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  • September 18, 2023 1:17 PM | Colleen Algeo (Administrator)

    In a captivating art talk event held yesterday afternoon, local award-winning artist Cathy McIlhenny opened a window into her artistic world, offering a glimpse into her creative process, sharing invaluable tips, and even demonstrating her exceptional talent with pastels. The event, attended by a diverse audience of art enthusiasts, brought to light the beauty and depth of pastel artistry.

    This Art Talk was Perk Valley Art Center's first presentation at its new meeting place at Maplewood Estates in Harleysville. Those in attendance had positive comments about the size of the room, the comfort and the elegance. A few enjoyed the offerings at the cafe that is in close proximity to the conference room. 

    Cathy McIlhenny has been a PVAC member for a number of years and has participated and earned awards in both PVAC's member shows and juried shows. Her pastel works have graced galleries and exhibitions around the area like the Pastel Society of Philadelphia and the Wayne Art Center, earning her accolades and admiration for her unique style and masterful technique. The event was an opportunity for attendees to delve into her artistic mind and discover the secrets behind her stunning creations.


    McIlhenny's talk began with an introduction to her journey as an artist. She shared her early inspirations, highlighting her love for nature, her hometown, and the vibrant and versatile medium of pastels. Her story of artistic growth resonated with many aspiring artists in the audience.

    The highlight of the afternoon was the unveiling of McIlhenny's artistic process. Through a live demonstration, she showcased her meticulous approach to pastel art. Layer by layer, she built the beginnings of a breathtaking landscape, revealing the magic that happens when pastels meet paper. The audience watched in awe as vibrant colors blended seamlessly to create depth and atmosphere.

    But it wasn't just a visual treat. McIlhenny generously shared 15 practical tips for those looking to embark on their own pastel art journey:

    1. Start with quality pastels: McIlhenny emphasized the importance of investing in professional-grade pastels for better results and organizing them light to dark to simplify your process. 

    2. Choose the right paper: Sanded papers with texture are ideal for pastel work, as they allow for layering and blending.

    3. Prepare your workspace: A clean and organized workspace is crucial for focus and creativity.

    4. Begin with a limited color palette: Limiting your colors initially can help you learn how to mix and blend effectively.

    5. Understand color theory and composition: McIlhenny stressed the significance of grasping the basics of color theory and composition for achieving harmonious color balance and intrigue your viewer into the painting. Use a color wheel to find the complimentary and tertiary colors to use in your work. 


    6. Master layering and blending: Start with a light touch and gradually build up layers for depth and richness working dark to light. Your fingers are your best tools for blending. Wash them well with soap and water from time to time as you are working. 

    7. Experiment with different strokes: Hatching, cross-hatching, stippling, and scumbling can create various textures and effects.

    8. Use fixative spray sparingly: Fixative spray (or quick drying alcohol) can help set your work in the early stages (or first pass), but use it lightly to avoid dulling colors.

    9. Work from background to foreground: This technique enhances the sense of depth in your artwork. Example: begin with the sky and work your way down the painting to the land. 

    10. Explore different surfaces: Don't limit yourself to one type of pastel paper; try other surfaces or sanded paper for unique effects.

    11. Study and practice: McIlhenny encouraged attendees to study pastel artists they admire and practice regularly.

    12. Protect finished artwork: Proper framing and the use of a spacer in your frame are essential to safeguard pastel works from touching the glass as well as protect it from dust and damage.

    13. Take breaks: Pastel work can be physically demanding, so rest your hand and eyes regularly.

    14. Seek feedback: Sharing your work and receiving constructive criticism can aid in growth as an artist. Attend a local art class or workshop to enjoy the social aspects of creating as well as feedback from others. 

    15. Have patience and persistence: McIlhenny reminded everyone that art is a journey, and improvement comes with time and dedication.

    The event concluded with a Q&A session, where attendees had the chance to engage with Cathy McIlhenny personally, gaining further insights into her artistry.

    As the ART TALK drew to a close, attendees left with hearts full of inspiration and heads brimming with knowledge. Cathy McIlhenny's ART TALK and Demonstration had not only shed light on her artistic process but had also ignited a newfound passion for pastel artistry among those in attendance. 

    Join us at our next ART TALK! 

    Enter our next show! 

  • September 18, 2023 10:00 AM | Colleen Algeo (Administrator)

    Join Us for Perk Valley Art Center's 67th Annual Open Juried Art Show!

    Get ready for an extraordinary celebration of artistry! You're cordially invited to Perk Valley Art Center's 67th Annual Open Juried Art Show—an event that promises to immerse you in the world of creativity and talent.

    Event Details:

    • Date: October 30 - December 15, 2023
    • Venue: The Hill School Center for the Arts - BOYER GALLERY, 766 Beech Street, Pottstown, PA
    • Show Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday, 1-4pm

    This event is a cherished cornerstone of our artistic community. It's where artists of all backgrounds come together to showcase their masterpieces. It's a treasure trove of creativity, a place where diverse artistic works come to life.

    What You'll Encounter:

    • Paintings: Traditional and contemporary, in various mediums from oil to watercolor.
    • Sculptures: Three-dimensional wonders in wood, metal, stone, and clay.
    • Photography: Captivating moments captured in photographs.
    • Drawings: Intricate and expressive works on paper.
    • Printmaking: Artistic prints, each a limited edition masterpiece.
    • Textiles and Fiber Art: Quilts, tapestries, embroidery, and more.
    • Ceramics: Functional and decorative pottery.
    • Digital Art: Innovative digital creations.
    • Collage and Assemblage: Layered and textured compositions.
    • Mixed Media: Fusion of techniques and materials.

    These artworks reflect the vision, skill, and creativity of our featured artists, inviting you to connect, interpret, and appreciate the rich tapestry of human expression.

    Why Attend:

    • Diverse Artistry: Explore a wide array of artistic expressions.
    • Talent Unveiled: Witness remarkable artworks and the stories they tell.
    • Community Connection: Immerse yourself in a vibrant art community.
    • Support the Arts: Your presence fuels creativity in our community.

    This event is a testament to art's power to inspire, connect, and elevate the human spirit. Whether you're an artist eager to showcase your talent or an art lover seeking inspiration, you're welcome to be a part of this artistic celebration.

    Don't miss the chance to be captivated by these artistic wonders. Mark your calendars, invite friends and family, and prepare to dive into a world of creativity and imagination.

    For appointments or further information, please call 610-705-1039.

    We eagerly await your presence at this remarkable showcase of artistry. See you at the 67th Annual Open Juried Art Show!


  • September 17, 2023 12:00 PM | Colleen Algeo (Administrator)

    Explore Our Members' Online Exhibit: A Showcase of Talent

    We are thrilled to invite you to immerse yourself in this month's captivating online exhibit featuring the outstanding work of eight of our talented members. Prepare to be dazzled by the diversity of artistic expressions and the remarkable talent on display.

    Online Exhibit Details:

    • Featured Artists:
      Martin Wigg
      Catherine McIlhenney
      Jon Bond
      Sandy Thapsem
      Lois Schlacter
      Stephen Allen
      Deb Nyman
      Kathy Bohn

    • Visit the Exhibit

    This exhibit celebrates the rich tapestry of our artistic community, where each member brings their unique perspective and talent to the forefront.

    How to Explore:

    To experience this inspiring exhibit, simply visit our online platform  and start your virtual journey. Navigate through the digital galleries, click on individual artworks for a closer look.

    We encourage you to share your thoughts, impressions, and support for our featured artists. Engage in the artistic dialogue by leaving comments, participating in discussions, and connecting with fellow art enthusiasts online.

    Thank you for being a part of our vibrant artistic community. We look forward to your virtual presence at this month's online exhibit. Your support and appreciation mean the world to our talented members.

    Happy exploring!

    We welcome your participation in our next online exhibit. 



  • September 14, 2023 1:44 PM | Colleen Algeo (Administrator)

    PVAC welcomes Cathy McIlhenney


    Join us at Maplewood Estates (2nd floor conference room), 815 Maplewood Drive, Harleysville on Sunday, Sept. 17 at 2pm for an ART TALK featuring the talented pastel artist Cathy McIlhenney. 


    Meet Our Featured Speaker: Cathy McIlhenny, Pastel Artist Extraordinaire

    • Join us for an engaging discussion with PVAC member Cathy McIlhenny as she takes us on a captivating journey through her world of pastel art. Cathy will share her artistic evolution, showcasing both finished pieces and one of her current works in progress.
    • Be prepared to dive into the pastel medium with Cathy. She'll not only provide a short live demo but also delve into the tools of her trade, from specialty papers to pastels themselves, and the techniques she employs to craft her exquisite masterpieces.
    • This promises to be an interactive session, with ample time for your questions and a lively discussion about the vibrant and versatile world of pastels. Don't miss this unique opportunity to gain insights from a talented artist and fellow PVAC member!

    Reserve your Seat Now! 

    WORK SAMPLES:






    BIO:

    Catherine McIlhenny lives with her husband in Harleysville Pa.  The fields, walking paths, farms, trees and community provide her with the inspiration her pastel paintings.
    Even as a small child, she loved being outdoors climbing trees and wandering through the woods.  

    She has always loved to draw.  Her mother said “she was always making something”.
    Art has always been an important part of Catherine’s life.  Although while raising her three children, she was not able to draw and paint as often as she would have liked, she continued to go to museums and art shows.  She participated in Art Goes to School, a program that brings art history into the local public schools.  She eventually became a member of the portfolio committee.
    Catherine has taken many art classes through the years, but the pastel class taught by Teresa DeSeve at Greater Norristown Art League was the most important of her life as an artist.  Teresa prompted her in class about the importance of an artist finding their direction.  Catherine recognized that her love of nature, gardening and her community would be her artistic calling: sky, clouds, trees, flowers, farms, ponds, and fields would be her subject.  Although she doesn’t paint the figure she has taken figure drawing classes consistently since college graduation. Currently she participates in a figure drawing class at Wayne Art Center.  It provides valuable observation skills.
    Her work has been included in many juried exhibits such as Perkiomen Valley Art Center, Greater Norristown Art League, Meadowood, and Pastel Society of Philadelphia where she has won awards at all of them.

    Catherine is currently a pastel instructor at Greater Norristown Art League teaching a beginner/intermediate class.  

    Reserve your Seat Now! 

  • June 08, 2023 8:21 PM | Colleen Algeo (Administrator)

    New Venue, Enhanced Experience: Perk Valley Art Center's ART TALKS Find a Home at Maplewood Estates!

    Starting from September 2023, Perk Valley Art Center is thrilled to announce a venue change for its esteemed ART TALKS. We are delighted to host these enlightening sessions at the newly renovated Arbor Conference Center, nestled within the picturesque Maplewood Estates in Harleysville. 


    Announcing a new venue for the PVAC ART TALKs.  Beginning in September 2023, they will be held at Maplewood Estates located at 815 Maplewood Drive in Harleysville. Parking is close by and very accessible. 

    Prepare to be captivated by the enhanced experience at our new location, boasting state-of-the-art speaker support. Immerse yourself in the spacious and comfortable conference center, specially designed to create an engaging ambiance for our esteemed speakers and attendees. Additionally, we are thrilled to offer a charming café on the same floor, providing the perfect space for mingling and connecting with fellow art enthusiasts.

    Join us at the Arbor Conference Center at Maplewood Estates for an elevated ART TALKS experience like never before!

  • June 08, 2023 6:19 PM | Colleen Algeo (Administrator)

    Need Some Inspiration?

    According to their recent newsletter Brad Hendershot and Katherine Kreig embraced a productive winter with snowy plein air painting:


    A Newsletter Excerpt

    "NEWS

    Winter was rather blah around here in our Pennsylvania studio. If there was one day of flurries, we were lucky. Not the best weather for a snow painter! So, we have been making our own snow as well as a few summer pieces for upcoming shows.

    Winter saw us traveling again in March to Jeffersonville, Vermont, for the annual Jeffersonville Winter Rendezvous and in search of snow. Mother Nature did not disappoint! We were hit with a two-day snow storm and we plowed our way to superb painting locations! We got to reconnect with some painting pals and enjoyed meeting the locals who gave more suggestions for beautiful views. Thank you, Vermont!!!"

    IF YOU ARE CURIOUS WHAT THEY CREATED YOU ARE IN LUCK. THEY ARE HOLDING A SUMMER OPEN HOUSE.

    They are extending an invitation to all PVAC Members to see the results of their painting in the snow and more!

    HENDERSHOT & KRIEG OPEN STUDIO:

    Saturday June 17 and Sunday June 18 10am - 6pm

    Hoppenville House

    5455 Hoppenville Road

    Green Lane, PA 18054

    215-872-2220

    Light refreshments. Original works and prints. Ray Hendershot prints. Original works by Ray are by appointment.

  • June 05, 2023 3:15 PM | Colleen Algeo (Administrator)

    Introducing to our new Website! 

    The Perkiomen Valley Art Center leadership team welcomes you to our newest work of art. Our shiny new website is brought to you thanks to a donation from member Pat Wilson-Schmid.

    It is our goal to make this our center for all member communication so we are glad you stopped in. 

    If you are new to PVAC, we invite you to look around and feel free to contact us if you see something you like or have questions about our group. You can also become a member and start participating and supporting the arts community. 

    Members should check their in-boxes for an e-mail so that they log into  this site and participate in the forums, connect with other members and take full advantage of their membership. Questions? Please contact us.

    Please send us your comments as this is a work in progress.

    Image by Free Pix (www.freepix.com)

     

  • June 05, 2023 2:25 PM | Colleen Algeo (Administrator)

    Scholarships Awarded thanks to the Generosity of PVAC Members

    Congratulations to Elizabeth Krantz (Perk Valley High School Class of 2023) and Abel Alarcon Ortega (Souderton Area High School Class of 2023) the  recipients of this year's PVAC Scholarship Awards.

    The recipients were chosen by their High School Administrations as demonstrating excellence in their art studies. PVAC through the generosity of its members and additional fundraising via their "Hearts for the Arts" program was able to provide a larger award than in prior years. Each recipient received a $300 award this year (an increase of $200/per student) to celebrate their High School successes to help them further their education. 

    According to PVAC President, Colleen Algeo, "Perkiomen Valley Art Center is excited to see the students succeed. We are thrilled to be able to increase our support this year and invest in the future education of Elizabeth and Abel. They are highly accomplished student artists and have worked hard to earn the respect of their teachers. More, there are many artists in the PVAC group who make themselves available as mentors to emerging artists. We hope that the help we have given them today provides an opportunity to creative connections and continues as they move forward with their career plans." 

    Colleen Algeo & Kathy Bohn, PVAC Vice President attended the award ceremony at Perk Valley High School on May 17 to meet and present the award to Elizabeth Krantz, who was very appreciative of the recognition and the monetary award. 


    Kathy Bohn (right) congratulates Elizabeth Krantz on her achievement as the recipient of the Perk Valley High School (PVHS) Art Award during the PVHS Senior Award Ceremony held on May 17th.  


     


  • June 03, 2023 4:16 PM | Colleen Algeo (Administrator)

    Loving the Past and Seeing the Future 

    Pat Wilson-Schmid Donates to Help the Future Members & Leaders of PVAC

    by Colleen Algeo

    We owe long-time member, Pat Wilson-Schmid a debt of gratitude. At the March Board Meeting Pat surprised everyone by humbly offering to pay for a new tool. It is not just any tool, but an all purpose tool in the form of a software program that helps non-profits like ours take care of business, collaborate, and provide an enhanced member experience. The tool’s name is Wild Apricot. When asked why she decided to fund the software she said, “PVAC has done so much for me! I’d like us to focus on the mission and forget the hassles. Us old farts will be gone some day and this program will make it easier for future generations to continue. I am helping that happen because I love what PVAC has done for me. ” 

         Pat took classes with the PVAC founder Charles R. Gardner and described him as a progressively minded teacher who always made you feel good about your work. She added that she, like he, wanted PVAC to go on. Charles made quite an impression on Pat. In fact, she loaned us one of Charles’ originals for our 60th Annual Member Show and can describe how he created the painting.

        

    HAPPY BOARD MEMBERS: L-R: Sharon Gross, Pat Wilson-Schmid, Deb Nyman and Kathy Bohn pause for a photo op in Pat’s studio. 

    Pat has spent her life studying her craft. She revealed, “The act of painting is who I am. In addition to unusual lighting effects I enjoy showing my artist’s handwriting in my work. While viewers experience the painting, I hope they see me through the brushstrokes, transcending time. My want is to share the act of painting with my viewer. The texture of each brush stroke reveals my effort, my energy, my desire to say, ‘See, you are here with me, and I might stay with you forever in this painting.’ ” What I didn’t tell you is that Pat has promised to pay for this software in perpetuity. How’s that for staying with us forever! There aren’t enough thank yous, Pat, for kickstarting and sustaining our the new website you see here!  

    Here is a poem by her that we thought might inspire you. 

    A Painter’s Journey

    by Patricia Wilson-Schmid

    Partake of life through all the bloom
    of each and every cycle.
    And in the morning of each part
    anticipate the glories.
    Look back upon the evenings.
    Ask what of worth to keep.
    Move a level onward,
    renewed and wiser still.
    Grow in heart.
    Prepare to leave a mark, a word, a thought
    Transcend your span to be fulfilled
    in future human kind.

  • May 02, 2023 6:50 PM | Colleen Algeo (Administrator)

    Member Show Results
    People with Creative Minds Really do see the World Differently.

    by Colleen Algeo, President

    What is it about a creative work like a painting that elicits our awe and admiration? Is it the thrill of being shown something new, something different, something the artist saw that we did not? The idea that some people see more possibilities than others is central to the concept of creativity. 

    “Others have seen what is and asked why, I have seen what could be and asked why not.” ~Picasso

    This was truly demonstrated at our recent Member Show. There are so many wonderful creative works being shared. The reception was a brilliant success with friendly camaraderie and lots of idea exchanging. Oh and great snacks! I applaud everyone who participated and am grateful to our donors and volunteers who helped it come together. I really think our founder Charles R. Gardner would have been thrilled. 


    AWARDED ARTISTS GROUP: Distinguished Awards: Sherry Ward & Lori Quinque-Quinn  Special Awards: Joan Ambrose-Bibbo, Barbara Brown, Koz Noruzi, Terry Souders, Susan Sowers, Debra Yerger, Donna Steich, David W Thomas  Professional Awards: Thomas W Benfield, Phillip A Smith, Susan Klinger, Kathleen Bohn.  Emerging Awards: Teresa Nicoko, Barbara Jones, Donna McGough, Sharon Moyer.  Not Pictured: Kathy Bohn & Philllip Smith

         As artists, I think it is part of our wiring to continually look at things from different perspectives and then to explore ways to show that to the world. The leadership team is committed to this very concept with the goal of  having those new insights show us the way forward. New offerings are coming your way in hopes of eliciting a little awe and excitement from you about PVAC.  Here are a few more photos from our 60th Annual Member Show. 

     

    Sherry Ward was chosen for the inaugural FOUNDERS AWARD.

     Lori Quinque-Quinn was chosen for Best of Show.

    1st Place Professional - Thomas W. Benfield - Ascension - Acrylic

    1st Place Emerging - Teresa Nicolo - Welcome to the Neighborhood - Pastel

    Congratulations to all our Members for an amazing show. 

    To see all the winners visit our Photo Page 


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PERKIOMEN VALLEY ART

Serving Mongtomery, Bucks & Berks Counties, PA

Perkiomen Valley Art Center  (PVAC) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization founded in 1957 to further art appreciation and direct involvement with the arts by providing cultural programs and exhibitions by area artists.

Program presentations and show receptions are free and open to the public.


Meeting Address: Maplewood Estates, Arbor Conference Center, 2nd Floor, 815 Maplewood Dr., Harleysville PA 19438

Mailing Address:
PO Box 474  Schwenksville PA 19473
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