her husband Robert is also an artist. The three share space in Millworks Studio 103. Ann’s great-great uncle is also the famous painter, Thomas Hart Benton.

Foster revealed that Ann works in acrylic, cold wax and oil, fluid art, mixed media and encaustic, a type of hot wax art. The artist feels strongly that “abstract art is endless in its possibilities and infinite in design.” Reserve Friday, Nov. 22 from 5 to 8 p.m. to meet Ann in person.

Amie Bantz

Amie Bantz Art in a Vault in Lancaster

Art activist, muralist, and painter of great repute, Amie Bantz now calls Lancaster home and is excited about the new show that just opened at the Lancaster Art Vault, running through Dec. 28. The exhibit, “Embodied Emotions: Celebrating the Human Form” showcases Amie’s art, along with fellow practitioners Vikki Sloviter, Dan Graziano and Judith Gresh. Amie’s entries include “a girl, a cat, a painting…” Intrigued yet? We are.

Emerging artists Genevieve Sherman in November and Ceanna Davis in December add their perspective to what makes us human. In speaking with the Vault’s owner and founder, Victoria Abadir, she shared, “The gallery is concurrently holding another exhibit featuring the impressionistic stylings of painter, Christiane David, who recently returned from Burgundy in France.” David’s show is “Impressionists Celebration: 150th Anniversary of Impressionism.”

The Lancaster Art Vault, located at 100 N. Queen St., is well worth the drive. Plan on making a day of it exploring Lancaster. Queen Street is full of an eclectic array of galleries and restaurants no matter your tastes. Hankering for a slice of Brooklyn? Head to Brooklyn Pizza. Yorgos Restaurant and Lounge just doors away offers modern-day Greek fare plus breakfast. Sakuro Restaurant serves Japanese. It is obvious N. Queen is the scene for a day of adventure away from home.

Art Splash

Artist Carrie Wissler-Thomas and Jonathan Frazier of the AAH are featured for the month of November at Smith Fine Art and Custom Framing. The two were feted at an opening night reception this past week at the gallery in New Cumberland.

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Bob’s Art Blog: Harrisburg Artists Trailblaze Summer

August 13, 2024 | by Bob MacGinnes

“Gather and Release” by Elaine Elledge

Elaine Elledge in the Margins @ SAM

There is no greater force at work in an artist than the need to create. There are times when, due to circumstances far beyond control, that need gets sidelined even though the desire burns bright.

Altoona-born, Harrisburg-based artist Elaine Elledge faced such a daunting challenge, due to a serious health concern combined with the test of new motherhood. Those demands, physical and emotional, left the artist with depleted strength, as she looked for time to see her project through to the end. The fervent desire to push onward against odds and obstacles won out. Her remarkable reward is on view in the main lobby at the Susquehanna Art Museum through Oct. 6. At the halfway point in its run at SAM, it is the golden ticket for this Friday’s 3rd in the Burg.

Finding beauty in impermanence is the hallmark foundation of the Japanese philosophy of Wabi Sabi. Chasing the ever-allusive entity of beauty is what kept Elaine afloat, navigating the flotsam and jetsam of life’s sometimes difficult waters. Utilizing fragmentary moments during the baby’s naps and when health provided strength, she carved out crucial windows of time. Mounting an astounding solo show, “Margins and the Height of the Sun” at SAM proved to be Elaine’s raison d’etre, realizing the tangible goal of seeing her work completed.

Elaine Elledge

The Millworks artist-in-residence can take heart with a great sense of accomplishment, knowing all the hard work was well worth the balancing act it took. Incorporating paper, cheese cloth, fabric and the fine arts of printmaking and sewing combined to create a rich and full experience with a tactile tableau that weaves both the medical and domestic materials of life into a tapestry of triumphant tenacity.

“Margins”…could refer to those slivers of sacrifice when Elaine’s strength ebbed, yet her need to push through superseded any shards of discomfort, shining a light at the end of the tunnel. The artist divulged, “between moves, babies and illness, making art is not done out of abundance but exhaustion and weakness. It is necessary. It is beautiful. It is hard.”

Elaine found deeper meaning in achieving her goal through a will of spirit. Her journey, cathartic in nature, is shared from a physical, philosophical and personal perspective with every stitch and thread detailing the road to resilience and resurgence.

Contact the artist: [email protected]

susquehannaartmuseum.org

Hometown Heroes of the AAH

Allison Juliana and Carrie Feid

“Yay we go way back where we started from. We were hometown heroes high enough for everyone. Oh, we used to say, ‘it’s one for all and all for one.’”

So go the beginning lines from the effervescently catchy song, “Hometown Heroes” by Moon Taxi from a few years back. Viewing the big picture at a vantage point high on the hill at Reservoir Park, summer art instructors of the AAH, Carrie Feidt and Allison Juliana, had home field advantage and 20/20 vision in their game plan for the entire summer. Teaching art and the love for it is second nature to these two, just doing what comes naturally. Translating that to active city youth, every day, the routine of creative endeavors could pose a challenge, but these two art adventurers are so skilled that their target group was unaware they were learning a new skill set. It was all just like having a group hug daily with fun at the center.

Young artists at work

All seated at the picnic tables by the pavilion, the group of young artists were only too eager to put books aside just for a few weeks and pick up paints, brushes and other tools of the trade. The best part—it exercises the right side of the brain, the one that stimulates thinking outside the box, the creative cortex.

Carrie and Allison were wowed by the group’s output and even. at times, a competitive nature was all in good fun for lifting spirits. The art classes were part of Harrisburg’s Summer Enrichment Program, free to city residents age 6 to 14. The camps just ended on Aug. 9, running five days a week with a free lunch for all participants. Beyond the site at Reservoir, the program was offered at seven other city parks. The camps included yoga, pool trips and art but not all at once. The campers can’t wait until next summer, keeping their brushes at the ready. Judging by the art map, just about every city quadrant had a camp close by. A big thanks to Mayor Wanda Williams for such a great summer initiative and to Carrie Wissler-Thomas at the Art Association of Harrisburg for providing the program with the art instructors, one of its many community-wide art outreach programs. Hometown Heroes ends this celebration of its summer chapter with art campers singing, “one for all and all for one.”

Contact: artassocofhbg.com

harrisburgpa.gov+summer

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Harrisburg artist to promote local talent at art showcase during city’s Kipona Festival

August 7, 2024 | by Jolie Lloyd

Local artists expo at the Civic Club of Harrisburg at Artsfest 2024. Photo by Larry Lenzz.

A Harrisburg artist’s passion for spotlighting local talent inspired an upcoming event.

Artist Reina “R76″ Wooden, along with a group of local artists, will present a showcase for Harrisburg’s Kipona festival on Saturday, Aug. 31 through Monday, Sept. 2, giving creators an accessible and affordable way to display their work.

“My mantra has been ‘artists, unite.’ No matter where I go in the city, I look to establish relationships with fellow artists,” Wooden said. “I realized over the years that many of these festivals were not showcasing local talent and that the fees were excessive.”

The group, which will set up in the Civic Club of Harrisburg, will consist of around 30 local art vendors, including LensWorthy Imagery, Prittify, Art by Elliot, Elle x Olyn Baking Co., WhyKnot and Drew’s Wish for a Cure.

Three years ago, Wooden reached out to the Civic Club of Harrisburg, a women’s community organization, to request the use of their garden, first floor and ballroom to host a local art market. Now, she regularly partners with them for events, bringing rising artists together to participate in the city’s festivals such as Artsfest and Kipona, charging artists only $25 for vendor space.

“The idea is for artists to learn how to sell their work and feel comfortable selling it and having different types of art,” Wooden said. “Many of them have not gone to art school, but it’s just natural talent.”

Wooden is also one of the founders of the Civic Club Presents Art Unites the World, a new gallery at the Civic Club showcasing the diversity and creativity of both local and global artists. A grand opening and ribbon cutting will take place at the Civic Club on Aug. 23, from 6 to 8 p.m.

“Reina is a giver,” said Civic Club President Contrena Baltimore. “She is connected to the artists in the community, especially the unsung ones who don’t normally have an opportunity to be showcased. She finds a way to get them out there. It’s really important as an artist to have someone that cares enough that she finds the time and space to help you be recognized in the community.”

To see R76’s work, visit Studio 318 at Millworks or visit her Instagram,@reina76artist. To learn more about the Civic Club of Harrisburg, visit their website. To learn more about Kipona Festival, visit the City of Harrisburg’s website.

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