Block of Art thrives in Pottsville despite rainy weather

Apr. 29—POTTSVILLE — Artists converged Saturday in downtown Pottsville to show off their talents during the 15th Block of Art.

The main display was inside the Majestic Theater on North Centre Street, with smaller displays at other nearby locations.

Becki White, a member of the Block of Art planning committee, said Centre Street was expected to be lined with vendors and other artists, but the rainy weather put a damper on the festivities.

"We had a lot of people pull out," White said. "Some even came but decided to leave."

She said Block of Art has a three-fold purpose.

According to White, the event gives artists a non-juried place to display their art; allows free access of the art to the public; and finally, provides a boost for local businesses.

She called the event a win-win for everyone — artists, the public and local businesses.

One artist displaying her crafts was Kathy Connelly, of K. Connelly's Art in Pottsville.

Among her creations were sea glass artwork taken from the Atlantic Ocean near Cape May, New Jersey, laid out around a broken piece of pottery that was also from the ocean.

Another work was a piece of a broken dish surrounded by pressed flowers that were elegantly placed.

Connelly said that Block of Art allows artists the chance to show off their talents and possibly sell some of their pieces, should they decide to do so.

"This is tremendous," she said. "We need more opportunities for artists to display their work."

April Stehr, of Frackville, presented her artwork for the first time on Saturday.

The woman said she has always liked art, but with family commitments, her art "took a back seat."

Now that she has time, Stehr said, she creates art based on scripture and enjoys doing so.

"I like to speak the word," she said.

Her three pieces on display included a photograph entitled "No Darkness," a creation called "Heart and Mind" and finally, a painting of a lion.

Art was also displayed in the form of entertainment.

Musical programs were presented inside the theater by the Majesticks A cappella ensemble, Midlife Crisis, Chasing Rabbits, Sadie Hawkins and Bliss.

Salen said he enjoys looking at and admiring the work of artists, both local and out of the area.

He also said he dabbled in art but decided it was not his best venture.

"The problem is, I'm terrible at drawing. I tried it, but it just looks so bad," he joked.

Bensinger said that once in a while, she will paint at home, but that is the extent of her being an artist.

"We just enjoy looking around," she said.

Kay Jones, of Port Carbon, chair of the Block of Art planning committee, said the organization is community active in showcasing artists' talent, both locally and from out of the area.

She said that in addition to the festival, Block of Art works with artists and art organizations on community art events and projects.

Since its inception in 2007, Block of Art continues to grow, turning into what is now a weekend street festival featuring galleries, activities, musical entertainment and dance performances.

Jones said it is a shame that Saturday's weather forced many scheduled participants to cancel.

"No one has control of the weather, but we're going to do the best we can," she said.

Olivia Bensinger and Eric Salen, both of Pottsville, casually walked around the theater, looking at paintings, photography, modern art and sculpture, to name a few.

Bensinger said she was looking forward to the Block of Art and that the rain didn't hinder her decision.

"We were coming — no matter what," she said.

Contact the writer: fandruscavage@republicanherald.com; 570-628-6013