Overview of the 2016 Spring Art Show & Sale .
A Tradition of Art
The McKeesport Art Group fosters , promotes and supports the arts throughout McKeesport and surrounding areas .
Story and Photos Submitted by Norma Rowley
What began in 1958 as an exhibit by six local artists — Francis Linehan , Jack Loveall , Wesley Lund , Jeff Madden , Robert Madden and George Merriman — has grown to be one of the most anticipated art shows in the McKeesport area . Now , 59 years later , the McKeesport Art Group ( MAG ) is still going strong .
MAG ’ s first exhibit was held in “ Le Chalet de Poulette ,” a refurbished chicken coop in Edward Servov ’ s backyard in Greenock . Following its initial private preview at that location , the exhibit was moved to the building display windows at the corner of Walnut Street and Sixth Avenue in McKeesport . With that first exhibit , a McKeesport tradition was born .
The annual event didn ’ t initially offer awards or prizes but , as the event grew , local art professionals were enlisted to judge the entries and award prizes .
Today the annual show attracts artists throughout the Mon Valley and typically includes approximately 125 entries . Artwork is accepted in Open , Amateur and Student categories , and may include oils , acrylics , watercolors , mixed media , photography , digital art and sculpture ( 3D ). Artwork entered in the show is usually available for purchase , or may be designated by the artist as not for sale .
MAG ’ s current president is Janice Catalogna , and all local artists and craftsmen
2015 Judge ’ s Honorable Mention Award — artwork by Myla Klipa Pearce .
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