14th Annual Scenes of the Schuylkill Art Show

This world is but a canvas to our imagination. -- Henry David Thoreau

The beauty and character of the Schuylkill River region has ignited the imagination of artists for centuries. For 14 years, our annual Scenes of the Schuylkill art exhibit has shined a spotlight on the many artist who, today, are inspired by the river and the communities and natural lands along its corridor.

Every year we are amazed at the variety of subjects, mediums and styles of submitted pieces. Even more impressive is number of truly talented artists who enter the show. This year was no exception.  In fact, we think it is our best exhibit to date. But don't take our word for it! Come see it for yourself. The show features 96 original works of art by over 60 artists. It is on exhibit at Montgomery County Community College West Campus Gallery at 16 W. High St. in Pottstown from November 2-December 17.  

1st Place, Abandoned Church Building, oil by Shamarukh N. Billah

2nd Place, Great Blue Heron on the Schuylkill River, collage by Veronika Berry

3rd Place: Essence, watercolor by Steven J. White

Click here to see more 14th Annual Scenes of the Schuylkill Selections

Juror Rachel McCay, assistant curator at the Woodmere Art Museum in Philadelphia, had the difficult job of judging the show. She reviewed 128 submissions, naming first, second and third place winners, as well as two honorable mentions for photography and two for paintings.  In addition, she chose a total of 15 pieces for an extended exhibit. Those pieces will be moved to the Walk In Art Center in Schuylkill Haven from December 20-January 31. A staff choice award was also selected by the Schuylkill River Heritage Area staff.

A special addition to this year's show!! 

We are excited to announce that artist Becky Morris is creating a hand carved Schuylkill River inspired wood panel that will be posted outside the gallery beginning Nov. 15!

Here's what Juror Rachel McCay had to say about the show:

Examining this year’s submissions for the 14^th annual Scenes of the Schuylkill exhibition, I was surprised to see how many artists depicted the same or similar subjects. Interpretations of the same bridge, waterway, or farmhouse demonstrate each artist’s unique ability to capture the beauty of their chosen scene and yet reveal striking similarities. I hope that my selections communicate how one person’s work is unknowingly related to another’s and how the experience of the Schuylkill River is shared by many. This connectivity will hopefully inspire visitors to see that their point of view is echoed by their neighbors throughout the Schuylkill River Heritage Area. It was a delight and an honor to serve as this year’s juror.

 Visit our website to learn more about the art show.