Press Releases

SAMA is pleased to announce new members to the Board of Trustees

 

The Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art in Loretto is pleased to announce our newest Board of Trustee members, Carly Cook and Barbara O’Brien. Ms. Cook and Mrs. O’Brien will join existing members in overseeing the organization and representing SAMA proudly in the six counties we serve Bedford, Blair, Cambria, Fayette, Somerset, and Westmoreland. SAMA is fortunate to have talented individuals leading the Museum and helping to fulfill our mission to preserve, exhibit, and advance American art and bring educational and cultural programs and activities to the people of the southwestern area of central Pennsylvania.

 

Carly Cook is a lifetime resident of Blair County and graduated from Hollidaysburg Area School District in 2008 and Penn State University in 2012. Cook is the Branch Manager of Jersey Shore State Bank where she takes pride in helping the community and businesses meet their financial goals. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her husband and family, gardening, thrifting, and exploring new restaurants and boutiques. In this role, she hopes to bring awareness to the museum and all it has to offer as we truly are fortunate to have such a cultural venue available to us within our Central Pennsylvania community.

 

Barbara O’Brien is from Loretto in Cambria County. She and her late husband Ed owned and operated the Brinkwood sheep farm in Loretto. She was also a part of the management team for the Wicklow Fuel Company they owned and operated in the area. Barb enjoys the farm, gardening, her grandchildren, her mother (91), travels to her vacation home in Florida, and all things SAMA.  O’Brien stated, “It is both an honor and a privilege to now serve as a SAMA trustee and continue, just as my husband Ed O’Brien did, with our patronage and support of the arts and the artists of our region.”    

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SAMA is pleased to announce new members to the Board of Trustees

 

The Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art is pleased to announce our newest Board of Trustee members, Ehrin Ward and Meghan Bardell. They will join existing members in overseeing the organization and representing SAMA proudly in the six counties we serve Bedford, Blair, Cambria, Fayette, Somerset, and Westmoreland. Together they will fulfill SAMA’s mission to preserve, exhibit, and advance American art and bring educational and cultural programs and activities to the people of the southwestern area of central Pennsylvania.

 

Meghan Bardell is the Finance and Marketing Director at Howard Hanna Bardell Realty but is also a self-employed artist. Bardell has been exhibiting her works of art in several galleries in Maryland and Pennsylvania since 2009. Bardell said “I have been an “artist” since birth. I give everything I do 120% effort and refuse to fail or give up and I always try to inspire my children to work hard every single day, just like my parents and grandparents did for us kids growing up”. Meghan is looking forward to helping and promoting art and artists in our communities.

 

Ehrin Ward has a background in Fine Art and Textile Design. She received her Bachelor’s degree from Albright College in Reading, PA with a major in Fine Art and a minor in Fashion Illustration. Ehrin continued her studies receiving a master’s degree in Textile Design from Philadelphia University (now Thomas Jefferson University) in Philadelphia, PA. Ehrin has always had a passion for the arts, both visual and performing. She enjoys watercolor painting and illustration and is happy to be part of SAMA’s community.

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SAMA EARNS HIGHEST HONOR

 

The Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art is extremely pleased to announce an achievement of the highest honor! The American Alliance of Museums (AAM), the only organization representing the entire scope of the museum community, announced on November 22, 2022 the Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art has earned reaccreditation. Of the United States’ estimated 33,000 museums, only 1,099 have earned the standing of currently accredited. In Pennsylvania alone, there are only 35 institutions with this achievement.

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From art and history museums to science centers and zoos, AAM is the only organization representing the entire museum field. Since 1906, they have been championing museums through advocacy and providing museum professionals with the resources, knowledge, inspiration, and connections they need to move the field forward. Recognized as the field’s gold standard for museum excellence for over 50 years, AAM accreditation signifies a museum’s quality and credibility to the entire museum community, to governments and outside agencies, and to the museum-going public. The Accreditation Program helps to ensure the integrity and accessibility of museum collections, reinforce the educational and public service roles of museums, and promote good governance practices and ethical behavior.

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Through a rigorous process of self-assessment and review by their peers, these museums have demonstrated they meet standards and best practices and are educational entities that are appropriate stewards of the collections and resources they hold in the public trust. To earn accreditation, a museum submits a self-study questionnaire and key operational documents for evaluation, then undergoes a site visit by a two-person team of peer reviewers which produces a report for the Accreditation Commission. The Commission uses these materials and its collective expertise to decide whether to grant reaccreditation for 10 years, deny reaccreditation, or defer to gather more information. Read more about the Alliance’s Accreditation program at https://www.aam-us.org/programs/accreditation-excellence-programs/accreditation/.

 

Reaccreditation is a year’s long process, where every aspect of the museum’s operations, scholarship, and conservation efforts is analyzed and evaluated. With five facilities across Pennsylvania, SAMA poses a unique subject for evaluating institutions such as the American Alliance of Museums. Over the past two years, SAMA’s staff and Board of Trustees have worked with the American Alliance of Museums to present the museum’s strategic plan, operating procedures, and hundreds of pages worth of reports. The American Alliance of Museum’s team then evaluates the museums based on in-person visits, documentation, and decades of information. It is the highest professional honor bestowed upon a museum. We are honored to have received reaccreditation.

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New Trustees Join SAMA

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LORETTO—The Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art is pleased to announce six new members who will join the Board of Trustees. This qualified group of leaders will join existing members in overseeing the organization and representing SAMA proudly in the six counties we serve: Bedford, Blair, Cambria, Fayette, Somerset, and Westmoreland. Together they will fulfill SAMA’s mission to preserve, exhibit, and advance American art and bring educational and cultural programs and activities to the people of the southwestern area of central Pennsylvania. Joining the Board of Trustees is Abigail Cook, Robert Crusciel, Fred Danziger, Jr., Brother Shamus J. McGrenra, Dr. Terri Nicole Sawyer, and Aimee Willett.

 

Director Emeritus, Michael M. Strueber, elaborated on the decision to add to the Board of Trustees stating, “I believe the six outstanding new trustees from Altoona, Bedford, Ligonier and Loretto to the Board of the Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art will have a dynamic impact upon the institution. Combined they represent a sophisticated knowledge of art, business, law, philanthropy and strategic planning.”

 

Abigail Cook began her career in banking and international markets and has been recognized as a “top performer” in foreign exchange sales for twenty years.  Currently, her real estate career is “super” hosting Airbnb properties in Pittsburgh and Aiken, SC.  She volunteers for Clothesline in Pittsburgh and Habitat for Humanity in Aiken and is currently President of the Linden Garden Club.

 

Robert Crusciel brings with him a wealth of knowledge in the area of development as well as strong ties to the University. Robert has worked in higher education administration for the past 32 years, with 29 of those being for Saint Francis University. While at Saint Francis University, Crusciel has worked in enrollment management, alumni relations, and major gift fundraising prior to his current position as Vice President for Advancement.  Outside of work, he serves as vice president of the Cresson Lake Playhouse Board of Directors, a finance committee member at the Basilica of St. Michael the Archangel in Loretto, and holds a leadership role with Knights of Columbus, Loretto council.  Crusciel previously served on the board of trustees at Bishop Carroll Catholic High School and the Gallitzin Water Authority.  He and his wife, Julie, reside near Loretto and have three sons, ages 24, 22 and 19.

 

Fred Danziger is an avid art collector, artist, and educator. He is educated at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts in Philadelphia, and his work has been exhibited at over 100 group shows and 18 one-man shows.

 

Brother Shamus J. McGrenra was born and raised in Philadelphia. Brother Shamus has been a Franciscan brother for 55 years and has been involved in higher education since his graduation from Saint Francis University in 1973. During his 48 years of service to the educational community, Brother has held various positions in Enrollment Management including Deanship and served as Director of International Admissions for seven years until his retirement in 2020. Brother Shamus received his undergraduate degree in History from Saint Francis University, an advanced degree in Student Affairs in Higher Education from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and pursued post-graduate studies at Columbia University in the field of student development in higher education.

 

Dr. Terri Nicole Sawyer has a master’s and doctorate in social work.  She has worked with teens and adults for over 20 years.  Currently she is counseling the chronically ill on end-of-life decisions, helping couples and families navigate conflict and assisting individuals with mental health issues. Terri possesses a passion for art and for community. She is also an avid art collector.

 

Aimee Willett has been a practicing attorney in Blair County for over 20 years.  She provides legal services to educational institutions ranging from early education, K-12, and post-secondary education, businesses and non-profits. Her servant leadership includes coaching various high school Mock Trial teams, board member on the Cambria County War Memorial Authority and the ARC of Blair County as well as many committees for Blair County’s Children, Youth and Families and the Commonwealth’s Office of Children, Youth and Families.

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Exhibition Opening: Donald M. Robinson Photography Biennial 2021 

 

LORETTO—The Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art in Loretto’s Donald M. Robinson Photography Biennial 2021 exhibition will take place from April 16, 2021 through June 25, 2021.  The Robinson Biennial is a juried exhibition attracting photographers from across the commonwealth. Cash awards will include a top prize of $2,000 for Best of Show, together with a $1,500 first place award, a $1,000 second place award, and a $500 third place award. A reception on June 5, 2021 from 6:00 p.m.—8:00 p.m. held at the museum will announce the award winners. Cost is $15 for members or $20 for non-members. Reservations are required for the awards ceremony and can be made online or by contacting the museum. The exhibition and events are sponsored by the Donald & Sylvia Family Foundation. 

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In consort with the Donald M. Robinson Photography Biennial Exhibition, which is staged in the Loretto Museum’s Sullivan Gallery, SAMA will be exhibiting photographs from the Museum’s Donald M. Robinson Collection in the Margery Wolf-Kuhn Gallery.  Through the Lens: Landscapes by Donald M. Robinson will be on display from April 16, 2021 through June 25, 2021.

SAMA will host two virtual discussions with the Robinson Photography Biennial Juror, Linda Benedict-Jones. Linda Benedict-Jones is a photographer, writer, and independent curator based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. In 2015, she retired from being the first Curator of Photography at Carnegie Museum of Art. She has also served as Executive Director of Silver Eye Center for Photography and Curator of Education at The Frick, both in Pittsburgh. She taught courses in the history of photography at Carnegie Mellon University for 18 years, from 1999 to 2017. Before moving to Pittsburgh in 1993, Benedict-Jones was Curator of The Polaroid Collection and director of Polaroid’s Clarence Kennedy Gallery in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Benedict-Jones studied at Minor White’s Creative Photography Laboratory at MIT where she earned a master’s degree in visual studies in 1982.

 

On Monday, April 19th at noon, Linda Benedict-Jones will share a selection of photographs by internationally known and regionally recognized artists, from Henri Cartier-Bresson to Esther Bubley, and suggest ways to better understand them in her presentation, Reading Photographs: Thoughts on Visual Literacy. On Monday, May 24th at noon, Benedict-Jones will present Survey of Landscape Photography. Both events will be one-hour virtual discussions and are free to attend. Registration is required on our website to obtain the event Zoom link. Please consider making a donation to the museum to help support this program and other programs offered by SAMA.

 

 In addition to virtual discussions, SAMA will reinstate our Artist Café series inviting exhibiting artists to discuss their work in a coffee house-like setting in person on select Wednesdays from 4:00 pm.—5:00 p.m. For this exhibition, there will be three Artist Café events: April 28, 2021 with Kelly M. Coursey-Gray, May 19, 2021 with Lisa Seligman, and June 16, 2021 with Dave Hammaker. The cost is $5 per person and includes a talk with an exhibiting artist, coffee, tea, and pastries. Advance reservation is encouraged for limited seating.

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SILHOUETTES: FASHION SHOW & PURSE AUCTION

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LIGONIER—The Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art at Ligonier Valley is hosting a very special Fashion Show and Purse Auction on Saturday, May 22, 2021. Wear your favorite hat and join us at SAMA Ligonier for a dynamic show featuring Saint Francis University Costume Designer, Bonnie Resinski presenting, “Silhouettes: A One-Woman Fashion Show”. The event is being held from 2:00 p.m.—4:00 p.m., and the cost is $25 per person. Reservations are required by Tuesday, April 14th and can be made online or by contacting the museum.

 

Experience this wonderful lecture and fashion show by Resinski as she discusses and shares the shapes of modern women’s clothing from the 1890’s to the 1990’s. She will highlight the social, political, economic, and designer influences explaining the fashion trends of the 20th century. Watch the show while sipping a hot cup of tea and savoring scrumptious treats. Throughout the afternoon, stroll through our lovely Museum and bid on a beautiful selection of brand-new purses from regional boutiques and specialty shops. Enjoy other games of chance including a prize given for the “Best of Show Hat” worn during the event. Bring your friends and join us at SAMA Ligonier for a wonderful afternoon full of entertainment, fun and fashion. Refreshments generously sponsored by Aurora Gilmour and Chantel Ventura.

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LOOKING FOR LIGHT IN DARK TIMES: SPECIAL DUAL EXHIBITION

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LIGONIER-The Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art at Ligonier Valley is hosting two special exhibitions this year. The featured exhibition, “Looking for the Light in Dark Times” will be on view in the entry and main gallery. The artists, Jonelle Summerfield and mother, Jolene Joyner will share inspired works of their European travels, rural landscapes, and favorite subjects including animals. The exhibition can be viewed from April 30—July 31 during regular museum hours of operation.

 

An accompanying exhibition, “Back to Woodstock” of 1960’s memorabilia and posters from the Collection of Mark Del Costello will most certainly bring back memories. Step back in time and enjoy these authentic music posters from noted artists including Jimi Hendrix and the Grateful Dead. These featured posters represent the original 1969 Woodstock held August 15-18 on Max Yasgur’s dairy farm in Bethel, New York. 

 

Jonelle Summerfield is an oil painter from Indiana, PA. She received a degree in Interior Design from The Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 2001. She began painting as a hobby shortly thereafter while she worked as a full-time kitchen designer, taking lessons from her mother, Jolene Joyner. Like her mother, she began her artistic career participating in the New Growth Arts Festival and the Indiana County Open Arts Studio Tour in the early 2000s. After taking workshops with other artists she admired, she began to paint full-time in 2012. Aside from her mother, she has taken workshops with Qiang Huang, John Del Monte, Darren Kingsley, Kerry Dunn, and Robert Liberace. Her paintings are impressionistic, and her subjects include interiors, street scenes, animals, and still lifes, among others. European travel is one of her biggest influences, and she travels to obtain her reference photos for each painting. The goal of her work is to depict the good things in life and to provide relief from a chaotic world.    

 

Jolene Joyner of Clymer, PA has had an interest in art since childhood. Though she went to nursing school after graduating from high school and established a forty-year career as a surgical nurse, she resumed her artistic pursuits in her mid-twenties. She has been a member of the Indiana Art Association since the mid-1980s where she met many friends, instructors, and mentors that encouraged her artistic growth. She entered juried exhibits in the region and won many awards while she honed her skills. She later participated in the annual New Growth Arts Festival and the Indiana County Open Arts Studio tour as she gained a following. Notable artists with whom she studied are James Sulkowski, John Del Monte, Darren Kingsley, and Kerry Dunn. Many subjects inspire her, and she is always adding subjects of interest to her repertoire. Favorite subjects include felines, still lifes, scenes from her travels to Europe and beaches of the Caribbean and America's east coast, as well as rural landscapes that include horses and cows.   

 

Join us for an inspirational and enjoyable dual exhibition that is certain to delight all. From reminiscing in time to a journey through Europe and beyond; this SAMA excursion will offer some much-needed light.

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SAMA SPA DAY

 

BEDFORD - The Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art in Bedford is pleased to announce Spa Day has been rescheduled! Unwind from head to toe in this private event, as the museum closes to the public on April 9, 2021 to host a day that is all about you. Guests can purchase one of two levels of moderation with the $10 relaxation package being offered from 10:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. or increase your level of comfort with the $45 luxury package to include a massage appointment between 10:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. See more details and make massage appointments on our website at https://www.sama-art.org/event-list. Must be 18 and over.

 

In the artful style you have come to know and love from SAMA Bedford, enjoy an immersive day of relaxation. Spend an afternoon with your friends with a massage and tea bar hosted by Everything Tea among other refreshments. What could be more relaxing than surrounding yourself with art while sipping a cup of tea? Bringing your favorite robe and slippers for the ultimate level of comfort is encouraged.

 

Bring the whole gang for $10 per person if you want to treat yourself to the Relaxation Package including professionally painted nails, tea bar hosted by Everything Tea among other refreshments, and beautiful art during hours of operation 10:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Arrangements for the Relaxation Package can be made at the door any time during the event or on our website in advance. Those seeking the full experience will need the $45 Luxury Package offered from 10:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. including a twenty-minute massage of the head, neck, shoulder and back plus the opportunity to have your nails freshly painted. Appointments are required for all Luxury Packages and must be made one day in advance.

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LET'S GO HUNTING

 

LIGONIER – The Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art at Ligonier Valley will host its fourth annual Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 27th. Children of all ages are encouraged to participate in the hunt for Easter eggs hidden throughout the Museum’s lawn. The program begins at 1:00 p.m. and will be held rain or shine. SAMA Ligonier is especially honored to have the support of Ligonier Scout Troop 372 helping this year! This event is free to attend but registration is encouraged at https://www.sama-art.org/event-list or by calling (724) 238-6015 or emailing ligonier@sama-art.org. All CDC health and COVID-19 social distancing guidelines will be in place.

 

“Gather your little bunnies and hop on over for an egg-citing Easter egg hunt at SAMA,” said site coordinator Kristin Miller. “We will have eggs galore in our beautiful gardens that will just be starting to show the first signs of spring. Our young guests can exchange their eggs for a wide variety of toys and treats, and we will also be offering hands-on art activities that children can do on-site or take home to enjoy.

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DYSLEXIA, AN ARTIST’S GIFT   ***POSTPONED DATE TBD***

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LIGONIER - The Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art in Ligonier will host a very special presentation on the topic of dyslexia. Join us on Saturday, January 23rd at 2:00 p.m. for this very fascinating and insightful lecture on how dyslexia can be seen differently from the artist’s perspective. The cost for this event is $5 per person and light refreshments will be served. Reservations are required and can be made online at https://www.sama-art.org or by contacting the Museum at 724-238-6015 or ligonier@sama-art.org.

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Dyslexia is defined as a learning disorder that involves difficulty in areas such as reading due to complications identifying speech sounds and learning how they relate to letters and words. Heather Davis sees dyslexia very differently. She feels that dyslexia can be used as a gift and can augment creativity.

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Heather grew up in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania and graduated high school with honors and an art scholarship. She went on to graduate from Rhode Island School of Design with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in painting. Post-graduation, she relocated to Chester County, Pennsylvania and worked in the building trade as a general contractor and chief construction designer of her own corporation. During her time in construction, Heather was a hands-on craftsman leaving a trail of murals, mosaics, and other sculptural elements in her renovation jobs throughout the greater Philadelphia and Main Line area. In 2013, after a life-changing experience, she gave it all up to paint full-time and immediately emerged as an award-winning artist in the prestigious Brandywine Valley.

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In recent years, Heather relocated to beautiful Bedford County, Pennsylvania where generations of her family are from. Her new home includes her dream studio and workshop area where she creates her in-studio works, and the magnificent landscape provides endless material for plein air works. The focus of her 2021 goals has reunited her with past sculptural ambitions as well as commitment to a higher level of painted works. The subjects and compositions include landscapes and people in the greater community and the meaning they bring.

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Kids Virtual Art Camp

 

LORETTO - The Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art in Loretto is pleased to announce its upcoming Kids Virtual Art Camp. The classes will take place the second Saturday of every month from February through May at 11:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. for children ages 6-9 and 12:30 p.m. – 1:45 p.m. for children ages 10-13. Students who are unable to attend every class will have access to the recording. This course costs $40, and it includes an art kit filled with the art supplies necessary to complete the projects every month. Kits can be picked up at any SAMA museum location. See our website visit page for locations, addresses, and hours of operation. Registration is required at www.sama-art.org/events-list. Participants may join using the link provided upon registration for the free Zoom app or website.

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In this four-session virtual art camp, artist Amy Roadman will demonstrate various materials artists use to create art and learn how to use these supplies like a real artist! Join us to create a work of art the second Saturday of each month, February through May, while experimenting with different art materials each session. Make a chalk pastel landscape, an oil pastel portrait, and a watercolor still life. In the last session, we will vote on what subject matter and material from the provided kit to personalize your learning and experience.

 

This camp will enhance observation skills and the understanding of creating the illusion of space through placement, size, and overlapping of objects, atmospheric perspective, and the amount of texture and detail added to each work of art. The difference between sketching and drawing will be discussed and demonstrated throughout the process as well as shading, layering, and color mixing. Each student will be given guidance but encouraged to express his or her own individuality.

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Photography 101 Course

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ALTOONA - The Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art in Altoona is pleased to announce its upcoming photography course starting January 16, 2021. This four-week course compliments the current exhibition at SAMA Altoona – The Implications of the Camera, which explores the history of photography, the future of the medium, and current experimentations.

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Learn about exposure, composition, and the history of photography in this introductory course! This one-month course is taught by former photography professor and current SAMA Altoona site coordinator - Hannah Harley. This course will be entirely online and will focus on the basics of the camera and light (aperture, shutter speed, and ISO) and the history of photography. Attendees can expect four classes, two one on one meetings with the instructor, and one group critique with fellow photographers.

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The classes will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Saturdays – January 16th, January 23rd, and January 30th, and February 6th. Students who are unable to attend the class on Saturday can access the recording afterwards. One-on-one meetings will be organized with the attendee and the instructor. The group critique and final discussion will occur on February 13th. Registration is required and will close January 15th. This course costs $40, and you can register at www.sama-art.org/events-list. This course will take place over Zoom, and students will receive the link to class upon registration.

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The Implications of the Camera Virtual Lecture Series

 

ALTOONA - The Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art in Altoona is pleased to announce its upcoming weekly virtual lecture series on Mondays in January and February to celebrate the opening of the museum’s The Implications of the Camera photography exhibition. These scholarly conversations will explore the medium of photography through its history, contemporary uses, and its possible future.

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The newest exhibition at Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art opens early January upon lifted restrictions from the COVID-19 closure mandates imposed in December. This exhibition spans three galleries and dives into the history of photography, contemporary artists experimentations with it, and the influence and success of artwork reproducibility in the late 1900s. With installations, historic photographs, and masterpieces, this exhibition has something for any 1900s art enthusiast. Exhibition is sponsored by Mr. & Mrs. Michael Streuber.

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This lecture series is designed to present the artworks of the contemporary artists who will be the guest speakers while highlighting the importance of the two galleries of permanent collection pieces. Guests can attend the conversation online or watch the recording after the event. Space is limited and preregistration is required at least 24 hours in advance of the program to receive the Zoom link provided upon registration. Event is free of charge. See the list of series dates, topics, and guest speakers and register to attend on our events page. 

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LIGONIER TO HOST PAINT OUT AND WET SALE

 

Ligonier – The Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art at Ligonier Valley will celebrate its twelfth annual Paint Out this fall. Over the course of September 24 through 26, dozens of artists will visit the Ligonier Valley for the Museum’s popular plein air painting event. For three days, artists will paint a variety of beautiful scenes, from state forests and scenic overlooks to flowering gardens and scenes along Main Street. Artists are also invited to paint two of Ligonier’s most iconic locations: Idlewild Park and Fort Ligonier.

 

Following the three days of painting, the Museum will hold a wet sale on Sunday, September 27 from 1 to 4 p.m. Open to the public free of charge, the wet sale offers an opportunity to make purchases on the freshly painted works. If you are unable to make the wet sale reception, SAMA will be retaining works for view and purchase through Saturday,

October 3.  

 

The Paint Out will offer $500 in cash prizes. The cash prizes are sponsored by the Emma Clyde Hodge Memorial Fund. Artists who are interested in participating in the Paint Out should stop by the Museum or call (724) 238-6015. A $30 non-refundable registration fee is required.

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SPECIAL FALL GARDEN TOUR AT SAMA LIGONIER VALLEY

 

Ligonier- The Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art at Ligonier Valley will host a wonderful fall Garden Tour with Head Gardener, Anne Clark. The tour begins on Friday, September 18 at 1:00 pm in the gardens of SAMA Ligonier. Event will be held rain or shine. Cost for the program is $10 per person which includes seeds that you will harvest and collection packets. To register for the tour or for more information, please call the Museum at 724-238-6015.

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Join Anne and stroll through our lovely gardens as she begins putting our flowers to bed for the winter. Anne will talk about garden design and the proper technique for seed gathering and storage. She will also discuss the various annuals and perennials that need cut back or pulled for the season. You will be able to collect seeds for your own garden. A question and answer session will follow the tour. Call today and register for the garden tour at SAMA Ligonier. It will be a lovely afternoon of gardening delight!

 

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NEW SITE SUPERVISOR APPOINTED FOR SAMA ALTOONA 

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The Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art is pleased to announce the appointment of Hannah Harley as the new site supervisor for the  Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art at Altoona located at 1210 11th Street, Altoona, PA. Harley brings a wealth of experience in the arts to this position. She established and served as the inaugural director of the bustling art residency program, Spruce Arts, in Indiana, Pa. Spruce Arts hosts new and established artists from around the world, to live and work temporarily in Indiana County, immersing themselves in their own artistic practices as well as the local art community. Her background in the arts and non-profit management will serve SAMA well as she assumes her new role in Altoona.

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Harley holds a BFA in photography from Park Point University, Pittsburgh, Pa., and an MFA in photography and related media studies from Parsons, The New School in New York City, N.Y. She has also received a certificate in arts and culture strategy from the University of Pennsylvania. She has previously served as an adjunct professor teaching at Park Point University in Pittsburgh and the Youngstown University in Youngstown, Ohio. Harley has also served as curator for the Clark Gallery in Indiana, Pa. Harley is originally from Indiana, Pa., and is familiar with many of SAMA’s sites and programs.

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Director and Senior Curator, Sarah Henrich shares, “Hannah is a vibrant advocate for the arts and community involvement. Her depth of knowledge of contemporary artists and working with them in her previous positions offer SAMA new avenues of outreach and inclusion of both Pa. and Regional artists in exhibitions featured at SAMA Altoona. I am excited to work with a dynamic, approachable, and engaging individual bursting with ideas to attract community support and interest in the downtown, urban facility. We are pleased Hannah accepted our invitation to join the organization and work to further the arts in Altoona and the region on behalf of SAMA.” A community meet and greet will be scheduled to introduce the community to Hannah Harley at a future date.

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EXPLORE NATURE THROUGH THE EYES OF THE ARTISTS AT

SOUTHERN ALLEGHENIES MUSEUM OF ART AT LIGONIER VALLEY

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If you are looking to delve into the beauty that nature depicts, then this exhibition is for you. Open from August 21, 2020, through October 31, 2020, this multiple artist exhibition will take you through, “Journeys in Nature” capturing the majesty and splendor that nature has to offer.  

 

Kelly Coursey Gray photographs from a unique perspective. She is continuously evolving her artistic vision and adapts to meet the needs of her surroundings.  Kelly is a life-long learner and traveler who enjoys sharing her knowledge and passion with others.  Her photographs tell fascinating stories and you will be captivated by the imagery and emotions they evoke.

 

Richard McWherter is a beloved visual art teacher and photographer. He shares his passion for nature which is clearly demonstrated through his images. His unique expressionistic views offer distinctive perspectives into nature. Richard blurs the lines between photography, drawing, and painting to create beautiful dreamlike imagery that transcends time and place.

 

Vincenzo Spinelli takes everyday ordinary objects and creates undeniable extraordinary creations. He takes whatever twisted, rusted, archaic metal scraps he comes upon and with executed precision, creates sculptures of natural beauty. From delicate rose petals made of copper to towering spirals made of steel, Vincenzo takes the cold, lifelessness of metal and transforms it into the beauty and effervescence of nature at its perfection.

 

Travel with our artists as they share their talents, experiences, and passion through, “Journeys in Nature”. The Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art is pleased to offer our patrons this exciting exhibition from three of our region’s outstanding artists. 

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SAMA Ligonier to Host Two Summer Art Camps

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Ligonier-The Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art at Ligonier Valley is excited to offer two children’s art camps this summer. SAMA’s art camps are taught in small, informal groups to foster each child’s creativity, personal growth, and interest in the arts. 

 

The first camp will be offered for children ages 5-9 from July 6 through July 10 titled, “Create and Play”, taught by artist Amy Roadman. Classes will be held from 9 am until noon. Pre-packaged snacks will be provided daily. The cost for this camp is $125 per child which includes all materials and snacks.

 

During this weeklong camp, children will dream, play, make, explore, and discover. They will use their natural curiosity to explore art materials in new and exciting ways. The children will create mixed media art while having fun with toys then create new toys to take home. This camp will offer social interaction, collaboration, and imaginative engagement through artistic exploration.

 

The second camp, offered for children ages 10-16, will run from July 20 through July 31 titled, “Welcome Back Water”. This camp is being taught by, artist Rita Haldeman. Classes will be held from 1 pm to 4 pm. During this two-week camp, children will be introduced to various unique materials and explore a multitude of techniques. The first week involves an investigation into how different mediums are transformed by the introduction of water. Children will create beautiful works using mediums that react differently when introduced to water thereby creating an altered visual effect. During the second week, students will delve into media art constructing logos and designs using traditional “retro” methodology. Pre-packaged snacks will be provided daily. The cost for this camp is $225 per child, which includes all materials and snacks.

 

Registration should be received no later than July 1, 2020, and includes a $25 non-refundable deposit. All COVID-19 health and safety protocols will be followed. For registration or additional information, please call the Museum at (724)-238-6015. These camps are made possible in part by the Ligonier Valley Education Trust and the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts.  

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SAMA's Postponing Derby Day Gala:

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Due to the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic concerns and recommendations for social distancing, the Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art board members and Gala Chairs have decided to postpone our Derby Day Gala, scheduled for May 2nd, to a later date this year.

 

While we remain committed to our cause, we must stay proactive in following health authorities’ recommendations, while also valuing the health and safety of our donors, supporters, staff, and all attending.

 

As soon as this healthcare crisis ends, we will reschedule the Gala, with the same theme and excitement as planned.  We will share our new date with you in time for your planning and participation.

 

Please visit SAMA's website, www.sama-art.org, periodically during this time. We will continue to provide online programs for our community through our Facebook tutorials and virtual tours.

 

Thank you for your patience and support!  Stay healthy and safe, and we look forward to seeing you at some point in the near future! 

Sincerely,

SAMA Board & Gala Committee Members

 

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SAMA APPOINTS NEW DIRECTOR AND SENIOR CURATOR

 

Barry H. Newborn, President of the Board of Trustees of the

Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art is pleased to announce

the appointment of Sarah E. Henrich to the position of Director

and Senior Curator for the Central Southwestern Regional

Museum.  Ms. Henrich brings 40 years of experience within

the museum field, having held appointments as a Director,

Curator and Associate Professor throughout her career at

posts in New Jersey, New York, Kentucky and Vermont. “We

are fortunate to have Ms. Henrich join the SAMA staff at this

time in our institutional history as we celebrate our 45th year

in operation as the longest operating rural satellite museum in

the nation.  Her extensive experience with many facets of

museum operations and curatorial affairs will provide a rich

basis for working with the five museum sites located in Altoona,

Bedford, Johnstown, Ligonier and Loretto” said President Newborn.

 

Ms. Henrich is a native of Pennsylvania and holds a Bachelors’ Degree in Art History from Muhlenberg College, a Masters’ Degree in Museology from Syracuse University and conducted PhD studies at Drew University in American and British Intellectual Studies.  She has served as a Board member on the Inaugural Smithsonian Affiliates Board, as a member of the New Jersey Historical Commission Board, as well as a reviewer for the Institute of Museum and Library Services grant program.  She currently serves as an accreditation reviewer team member for the American Alliance of Museums.

  

Ms. Henrich’s curatorial experience includes curating international exhibitions to and from Japan, Taiwan and France.  Her expertise is in 19th century American Art with a focus on the Romantic movement, Hudson River School and regional artists of the period.   Her museum experience includes assisting institutions preparing for and celebrating major anniversary milestones such as SAMA’s 45th year in 2021 and recently the 200th anniversary of Norwich University, Vermont in 2020.  She has served as an Assistant and Associate Professor providing instruction in Professional Museum Practices and Curatorial Methods, at both Murray State University, KY and Norwich University in Vermont.

 

"I am very pleased to begin working with all the Trustees and professional staff of the Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art.  I look forward to developing exhibitions and programs recognizing and celebrating their 45th year of artistic offerings for the communities of Central Southwestern PA.  The staff and trustees’ ongoing commitment to this organization and their recognition of the importance of providing high quality exhibitions and arts education, as well as collecting and preserving American art for this region, is exemplary.  It is a privilege to serve as the Director and Senior Curator of this special Museum and its representative satellite facilities in the diverse and unique communities of PA.” said Ms. Henrich.

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