FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ALLENTOWN, PENNSYLVANIA, July 29, 2024 — Today, the West Park Civic Association announced that its 49th Art In The Park will host a record-breaking 130 artist exhibitors, 18 arts-related community groups, and 10 musical performances on Saturday, September 14, 2024 in West Park. A city block-size oasis of winding paths, lawns, and mature trees located at 16th Street and West Turner Street, West Park is Allentown’s oldest park. Performing at the event will be the Allentown Band, El Sistema Lehigh Valley Orchestra, Church of the Mediator Choir, Civic Theatre, Community Music School, MunOpCo, Repertory Dance Theater, William Allen Dance, and William Allen Marching Band. Food and drink from several vendors will be available. In addition, the Allentown Masonic Temple will again offer free tours of its Lodge building across the street from West Park, an exciting and rare opportunity to see the inside of this important National Historic Site.

The exhibiting artists will exhibit and sell a wide variety of works, from original ceramics, drawings, glass, jewelry, paintings, photography, sculpture, and weaving to art made from recycled or re-purposed materials. Nine of the artists will demonstrate how they create their works.

This year's event promises to be more exciting than ever, with 27 first-timers joining over 100 returning artists. Art in the Park 2024 offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the full spectrum of current artistic trends and get a feel for where the art world is heading.

"Art in the Park has always been about bringing people together through creativity," said Alan Younkin, show director. "This year, we're thrilled to present a remarkably  diverse and dynamic group of artists who truly represent the cutting edge of contemporary art."

Among the exciting new additions to this year's lineup are:

· Judy Holland, who transforms antique porcelain into striking, dynamic sculptures

· Victoria Pitt, whose "remix" style blends Victorian England aesthetics with a contemporary twist

· Sandy Dominguez Santos, a young artist offering a fresh reinterpretation of pop art

· Jack Frank, presenting unexpected interpretations of Van Gogh's work

· Marilyn Fox, exploring the interplay of color, seasonal changes, and human emotion

· Jenny Nahan-Gitley, combining naive painting techniques with feminist themes and modern subject matter

· Peter Italiano, a professional fashion photographer bringing his commercial expertise to fine art

· Julio Rose, offering a modern perspective on everyday surroundings and elevating ordinary objects through art

· Lexi Sabalski, whose linocut prints reimagine urban landscapes, challenging viewers to see cityscapes in new ways

These new artists join a roster of established favorites, ensuring that Art in the Park 2024 will offer something for every taste and interest.

Visitors can expect to find a wide range of mediums and styles, from painting and sculpture to photography and printmaking. The event provides a unique opportunity for art lovers to meet artists in person, learn about their creative processes, and purchase original works directly from the creators.

Art in the Park remains committed to making art accessible to everyone in the community, with free admission and a welcoming atmosphere for art enthusiasts and curious newcomers alike.

"Whether you're a seasoned collector or simply enjoy spending a day surrounded by creativity, Art in the Park 2024 is not to be missed," added Younkin. "It's a celebration of our community's artistic spirit and a chance to support the talented individuals who make our cultural landscape so rich and diverse."

For more information about Art in the Park 2024, please visit Art-in-the-park.org.

Event Details

Date: September 14, 2024

Time: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Location: West Park,

Admission: FREE

Contact: AITP.Allentown@gmail.com

West Park opened on September 17, 1908.

Additional details at art-in-the-park.org.