Out of Bounds

"Droplets" by artist Susan Benarcik

"Somerset" by artist Scott Pellnat

Extensive summer heat is as disheartening as canned air. Take a break from both and rejuvenate your spirit with a bit of art in nature. 

At the The Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education, temperatures are naturally cooler within their 325 wooded acres. Through September 2, contemplative art compliments the site and season in the show, Out of Bounds. Most museum and gallery exhibits I find constricting. Being outdoors though makes this showing refreshing and in some cases unexpected.

"Mirrory" by artist Caleb Nussear

Much of the work surrounds their main building; at the Fire Pond, indoor gallery, near the picnic grove (yes, bring a picnic!) and in their new Sensory Garden. Maps are available at the indoor gallery. I also encourage you to take advantage of their many lush trails. Get some blood moving again and you might be inspired to create your own nature friendly installation.

Impromptu Work in Progress by young friends

The Cow Connection

1871 was a pivotal year for architecture. Questionable credit is often given to the O'Leary cow for tipping a lantern and starting a devastating fire near the young city of Chicago. Despite how this catastrophe began, the spirit that rose from it is legendary. And continuing.

Willis Tower made w/ Lego's

As several factors are attributed to the fire, so are there many reasons Chicago became noted as an architectural city. Hungry and eager merchants, intact infrastructure and the development of the elevator are but a few components that enabled the city become home to the first skyscrapers. Chicago's spirit for man made sculpture continues today.

BP Pedestrian Bridge

Chicago inspired Skyscraper by Jack, 5

Chicago is credited for another of my favorite firsts. In 1978 the Percent for Art Ordinance was implemented. This decree stipulates that 1.33% of the cost of most construction be dedicated to installing original artwork on the site. The impact of this notion is quite notable. Over 200 cities now consider the arts when big money is on the table.

But, a city is not defined by commerce and policy alone. Mother Nature has certainly made her impact in Chicago. Deep cold winters create a reclusive society 4-5 months a year. Apparently, very reclusive. I see this time as a healing and spawning period. This season provides time to settle and re-establish for growth. Once doors and windows are open, this city celebrates with a vengeance.

Rest well. Design well. Play hard. But take it easy on the cow, please.

Surprise fun at Gateway Park Water Fountain, Chicago, IL

Mom's Cache

My mother, Barbara Burke, was notorious for being prepared. Her time before retirement was dedicated to making her home comfortable for years to come. This included stockpiling art supplies, sadly, not put to near enough use. She did paint. I just always wished her more creative time.

At her passing, I was honored to be responsible for Barbara's art studio. There were a LOT of supplies. Fortunately, many educational materials have found a home at the Lancaster County Art Association. Much will fold into my supplies for future teaching endeavors. Some are comforting a newly inspired artist in our family. And others have gone to a promising and dedicated young painter, Kimberly Timinski. 

Adventure Artist Supply Kit, value $200

The items pictured here will be auctioned on May 12.  Proceeds to benefit the Blue Bell Montessori Children's House Scholarship Fund and Garden (think compost bin!), causes dear to my Mom and our family. Let me know if you have an interest in bidding or otherwise donating. 

Painting 101, $80 value includes paint kit and five canvases

My Mom and I had talked about many of these distributions and I know she'd be pleased with them. There was one thought we didn't have a chance to discuss: the Random Art Supply Fairy. The idea came to me during a bike ride in Fairmount Park. Later this spring and summer,  a few artists along the Schuykill River may have a special encounter with said fairy. I like to think, Barb would approve.