Members of the OLLI at Penn State Outdoor Art Group will be showcasing their work at an art installation being held September 2–29 in the gallery space of the University Wine Company, a family-owned winery in State College.
In addition to displaying a variety of expressions of traditional outdoor scenes, the installation will present a series of visual art pieces of a unified theme inspired by a poem written by a member of the group. The monthlong exhibition will be highlighted by a public reception featuring drinks and light snacks on Thursday, September 18, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Select art pieces will be available for sale.
Presenting the beauty of nature in a tranquil space
“We are deeply grateful to the University Wine Company for providing their gallery space for our exhibit and for their longstanding support of arts in the community,” said group leader Missy Stephens. “I invite anyone interested in learning more about our wonderful group and viewing the art on display to join us in this beautiful location for what promises to be an enjoyable gathering of arts-minded individuals.”
Creating together as a community of artists
Formed in March 2023, the OLLI at Penn State Outdoor Art Group meets monthly, in peaceful natural settings in and around State College when weather allows, then indoors during the winter. All forms of expression are welcomed and represented, including painting (watercolor, acrylic, oil), drawing (charcoal, graphite, colored pencil), nature journaling, photography, writing, and just about anything else that can be considered art and shared with the group.
Most members of the group have no formal art training, having discovered or rediscovered their creativity later in life, after retiring from other careers. While some members wish to sell their work, many are simply interested in expressing themselves creatively, relieving stress, or rekindling a childhood love of art. They all share a desire to learn and grow as artists and to support one other.
An invitation to express yourself and share
The OLLI at Penn State Outdoor Art Group, like all OLLI Special Interest Groups, is open to OLLI members. If you would like to learn more about this group, you can email group leader Missy Stephens or visit the OLLI Special Interest Group page.