PVAC Leadership Retreat: Laughter, Connection & Big Ideas
On August 11, 14 of us from the Perkiomen Valley Art Center gathered at the cozy home of our president, Colleen Algeo, for a special Leadership Retreat. Two brand new members joined us, and right away it felt like we were among friends.
We kicked things off with “The Unexpected Game.” Each person secretly wrote down something surprising they’ve done in life. The answers were hilarious, heartwarming, and sometimes jaw-dropping—turns out our artists have lived some pretty adventurous lives! Guessing who wrote what broke the ice instantly and had us all laughing together.
From there, the retreat shifted into meaningful reflection.
"The Stick it to Colleen Game"
Using sticky notes (to respond) we stuck our comments on Colleen's art school self portrait. First up, we celebrated PVAC’s recent successes including:
YAYS
Three vibrant art shows
Inspiring art talks
New classes and Plein Air Outings
And the friendships that keep our community strong.
Also stickie: Our New Website, Monday Meet Ups, New Members, the MCCC show, meetings now held at Peter Becker Community, The Dedication and Excitement of Our members, plus their willingness to help out, The Hill School Show, the Art Talks, and leadership that welcomes new ideas.
WANTS
We also weren’t shy about talking through challenges and brainstorming how to make PVAC even better moving forward.
The collection of what the group who like to see happen includes:
Oil painting classes, a full schedule of activities (have you checked out the new calendar page?), a connection to younger artists (maybe sponsoring a youth exhibit), more sharing of idea on our blog (do members know they can make submissions?), more people at the summer picnic, Facebook group so we can be more spontaneous with our art meet ups, year round plein air events, more people to use the website, broaden details like rain dates, if there is food, alternate dates on our events, a budget (Okay, that was Colleen), More clarity on the prizes at the member show, more shows, advertising for shows, increase awards, local field trip to Souderton - "Eye Curious", Exhibit B and Lunch in town, offer an art camp, a larger place for classes, 2 or 3 people shows, Board Meetings on a more predictable schedule, communication via text messaging, indoor outdoor picnic place - maybe Penny Packer Mills.
VISIONS
What made the day extra special was the mix of fun and honest conversation. We dreamed about what the future of PVAC could look like—new events, new collaborations, and new ways to bring people together through art. They included: Our own building: An actual PVAC Center with a coffee shop! (love it), to strengthen relationships via art, a resource center on the website including a list of art galleries in the surrounding area and places to buy art supplies, An art supply swap/benefit, and more member participation.
The retreat wrapped up with a sense of excitement and connection. Everyone left with smiles on their faces and fresh energy for the year ahead.
Big thanks to everyone who came, shared, laughed, and imagined alongside us. Here’s to a creative and inspiring year ahead at PVAC!
