MCFA - Mercersburg Council for the Arts

MCFA's Art Show TACC's Mercersburg Town Fest 2011

2011-07-14T09:18:00.001-04:00

MCFA is seeking entries for our Art Show to be held at TACC's Mercersburg TownFest. This is a non-juried show, and is open to all ages.

If you are an artist who would like to submit a piece for display in the art show, please download a pdf form here and include it with your entry.

When:
Saturday, September 24, 2011
9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Where:
Presbyterian Church
34 West Seminary Street
Mercersburg, PA

Other Details: We will schedule a drop off date closer to the event. All art must be picked up at the conclusion of TownFest.

JBHS seeking help with musical set design

2011-07-14T09:16:00.000-04:00

James Buchanan High School is preparing for their Spring musical, and need your help.

Adult volunteers are sought to help with set design and construction.

Work on the set will begin in the Fall although the play is planned for the Spring.

If you would like to help, please email Anita Shively at anita.shively@tus.k12.pa.us.

Artist in Residence Opportunity

2011-07-14T09:15:00.000-04:00

Act fast! Application Deadline July 25, 2011

The Tuscarora School District has just posted a job opening for an "Artist in Residence" to work with the JBHS art program. It is a part time, one year position.

This is a wonderful opportunity for a local artist to share expertise with young, upcoming artists.

Artists need a resume and portfolio. Call the Central Office 717-328-3127 to set up an interview. Interviews will be held after July 25th.

Mix It Up with MCFA Scheduled for Tuesday, May 24

2011-05-16T09:09:00.001-04:00

The Mercersburg Council for the Arts is gearing up for “Mix it Up with MCFA,” its’ popular silent art auction fundraiser. The event will be held once again at Flannery’s Tavern on the Square in Mercersburg – hosts of Mix it Up for the past three years – Tuesday, May 24 from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. The silent auction will feature over 30 pieces of original art. “Each year we’re amazed by the quantity and quality of the artwork we receive,” says Allison Zeger, MCFA’s president. “We’re so proud that our community, though small in size, has so much talent. And we want to showcase it.” Donated items range from local music to pottery to paintings and prints.

Each year, a portion of the funds raised at the auction are used to help bring the arts to children through sponsorships to art camps and has helped to fund a new summer art camp in conjunction with TWEP. MCFA has also recently established a scholarship for a JBHS senior who demonstrates outstanding artistic achievement. “One of MCFA’s main goals is to provide art opportunities to children,” describes DeWayna Pittman, MCFA board member.

MCFA gives back to the community in other ways as well. In 2010, MCFA established “Art for Thought” an art demonstration series. The series featured local artists of varying genres giving a presentation of their craft. Art for Thought will continue in 2011 as a hands-on workshop. “We thought it was a good idea to change it up a little from last year. We’re rolling out the new program in September – with guitar, dance, jewelry and paper bag book making to start,” says Zeger. Other outreach includes the MCFA Art Show at TACC’s Mercersburg Town Fest and hosting a night of music at the Mercersburg Lions Club Fair. MCFA plans to implement more community programs like these going forward.

“Mix it Up is a great event because it gets the community talking about the arts. It’s good exposure for the artists - and winning bidders go home with some really great pieces,” explains Kelly Schoenberger, another MCFA board member.

Mix it up is free and open to the public and features a cash bar and appetizers by Flannery’s. If you would like to learn more about MCFA, or the Mix it Up Event, please visit www.mcfapa.org.

Ryan Smith Photography Exhibition Opening This Saturday

2011-03-25T13:34:00.007-04:00

Ryan Smith of Ryan Smith Photography and Chace + Smith Photography, Mercersburg, has a new exhibition titled, “Plastic.Lo-Fi.Holga,” opening this Saturday, April 2 at the Niche Gallery, Burgin Center for the Arts, Mercersburg, PA. The exhibition will include 15 photographs taken with a plastic toy camera called a Holga. An opening reception will be held this Saturday, April 2, at 7:00 p.m. at the Niche Gallery in the Mercersburg Academy Burgin Center for the Arts. The exhibition will be on display from April 2 – 29, 2011. Both the exhibition and reception are free and open to the public. For more information about Ryan, please visit: http://www.ryansmithphoto.com.

LIVE United Art Show

2010-08-16T12:28:00.001-04:00

United Way of Franklin County presents LIVE UNITED Open Art Exhibition in conjunction with the United Ways of PA “Collage of a Commonwealth” traveling exhibition. Artwork will travel September 15 through November 5, 2010 in four Franklin County locations!

DOWNLOAD AN ENTRY FORM HERE - DUE 9/3/10 »

Details:

♦ Artists are invited to deliver one work of art with the theme of “Live United” to M&T Bank, 55 South Main Street, Chambersburg, Thursday or Friday, September 9th and 10th, between 10 am and 2 pm.

♦ All fine art media are encouraged: painting, photography, collage, printmaking, computer generated or sculpture. 2-D works must be framed, and hang-able with wire on the back. Works must be "family friendly".

♦ Artwork must be original (no copies) and created by the entrant.

♦ There is no entry fee; sites will not handle sales.

♦ Entries will be hung at M&T Bank on a first come, first serve basis. United Way reserves the right to ask artists to transport works that are over-size (more than 4 feet in any dimension, or over 50 lbs.).

♦ Franklin and Fulton County residents ages 14 and over are welcome to enter.

♦ Art should be picked up at Greencastle’s Tower Bank, 40 Center Square, Monday or Tuesday, November 8th or 9th between 9 am and 2 pm.

♦ Call Anne Finucane at 816-7568 with questions.

Show Schedule:

M&T Bank, 55 South Main Street, Chambersburg:
Tuesday, September 14, 4:30-6:30 pm: Preview Reception for Artists & United Way guests
Wednesday, September 15, 4:30-6:30 pm, Public Reception
Show Hours: September 15-24, Monday-Friday, 9am-3pm

Waynesboro Area YMCA, 810 E. Main St.:
September 28-October 8 (M-F 9-8, Sat. 9-5, Sun. 1-5)

Mercersburg Inn, 405 S. Main St.:
October 12-22 (12-5 daily)

Greencastle: Tower Bank, 40 Center Square:
October 26-November 5 (M-Tu 8:30-3, W 8:30-12, Th 8:30-3, F 8:30-6 )

Art for Thought: MCFA Presents Woodworking Demo by local craftsman, Ed Beard, this Thursday

2010-08-16T11:55:00.005-04:00

“You find craft in art, but not always art in craft” is local craftsman Ed Beard’s mantra. Ed was born in Washington County MD, and raised in Florida. Today, he and his wife Pat, live in Greencastle - where they have a workshop together.

Ed mainly focuses on wood as a medium. “I find beauty in the woods and the wood grain,” he explains. He holds a BA from University of Florida, and learned Shaker box making from John Wilson (the accepted expert in the woodworking field).

Shaker boxes can best be described as bent-wood "pantry boxes." They were historically used to store teas, eggs and other household items. The usefulness of these boxes appealed to the Shakers and they adopted the style. Careful and graceful construction results in work that is both useful and beautiful.

Mr. Beard has been creating Shaker boxes for over 10 years. He describes the process: “I cut strips of wood, steam them and then bend them around molds which I’ve made. The bands are held together with copper tacks and the tops and bottoms are held with wooden pegs.” It is a skill that takes time to develop.

Ed sells his work at art shows and galleries, and while he does not offer lessons to adults, he does occasional work with kids in wood.

MCFA invites you to see a demonstration of Shaker Box making Thursday, August 19, at 7:00 p.m. in the St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church Basement located at 8 Linden Avenue, Mercersburg.

The cost is $2.00 per person and free for students. Light refreshments will be served. Parking and entrance are around the back of the church. Reservations are not required, but are appreciated. RSVP to mcfainfo@gmail.com or by calling 328-4777.

Next Art For Thought Demonstration:
Thursday, September 16, featuring Watercolor with Laura Shindle.

Art for Thought: Printmaking Demo Thursday, July 15 at 7:00 p.m. at the St. John’s Lutheran Church in Mercersburg

2010-07-12T09:21:00.000-04:00

Join MCFA this Thursday, July 15, for a demonstration of printmaking by local artist, Lynda Beckwith.

Printmaking is the process of creating prints with an element of originality, rather than just being a photographic reproduction of a painting.
Prints are created from a single original surface, known technically as a matrix. Common types of matrices include: plates of metal, usually copper or zinc for engraving or etching; stone, used for lithography; blocks of wood for woodcuts, linoleum for linocuts and fabric plates for screen-printing. But there are many other kinds of matrix substrates and related processes.

Come learn about this unique art form as Lynda describes to us the many processes and materials that can be used in printmaking.

The cost is $2.00 per person and free for students. Light refreshments will be served. Parking and entrance are around the back of the church. Reservations are not required, but are appreciated. RSVP to mcfainfo@gmail.com or by calling 328-4777.

Art for Thought: Swing Dance Demo Thursday, June 17

2010-06-11T11:34:00.002-04:00

“It don’t mean a thing if it ain’t got that swing.”

At least, that’s what John and Denise Bennett will tell you. Hailing from the Dallas, Texas metroplex, John and Denise brought their dancing ways to Mercersburg when they relocated for jobs at Mercersburg Academy.

They started swing dancing during the late 1990’s swing resurgence and fell in love. When asked what draws them to this pastime, John describes, “A hard beat and the determination of the music to offer joy to Americans who were struggling through two of the most trying decades in our history.”

When people think of swing, they see in their minds smiling faces and hard twirling skirts, but it’s easy to forget that swing was the driving joy of the youth culture during the Great Depression and the Second World War.

Denise continues, “Perhaps it required the entire nation to suffer the blues in order for swing to emerge as powerful and liberating as it was … and is. I think we each find a swing beat undeniable. We can’t hear one without as least doing some subtle but fancy toe tapping.”

Denise and John are for the most part self-taught; their skills forged from nights of hard dancing and from years of immersion in the study of the music and cultures of swing.

The couple sponsors Four on the Floor, a swing society at Mercersburg Academy.

On Thursday, June 17, you can see the dancing duo in action. They’ll demonstrate and teach the basics of East Coast Swing, the Charleston, and the Lindy Hop at MCFA’s Art for Thought Series.

The cost is $2.00 per person and free for students. Light refreshments will be served. Parking and entrance are around the back of the church. Reservations are not required, but are appreciated. RSVP to mcfainfo@gmail.com or by calling 328-4777.

Next Art For Thought Demonstration:
Thursday, July 15 featuring Printmaking with Lynda Beckwith.

Moon Dog Pottery Summer Art Camp

2010-06-11T11:34:00.001-04:00

A Quality Summer Art Program for Children ages 6 - 15.

For the last three summers Moon Dog Pottery in Welsh Run has been the host to a summer art program that immerses children in the world of art.

Moon Dog Pottery Art Camp introduces children to a variety of artistic activities designed to develop ability and creativity. Our 5-day program offers an introduction to wheel throwing, hand building, painting, drawing, sculpture, mask making and textile art. Art Camp is for children ages 6-15.

Students are asked to bring their own bag lunch. We provide daily snacks and drinks as well as daily physical activities and games to round out their day.

2010 Art Camp Times:
9:00 AM to 3:00 PM

Summer Art Camp Dates
June 21-25, June 28-July 2,
July 12 - 16, July 19 - 23, July 26 - 30
August 2 - 6, August 9 - 13, August 16 - 20

Payment $189 per camper per week

Moon Dog Pottery
11667 Mercersburg Road
Mercersburg, PA 17236
moondogpottery@aol.com
717-328-9993

Call to Register.

Summer Art Camp for Kids

2010-06-11T11:32:00.001-04:00

3 fun days for kids ages 6 to 12!

Kids will be painting, sculpting and creating just like their favorite artist! This jungle themed camp will have the kids drawing animals, going on nature walks, sketching plants, learning about bugs, and making artwork from other cultures! We will make as many projects as we can fit into the day so there is never a dull moment. Students will be using a variety of media including paint, clay and oil pastels and should dress accordingly. Students should also bring a bag lunch along each day they attend camp. Hope to see you!

The teacher for this camp is Miss Gillespie. She is a certified Art Educator who recently did her student teaching at Mercersburg and Montgomery Elementary.

Cost: $55.00
July 27,28,29 2010 (Tue. thru Thur.)
9:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Where:
Charles Brightbill Environmental Center
James Buchanan High School campus
Mercersburg, PA

To Register call Dawn Beaumont at 814-659-2003 between 9am-7pm.
Registration deadline: July 23. Class Limit of 30.
Cancellation Policy: No refunds for cancellations after registration deadline.

This program was made possible through MCFA and TWEP (Tuscarora Wildlife Education Project).

Creative Highways Book Release

2010-06-09T14:35:00.004-04:00

Local photographer and writer team Ryan Smith and Larissa Chace Smith are proud to announce the release of their new book, Creative Highways. You can view and order copies of the book online through Blurb.

Book Summary
In June of 2009, during the peak of the economic recession, Ryan and Larissa Smith set out on an epic journey from Pennsylvania to Oregon and back. They traversed 15 states across 4 time zones with a simple goal . . . to rediscover America and revisit that great Western spirit they once cherished.

CREATIVE HIGHWAYS by Ryan Smith and Larissa Chace Smith | Make Your Own Book

Art For Thought - Calligraphy Demonstration

2010-05-20T08:24:00.000-04:00

MCFA is implementing a new program to bring the arts to our community.

Thursday May 20: Barb Peshkin - Calligraphy
Thursday June 17: John and Denise - Swing Dance
Thursday July 15: Lynda Beckwith - Printmaking
Thursday August 19: Ed Beard - Woodworking - Shaker Boxes
Thursday September 16: Laura Shindle - Watercolor
Thursday October 15: Kathy Diloretto - Stained Glass
Thursday November 18: Pat Beard - Hand Weaving
Thursday December 17: No Demonstration - Happy Holidays!

Details:
St. John's Lutheran Church Basement
8 Linden Avenue, Mercersburg
Parking and entrance around the back of the church.
7:00 p.m.
$2.00 per person
Students and members free

Art for Thought: Meet Barb Peshkin

2010-05-17T09:37:00.001-04:00

Come watch one of the oldest known written art forms demonstrated on Thursday, May 20 at 7:00 p.m. at MCFA's Art For Thought.

Barb Peshkin will be demonstrating the art of Calligraphy, which literally means beautiful writing. Before the invention of the printing press some 500 years ago, it was the way books were made. Each copy was handwritten by a scribe, working in a scriptorium. The handwriting was done with quill and ink onto materials like vellum or parchment. The lettering style applied was one of the period book-hands like rustic, carolingian or blackletter. Today, there are three main types or styles of calligraphy: (1) Western or Roman, (2) Arabic, and (3) Chinese or Oriental.

You may know Barb Peshkin from her many years as the Art Instructor at JBHS. Today, Barb teaches for the Council for the Arts in Chambersburg as well as other sites in the area. She first learned calligraphy in college and has since developed a heightened interest in the craft through a medieval reenactment group that she has become involved with. Mrs. Peshkin received her Art Education degree from Edinboro University and has taken graduate courses from the University of San Diego, and Carnegie Mellon University.

Barb has been practicing Calligraphy for about 15 years. She describes the process, "Learning calligraphy takes much practice. After choosing a calligraphy style, it should be practiced until letterforms and spacing are worked out for what is to be lettered. There are several types of pens available from felt tip, to metal dip pens. Each has it's own characteristics. Lines should be ruled on the good paper in pencil, then the project is ready to be lettered." Barb warns, "There should be no distractions, such as children or pets or food nearby." Finished projects can be framed, or made into cards or many other display items.

Mrs. Peshkin offers lessons as the opportunity arises. Artwork by Barb, including paintings, can be purchased in Chambersburg or with the Cumberland Valley Craftsmen Guild. Join us this Thursday to watch this meticulous artist demonstrate her skill as a Calligrapher at 7:00 p.m. in the St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church Basement, located at 8 Linden Avenue, Mercersburg.

The cost is $2.00 per person and free for students. Light refreshments will be served. Parking and entrance are around the back of the church. Reservations are not required, but are appreciated. RSVP to mcfainfo@gmail.com or by calling 328-4777.

Next Art For Thought Demonstration: Thursday, June 17 featuring Swing Dance

Mix It Up with MCFA!

2010-05-14T16:06:00.000-04:00

Join the Mercersburg Council for the Arts on Tuesday, May 25, for our Third Annual "Mix it Up with MCFA" Silent Auction and Mixer.

This is our only fundraiser of the year and we need your help to continue to introduce new programs like; "Art for Thought," "Big Band Night at the Mercersburg Fair," "First Fridays" and "ArtOberfest." Your contributions have also helped us provide art camp opportunities for children and donations for our High School Music programs.

We have many more goals like these yet to be reached. So, please, come again this year to enjoy a great evening of live music, delicious food and wonderful local art.

Flannery’s Tavern on the Square
Tuesday, May 25, 2010 • 5:00 p.m.
Free and open to the public
Cash Bar, Appetizers, Limited Menu available for purchase

Schedule of events
5:00 p.m. Silent Auction Begins
5:00 p.m. "Mason Bailey"
6:00 p.m. "The Hello Strangers"
8:00 p.m. Silent Auction Results

Art for Thought: Meet Janine Davis, Moon Dog Pottery

2010-04-15T08:43:00.000-04:00

Originally from the Washington, D.C. area, Janine Davis now operates Moon Dog Pottery from her home studio in Welsh Run, PA.

Janine studied painting, sculpture, design and printmaking formally at the School of Art in Washington, D.C., Maryland University, Utah State University and honed her skills in ceramics with Ben Culbertson at Hagerstown Community College. Over the years, she has continued to learn and study on her own.

Janine put art on the back burner while she raised three children. When she returned to being a full time artist, ceramics was the medium that intrigued her most. “It combines 3-D with the aspect of color.” Janine describes. “It is exciting to explore a medium that combines both those aspects. I enjoy creating an art form of function.”

She first learned to create pottery on the pottery wheel in 1970 when she was in the 10th grade. Janine became a full-time potter in 1999.

Janine begins each project with an inspiration. She elaborates, “The ideas come from everywhere. The wee hours of the morning are a peak time for imagination and inspiration. If I happen to wake up with an idea I take it to the drawing pad or right to the Studio.”

She brings her ideas to form on the wheel. The pots are left to dry and then moved to the kiln for 8 hours of firing. After firing, she glazes the pots. They are dipped, painted or sprayed and put back into the kiln for the second firing at a higher temperature for about 6 hours. The kiln is then left to cool for about 24 hours, and at that time the pottery is ready for display and purchase in her gallery.

In addition to selling her pottery, Janine offers adult classes at her studio and Summer art camps for children ages 6 - 15.

You can see Janine demonstrate her craft on April 22, 2010 at 7:00 p.m. in the St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church Basement, located at 8 Linden Avenue, Mercersburg.

The cost is $2.00 per person and free for students. Light refreshments will be served. Parking and entrance are around the back of the church. Reservations are not required, but are appreciated. RSVP to mcfainfo@gmail.com or by calling 328-4777.

Next Art For Thought Demonstration:

Thursday, May 20 featuring Calligraphy by Barb Peshkin.

For more information about our organization, visit our website at www.mcfapa.org or fan us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/MercersburgCouncilfortheArts

Tuscarora Area Chamber of Commerce and FreeMind seeking artist participation in new community event

2010-04-07T15:43:00.001-04:00

Beginning on Friday May 7, Mercersburg will host a monthly event, "First Friday's - Main Street Mercersburg." The event will showcase storefronts in Mercersburg as well as live music on the square. They are looking for artists to participate in this new community event. Some of you participate in similar events in Greencastle and Chambersburg, and have found great success. The Mercersburg event will open yet another avenue of commerce for you as an artist. We encourage you to participate in all First Friday events by rotating to different communities. Please forward this onto to any artist friends in neighboring communities and ask them to do the same!

Details:
First Friday of every Month, beginning May 7, 2010
4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Set up is at 3:00 p.m.
No fee to participate
Artists are responsible for their own tables/displays, set up and tear down - tear down is no later than 7:30 p.m.
You will be contacted to confirm placement closer to the date of the event.

Would you like to participate?

Please email MCFA or download the interest form below.

First Friday's Participation Form »

Please help MCFA make this a successful event for Mercersburg!

MCFA Seeking Art Donations for Mix It Up Silent Auction

2010-03-12T11:38:00.004-05:00

We will be holding our 3rd Mix it Up Silent Auction at Flannery's Tavern on the Square later this Spring. Each year our donations have increased and become more diverse. Help us exceed last year's showing by donating a piece to our event. All mediums are accepted and can be given directly to an MCFA representative or can be dropped off at either the 4/22 or 5/20 Art For Thought Artist Demonstration.

If you would like to submit a piece, click here.

We thank you in advance for your participation!

America Through the Eyes of the Artist

2010-01-07T10:30:00.003-05:00

Local photographer, Ryan Smith, will be exhibiting photographs at the Chambersburg Council for the Arts Kaleidoscope Gallery. Details are below.

“America Through the Eyes of the Artist” will be on display at the Kaleidoscope Gallery from January 15th through February 20th at 159 South Main Street, Chambersburg. The exhibit will feature photography by Stacey Ferree of Waynesboro, Staci Grimes of Shippensburg and Ryan Smith of Mercersburg. The opening reception will be held on Friday January 15th from 4:30-6:30 PM and will be an opportunity for Gallery patrons to meet the artists.

For more info: http://www.councilforthearts.net
Ryan Smith Photography: http://www.ryansmithphoto.com

MCFA to hold Arts Forum

2009-12-04T13:35:00.001-05:00

The Mercersburg Council for the Arts would like to invite you to an Arts Forum on December the 10th. We will open the floor to our guests to discuss the direction of MCFA in 2010. We have had a successful first year as a non-profit, and continue to hatch plans and ideas for our little town. Now, we'd like your input. Some topics for discussion will be a membership plan - what would you like to gain out of a membership to MCFA? New events. We've had great fun at our Mix it Up and Artoberfest events - can we improve them? How can we serve you better?
We hope you can join us for a lively evening of discussion.

MCFA Arts Forum
Thursday, December 10, 2009
6:30 p.m.
St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church Basement
Linden Avenue, Mercersburg PA
Light refreshments will be served.

RSVP to MCFA by 12/8/09 by clicking here

Halloween Weekend in Mercersburg - Live Music Galore!

2009-10-30T11:10:00.003-04:00

It's going to be a big weekend in Mercersburg this Halloween! Come out and support live music!

Friday at Flannery's Tavern on the Square: Boris Garcia, presented by FreeMind, 9 PM, $7 cover

Saturday at Colonel Murphy's: Halloween Party with Love Hate Thing, $7 with costume

Saturday across the street at Flannery's: Monster Mash with Pale Barn Ghosts and The Hello Strangers, FREE, 9 PM

Hope to see you out!

MCFA's ArtOberfest 2009

2009-10-17T16:00:00.003-04:00

MCFA's ArtOberfest 2009
Autumn is in the air, and Art is on our mind! MCFA is pleased to announce it's Second Annual ArtOberfest. Local fine arts vendors (including oil, watercolor, printmaking, jewelery, acrylic and digital characitures) will display and sell their wares outside on the Mercersburg square while 6 bands show off their performing talents in a rotating schedule at local establishments, Flannery's Tavern on the Square and the newly remodeled and reopened Colonel Murphy's.

We will be selling Event T-Shirts - 1 for $10.00 or 2 for $18.00. See you there!

When:
Saturday, October 17, 2009
4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. - Artist vendors outside on the square
5:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. - Live Music!

Performance Lineup:
5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Brian Stoner - Flannery's
5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Sean Clever - Colonel Murphy's
7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Logan Chace - Flannery's
8:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Lady - Colonel Murphy's
9:00 p.m. - Midnight Kevin Shannon - Flannery's
And Headlining at Colonel Murphy's:
10:00 p.m. - 1:00 a.m. Toy Soldiers (Philadelphia, PA recording artists)

Where:
The Mercersburg Square - Colonel Murphy's and Flannery's Tavern on the Square.

Other Details:
Free Admission and no cover charges. Come out to support our home-grown talent and enjoy some outstanding original music. Cosponsored by FreeMind, Mercersburg Academy and Flannery's Tavern on the Square. Special thanks to Fast Ink for help with production of our T-shirts!

Mercersburg Area Chamber of Commerce Mercersburg Townfest Art Show

2009-09-26T09:00:00.000-04:00

MCFA is pleased to announce it's Second Annual Townfest Art Show. This is a non-juried show, and is open to all ages. This year's art theme is "All things Bright and Beautiful." If you are an artist who would like to submit a piece for display in the art show, please download a pdf form here. Completed forms can be mailed to MCFA, P.O. Box 27, Mercersburg, PA 17236.

When:
Saturday, September 26, 2009
9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Where:
Presbyterian Church
34 West Seminary Street
Mercersburg, PA

Other Details:
Art may be dropped off at the Presbyterian Church, Thursday 9/24, from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. If you cannot drop off your art during this time, please contact Allison Zeger at 328-4777 to schedule another option. All art must be picked up at the conclusion of TownFest.

Videos: Big Band Meets Big Fun

2009-08-26T11:24:00.008-04:00

This year MCFA sponsored an evening of entertainment at the Mercersburg Lions Club Fair. Spectrum performed a variety of big band tunes while the Lindy Hop Dancers gave free swing and foxtrot dance lessons.

It was an evening of great music and dancing. Take a look at the photos and videos to see all the dancing action!

Local Potter achieves National Recognition

2009-08-14T15:53:00.003-04:00

Janine Davis, of MoonDog Pottery in Welsh Run, Pa, has had one of her ceramic pieces selected as part of the 17th Annual Strictly Functional Pottery National.

This is a juried exhibit of functional ceramics. There were 1,252 pieces entered from 46 states and DC and only 108 selected.

The exhibit runs Saturday, September 26 to Sunday, October 25, 2009
560 South Prince Street
Lancaster, PA
www.strictlyfunctionalpotterynational.net

MCFA congratulates Janine on her accomplishment!

Big Band Meets Big Fun at the Mercersburg Lions Club Fair

2009-08-12T19:30:00.000-04:00

Please plan to join MCFA for an evening of nostalgic music and dance at the Mercersburg Lions Club Fair. On August 12, The Big Band Era will come alive, as MCFA cosponsors an evening concert complete with dance floor and swing dance lesson session.

When:
Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Where:
Mercersburg Lions Club Park
315 South Park Avenue
Mercersburg, PA

Time:
7:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.
Music by Spectrum
Performances and FREE Swing or Foxtrot Lessons by Lindy Hop Dancers.

Cost:
FREE

Calling All Artists: Nancy Horton Heefner Memorial Art Show

2009-08-11T14:12:00.002-04:00

The Mercersburg Historical Society is sponsoring the Nancy Horton Heefner Memorial Art Show from September 13th through September 27th. Artists interested in submitting work for this non-juried show should contact Joan McCulloh at 717-328-2248. Entry forms are due by Monday, August 17th.

This is a great opportunity for local artists so please spread the word!

Calling All Musicians and Artists!

2009-06-23T19:44:00.001-04:00

Hello friends of MCFA and fellow artists,

Mercersburg Council for the Arts is putting a call out for the following:

We need musicians for our database! We are often asked to refer musicians for events (our events and those organized by others), and have very few on our list. If you are a musician or know of any, please email us or have them email us at this email (mcfainfo@gmail.com). Specifically, the Mercersburg Farmer's Market is looking for musical entertainment every month until October. Please let us know if you or someone you know might be interested in this fun opportunity!
We also are in need of artists who would be interested in taking part in our Art Donation Program. Several businesses in Mercersburg have agreed to feature rotating artists' work, which they can sell and/or display. If you wish to be featured at a business, please let us know. Artists featured at the Fendrick Library are asked to donate a portion of their proceeds to the Library Building Fund.

Please let us know if you, or anyone you know, wish to take part in any of these great opportunities!

In arts,
MCFA

The Unity Music Festival 2009

2009-06-13T10:00:00.000-04:00

2nd Annual Unity Music Festival
at the Farm of Peace
The Unity Music Festival was founded to promote peace, hope and acceptance through great music, great surroundings, and tantalizing natural foods, enjoyed in the setting of the beautiful Appalachian Mountains at the Farm of Peace.

Attractions include: a main stage, speakers, local and regional artist exhibit and some of the best vendors in the region. Take in some of our speakers and workshops. Bring the kids for a family friendly environment. Bring your lawn chair, pack a lunch and spend the day at the Farm of Peace until the stars come out!

Visit the website for more information, and to purchase tickets. www.theunitymusicfestival.com

When:
June 13, 2009 - Gates open at 10:00 a.m.

Where:
The Farm of Peace
1212 Haven Lane
Warfordsburg, PA 17267
All Ages

Performers:
The Unity Reggae Band, Cello Fourte, Kevin Neidig, Lindsay Mac, Alex & the Kaleidoscope Band, Steve Hickman & John Devine, Jackson Monsour, Mock Turtle Marionette Theater and Camela Widad Kraemer. Read more about the performers here.

Cost:
$20 Advance Price for Adult
$25 at the Gate
$5 for Children 10 and under
Children under 1 yr old & under admittance FREE
Remember to bring some extra money for art vendors!

*This is not an MCFA sponsored event. Alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited from this event.

MCFA 2nd Annual Mixer - Video Recap

2009-06-08T09:59:00.009-04:00

This year's silent art auction and mixer, held on June 2nd at Flannery's Tavern on the Square, was a huge success. The videos below should give you an idea of how much fun everyone had. Thanks to Flannery's, Blue Chair, The Hello Strangers, all of the MCFA volunteers and the Mercersburg community for supporting local art!

Mix it Up with MCFA

2009-06-02T08:36:00.006-04:00

MCFA is pleased to announce it's Second Annual Fund Raiser; Mix It Up with MCFA. Just like last year, we'll have lots of great local art to bid on during the silent auction, live music and plenty of good vibes! If you are an artist who would like to donate a piece for auction, please click here.

When:
Tuesday June 2, 2009

Where:
Flannery's Tavern on the Square
Main Street, Mercersburg

Time:
5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Cost:
Free and open to the public

Schedule of Events:

5:00 p.m.
Silent Auction Begins, meet and greet with MCFA and registration.

5:30 p.m.
Live Music by Blue Chair - Jazz

6:30 p.m.
Live Music by The Hello Strangers - Country/Indie/Rock

7:30 p.m.
Silent Auction Ends

Cash Bar • Butlered Hors d'oeuvres • Limited menu available for purchase

R.S.V.P.’s preferred by May 26, 2009 to mcfainfo@gmail.com

For more information about MCFA, please visit www.mcfapa.org

Rock 4 Drew Benefit Festival, May 30!

2009-05-26T22:53:00.000-04:00

The Drew Michael Taylor Foundation, Ledbetter Heights and Rock Towne Apartments are pleased to announce The 3rd Annual “Rock 4 Drew” Benefit Festival to be held May 30th at Britton Park, 304 Britton RD, Shippensburg, PA 17257. “Rock 4 Drew” is being held in support of the Drew Michael Taylor Foundation by raising money to make a positive difference in the lives of children and youth in Drew’s memory.

Drew Michael Taylor, the son of Randy and Marcie Taylor, lost his life in a tragic traffic accident on June 13, 2006 in the Outer Banks, NC at the age of 3 and 1/2. Randy and Marcie created the Drew Michael Taylor foundation so that his memory would live on through the children and youth of our community. The foundation is committed to providing educational and recreational opportunities for children by funding established organizations and existing programs in need of assistance while looking to create new opportunities to enhance a child’s mind, body and soul.

Rain or Shine 11AM-6PM “Rock 4 Drew,” This festival style event, is ideal for all ages and will be hosted by Ledbetter Heights. Tony Diehl, Co-Chair of R4D Committee and Manager of Ledbetter Heights; says “This is a multi-band show to include: Ledbetter Heights, Dana Alexandra, Mightychondria, The Hello Strangers, Nancy and Jody, Brightside and more to be announced. Admission is free and everyone is invited to be a part of this benefit concert. There will be food, fun and music for all ages so bring your lawn chairs. All proceeds will go directly to the Drew Michael Taylor Foundation.”

The purpose of this event is to raise money for the DMT Foundation. This year’s goal is to raise $10,000; businesses are encouraged to help us achieve this goal. Nathan Serino, R4D Co-Chairman, is excited about the current commitments. “We feel this goal is achievable with the help of businesses through corporate donations as well as individual community support”, he said. “We’re encouraged by the community support that we’ve received to date.” “To get this year’s event off to a great start, Rock Towne Apartments has stepped up as this year’s anchor sponsor.” The DMT Foundation has committed its mission to the community and specifically to enriching the lives of our young people, and for one day we would like to show our appreciation to that wonderful cause.”

Volunteers are key to making the 09 R4D event a success if you would like to make a donation or volunteer in celebration of God’s gift of life that still flows through Drew, please contact Nathan Serino, Rock4Drew Committee Co-Chair at 888-323-8884 ext2 or email: tpd.sales@comcast.net. All donations are tax deductible and should be made out directly to the Drew Michael Taylor Foundation c/o R4D.

For the most current event information about “Rock 4 Drew” visit www.LedbetterHeights.com and for more info on the Drew Michael Taylor Foundation please visit www.DrewMichaelTaylor.org

- The Rock4Drew 2009 Committee

Register now for Summer Art Camp at Moon Dog Pottery

2009-05-20T08:21:00.002-04:00

Register your child for Moon Dog Pottery's Summer Art Camp. The children will do pottery,wheel throwing, hand building, weaving, drawing, painting, sculpture, mask making, stain glass, and much more. Call Janine Davis or e-mail for more information or to register 717-328-9993.

All classes will be held at
Moon Dog Pottery
Welsh Run, PA

June 15-19, 22-26
July 6-10, 13-17,27-31
August 3-7, 10-14

Daily 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

The cost for 5 days is $175.

MCFA at the Mercersburg Home and Garden Festival

2009-05-19T08:32:00.009-04:00

Children braved the windy day to create paper flowers in various colors and patterns.

Visitors at the Mercersburg Home and Garden Festival paint the MCFA Community Canvas. The finished canvas will be given to the Town of Mercersburg as an anniversary gift.

Carol Hall helps her granddaughter, Sophia Stoner, to make a paper flower at the MCFA tent.

MCFA Volunteer Maggie Goff demonstrates how to make a paper carnation.

May 9th First Annual Mercersburg Home & Garden Festival

2009-05-09T10:31:00.000-04:00

Mercersburg Home and Garden Festival
Featuring a Historic District Home & Garden Tour • Art, Craft, Jewelry, and Home & Garden Vendors • Music on the Square • Conococheague Institute Frontier Encampment • Mercersburg Women's Club 100th Anniversary Celebration • MCFA Community art projects. For more information visit festivals.mercersburg.org.

Attention Volunteers!
MCFA will be manning a table at this event. We will have a paper-flower project for kids, as well as a large board for the community to paint their favorite items from nature. The finished board will be presented to the Town of Mercersburg as a 225th anniversary gift. We need volunteers to help with this project. If you are interested in helping to man the table or demonstrate flower making, please email MCFA, or call Allison Zeger at 717-816-7102. If you have extra tissue paper from birthdays or holidays - MCFA wants it! We can use your leftovers - any color, any pattern for our paper flower project. If you can make it to our Open Meeting, you can bring the paper at that time.

Where:
Downtown Mercersburg

Date:
Saturday, May 9

Time:
10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Lancaster Artist Shows Work at Mercersburg Academy Burgin Center

2009-04-30T15:55:00.001-04:00

Paintings by Lancaster artist, Jeff Kromer, are now in the Niche Gallery of the Burgin Center for the Arts on the Mercersburg Academy campus, Mercersburg PA, until
May 24.

Opening reception for the artist is Friday, May 8 @ 7:00 PM.
Free and open to the public!

Moon Dog Pottery to Host Pottery Classes in Welsh Run

2009-04-27T08:27:00.000-04:00

What:
Moon Dog Pottery is hosting Pottery Classes for beginners and experienced potters. The classes will run for 6 weeks and cover wheel throwing, hand building and glaze techniques.

When:
6 week class sessions begin Monday, April 27 or Wednesday, April 29

Time:
6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Cost:
$189.00 - All materials are provided.

Contact Janine Davis at 717-328-9993 for more information, or to register.

“Arts in Action Night” at James Buchanan High School

2009-04-23T13:22:00.000-04:00

What:
Several departments at the James Buchanan High School will participate in an “Arts in Action Night” at the high school. The evening is designed to exhibit and celebrate the creative efforts of our students.

Included will be a grades 1-12 art exhibit, performances by chorus, band, and orchestra students, and a special appearance by Miss Dicey’s School of Dance. Presentations will include technology department films, CO2 Cars, Pre Engineering “Formalizing Idea” displays, FFA public speaking, a flower display and FCCLA state and national exhibits. JBHS and JBMS Franklin County Science Fair projects will be displayed. Drama Club will assist visitors.

A special dedication ceremony is planned for the JBHS mosaic recently completed by mosaicist Justin Ayala, students, faculty, staff, parents, and community helpers. The public is welcome.

When:
Thursday, April 23rd
6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Where:
James Buchanan High School
Mercersburg, PA

Cost:
Free and open to the public

Be Creative @ Your Library

2009-04-14T08:24:00.002-04:00

The Fendrick Library in Mercersburg offers programs for all ages over the summer months. This year's Summer Reading Program theme is, Be Creative @ Your Library! The library coordinators are looking for local artists who might be interested in sharing their talents with area youth and their families. Programs for adults are also welcome!

Programs may be set-up for a specific age level or as a family program. They can be just a 1 hour presentation or a hands-on workshop. Day and time is flexible.

Please contact Cheryl Custer at 717-328-9233, or email MCFA to let us know if you are interested in participating in this community project.

Smoke-Free Music in New Orleans

2009-04-10T13:54:00.002-04:00

Though a long way off from Mercersburg geographically, we thought this was a great idea to help protect the lives and livelihood of musicians. Since supporting all artists and our community is our mission, we wanted to share this concept with you. Hopefully, someday, we can have more events such as this in our area!

Visit The Backbeat Foundation for more information.

MCFA Obtains Non-Profit Status

2009-04-03T10:04:00.002-04:00

We have great news to share: MCFA is now a non-profit organization! Our official status came through in March. MCFA is excited about this new venture.

MCFA wishes to thank all of our first year supporters and, of course, The Mercersburg Area Chamber of Commerce for allowing us to serve under their organization as a committee. The M.A.C.C. gave us the opportunity to gain community recognition and legitimacy as an organization.

Our newly obtained status will allow us more flexibility in programming and fund-raising as well as membership options for our organization.

As a new non-profit organization we have secured our own domain name. You can now view our web site at www.mcfapa.org. Please update your information to reflect this change. Our email and blog site will reamin the same.

We're looking forward to many years of service to our Arts community.

All the Best,
Larissa Chace Smith, Allison Zeger, Kelly Schoenberger, Jenn Flanagan, Ryan Smith, Ozzie Weller and Matthew Kearney

Art Opening: Morgan Higby-Flowers

2009-03-24T14:26:00.003-04:00

This Saturday evening, March 28, at the Mercersburg Academy Burgin Center for the Arts Niche Gallery, at 7 PM:

An opening reception for the art of local artist, Morgan Higby-Flowers.

MCFA Featured in Elegant Living Magazine Article

2008-12-03T08:39:00.006-05:00

The newly formed Mercersburg Council for the Arts recently held a fundraising eventcalled ArtOberfest. Some of the fun included, top left, pottery by Janine Davis of Moon Dog Pottery; top right, a performance by the Hello Strangers alternative country band that includes council President Larissa Smith; bottom left, a musical performance by Mason Bailey; bottom right, an exhibit by artist Diana Penrod, at right.

The Arts are Alive in Mercersburg

Written by DAVE THOMPSON, Elegant Living magazine
Photography courtesy of RYAN SMITH

MERCERSBURG, Pa. — Sometimes all it takes to get a worthy project under way is someone’s desire to do it. The recently formed Mercersburg Council for the Arts is a good example. It basically came about because three young persons had moved back to their hometown and wanted to do something to help it.

Things started when Allison Zeger received an e-mail from a friend, Ryan Smith, that he and his wife, Larissa, had moved back to the area from Austin, Texas. The Smiths have a photography business. Zeger and Ryan Smith knew each other from attending James Buchanan High School. Larissa Smith attended Mercersburg Academy (where her father taught) and said she “vaguely” knew each of the others at the time.

“I got to know Allison after college since Ryan’s brother is friends with her . . . lots of connections!” Larissa said. “I looked at Ryan’s Web site and liked it,” Zeger said. “I was thinking there had to be more artists in the area, and we ought to do something about it.

I had worked in Cumberland, Md., and saw a great artists’ co-op that they had there. “I contacted Ryan, and he said he’d talk with Larissa about it. We met at my place, and it got started.”

“It was Allison who had the idea to start it,” Ryan Smith confirmed. Part of the friends’ desire to start the organization resulted from their belief that relatively isolated Mercersburg is an overlooked treasure.

“We’d like to tell people some of the great things about Mercersburg,” Zeger said. “We don’t want it to become a tourist trap or anything, but we want more people to live here. We felt we all wanted to be involved in the community and help each other make it what we want it to be.”

“We think we are in the right place at the right time and have the drive to do it,” said Larissa Chace Smith.

At 31, Zeger is the oldest of the three. Larissa Smith is 29, and Ryan Smith is 28. After initial organization meetings, the council was formed as a committee of the Mercersburg Area Chamber of Commerce.

Its stated mission is: “To facilitate dialogue between Mercersburg area artists and the community through the organization of events and exhibits; encourage local artists to develop and showcase their unique talents; and to enrich our community with cultural and ethnic diversity via the arts.”

“Our big word is facilitate. We want to promote contact between artists and artistic entities that they might not experience otherwise,” Larissa Smith said. “Mary-Anne Gordon at the chamber was very enthusiastic about helping to make us a committee under the chamber. Our goal is to become a nonprofit.”

The group has applied for nonprofit status in Pennsylvania and the goal is to have it by January. Some fundraisers have been held, and personal donations amounting to about $3,500 have been received.

A recent event called "ArtOberfest" featuring an art sale and musical entertainment was held at the James Buchanan Restaurant and Pub downtown.

“We’ve gotten a lot of support from the Franklin County Visitors Bureau,” Zeger said. “The Chambersburg Council for the Arts has been huge. They’ve donated money, offered advice and helped in other ways.” An art show with the theme “What Mercersburg Means to Me,” open to all ages, was held at the recent Mercersburg Townfest.

“We try to get kids involved, then maybe the adults will stop by,” Zeger said. “We also raised a little money with a raffle.”

“Rockwell Construction donated eight great foldable easels for the art show that we’ll be able to use for future shows,” Ryan Smith said.

Larissa Smith is president of the MCFA board, while Zeger serves as vice president and Ryan Smith as historian. The first additions to the board were Kelly Schoenberger, secretary, and Jenn Flanagan, treasurer.

“We got Kelly and Jenn on board for more business sense to keep us grounded,” Zeger said. Other recent additions to the board include Ozzie Weller and Matthew Kearney.

Future plans include events such a Christmas program and caroling, Music on the Square and “First Night” activities downtown on New Year’s Eve.

“We’d like to do things to give artists a physical presence where art can be displayed and sold,” Larissa Smith said. “We’d like to find some permanent space in town for display and even some studio space.”

Smiling, Zeger said, “We’d like to have something in our town so we don’t have to drive so far for everything. We want to be an art-friendly town.”

Area artists, take note.

Recent Event: ArtOberfest

2008-10-09T10:26:00.000-04:00

On October 4th, MCFA held the first (and hopefully annual) event "ArtOberfest" this past Saturday evening at The James Buchanan Hotel, Pub and Restaurant.

Artists and musicians filled the crisp, autumn night with the sights and sounds of local art. Many guests filtered in through the restaurant and onto the patio as they admired the talents on display and enjoyed the live entertainment.

Many thanks to our artists and musicians in attendance: Eric Schaeffer, Mason Bailey, The Hello Strangers, The Pale Barn Ghosts, Daniel Jensen, Janine Davis, Diane Skubon, Diana Penrod, Glen Sabetto, Anne Finucane, Teresa Ucellini and Georgia Barvinchak. And thank you to the patrons who purchased art. Your attendance and participation makes these events meaningful and worthwhile.

Thanks to our hosts, John and Deniz Celestin and to their staff, for a job well done.

MCFA hopes to plan and excecute more events like this in the future.

Diana Penrod displays work and talks with visitors at ArtOberfest.

The work of Janine Davis of Moon Dog Pottery.

Patrons examine various artists artwork in the parlor.

Checking out Anne Finucane's etchings.

The Pale Barn Ghosts were the last of four bands to perform in the courtyard at the MCFA ArtOberfest.

Recent Event: Mix It Up with MCFA

2008-05-22T09:47:00.000-04:00

On Tuesday, May 20th, the Mercersburg Council for the Arts held its inaugural fundraising event at Flannery's Tavern on the Square in Mercersburg, PA. From 5-8 p.m., a silent auction was held, scrumptious hors d'oeuvres were passed by the staff, door prizes were given away, and live music was supplied by local alt-country group, The Hello Strangers, with special guests, The Blue Chair (jazz). It was certainly a smashing success! The need for more art events in our community was affirmed by the amount and variety of people that attended.

The Council is thrilled with the support they have received from the Mercersburg Chamber of Commerce and community members. We are confident that we will now have the momentum to continue our mission and goals in the years to come. Thank you to everyone who came out to our mixer and who support the local arts. And please enjoy the photos below, taken by Ryan Smith (Historian of MCFA)!

The Hello Strangers (L-R, Fred Kosak, Brechyn Chace, Larissa Chace Smith)