Author: Victoria Rose

Joseph Stella is an artist that defies categorization. His most recognizable artworks are modernist large-scale tributes to the marvels of the industrial age, Futurist, vivid, and linear depictions of the Brooklyn Bridge and Coney Island that capture the Gothic architecture within. However, the majority of his works took inspiration from the organic, the perfect imperfections of the natural world. “I think he felt transformed by…

Painter’s Folly looms large, not just in the landscape of Chadds Ford, but in the art world at large. It was the home of Howard Pyle, the famed illustrator and fine artist. From his school just next door, he taught luminaries such as N. C. Wyeth, Elenore Abbott, Harvey Dunn, and Charlotte Harding. N. C. Wyeth was close to Pyle, bringing his son Andrew with…

A large empty space, especially one that has an intriguing history and structure, calls to the creative. Taking advantage of it is a challenge to those brave enough for the attempt. This is where The Hook Experiment takes over, transforming abandoned space into a compelling mixed medium and use gallery this weekend. When visiting the Hook Building, “It was love at first sight,” said Mia…

An explosion of color and vibrancy takes over the Brandywine Valley this June. So many events are happening each week, with opportunities to see art and artists at their summer best. From fairs to shows to exhibitions to new experiences, it is a great time of year for art lovers! Stroll through the sixth annual Phoenixville Art Street Festival. Featuring over 50 artists, demonstrations, street…

There is no better way to experience how creative, expansive, and bountiful the local art scene is than by visiting the County Studio Tour. The signs have sprung up throughout Chester County, directing visitors to more than 80 participating studios and galleries featuring over 200 artists. Now in its 13th year, the tour includes the most locations, artists, and pieces of art ever, ready to…

Creating space for art is intentional. Historically, those spaces have been safeguarded for artists from certain backgrounds and roles. Creating space for those who in the past may have been excluded from galleries, exhibitions, and public displays can create unique challenges. Luckily, people have risen to that challenge over the years, leading to exhibitions such as Multiplicities, the show at the Regional Center for Women…

Beautiful exhibitions and shows are opening throughout the Brandywine Valley this month! From flowers to hats, unique artistic techniques to collaborations, the galleries are bursting with new works from the region’s talented artists. Find all the must-see spots at View: Experience the Art of the Chester County Studio Tour at the Chester County Art Association. This is an excellent way to see samples of artworks…

It’s gonna be (an art-filled) May! Take a walk, go for a drive, or stroll through an exhibition while enjoying all that the Brandywine Valley art scene has to offer! The West Chester Spring Gallery Walk is this Friday! On May 5 th from 4 to 8 pm, galleries, businesses, cafes, and other shops invite artists to host Pop-Up Shows for one night only. The…

It all started with a dream: a world-class theater in the heart of Downtown West Chester. A group of art, film, and theater lovers knew the community would support it. But the question was, how do you prove there is an eager audience? Their answer: throw a film festival. Twenty years later, the West Chester International Short Film Festival continues to bring films from around…

When Sunset Hill Jewelers opened in 1983, West Chester looked a lot different. West Chester State College had just become West Chester University. The F. W. Woolworth Co. store dominated the corner of Gay & High Streets, where Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant now sits. Outside of town was more farmland than housing, and . . . well, if the dining scene wasn’t as spectacular…