Over 1,000 people from surrounding communities enjoyed Malvern Retreat House’s extraordinary showcase of many fine art pieces at ArtShow 2013.  This event featured a collection of juried, original artwork by more than 100 professional artists in various media: painting, sculpture, photography, ceramics, jewelry, and glasswork.

ArtShow 2013 ran from Wednesday, January 30 to Sunday, February 3 at Malvern Retreat House’s McShain-Horstmann Family Life Center.  The show offered free admission during this five-day event, and each art piece was available for purchase.  A portion of the sales benefitted Malvern Retreat House.

ArtShow 2013 was well-received by guests in attendance and volunteers.  “I just enjoy the show’s environment and seeing the art,” said volunteer, Maggie Silva (Kimberton, PA), “I like getting a whole behind-the-scenes look at the planning and setup of everything now that I’m a volunteer, too.”

Special events included a Friday Night Social and Artist Demonstrations, which welcomed everyone.  Artist Demonstrations provided interesting details about fine art from three different professionals. 

Lynnette Shelley from Ambler led her artist demonstration “Colorful and Contemporary, the Work of Lynnette Shelley.” She spoke about mythology and folklore influences in art, which are used in many of her mixed media paintings.  Shelley’s dynamic artwork has received wide recognition.

Lancaster County’s Harold Ross presented “Sculpting with Light,” a photography technique using still life.  Ross’ photography displays subjects exposed in a “different light,” which are meticulously applied in each image and is very sculptural in nature. 

Paoli’s Judi Larkin of Larkin Interiors led “Decorating with Artwork.”  Larkin, who specializes in residential design, has a keen eye for selecting paint colors, accessorizing, rearranging, and organizing rooms for each space’s fullest potential.

Guests were also attracted to the Complimentary Wine and Cheese Reception at the event’s Friday Night Social on February 1, which gave the public a chance to meet some of the artists and fellow art enthusiasts.

Even people who attended their first-ever art show were pleased with Malvern Retreat House’s ArtShow 2013.  “I was impressed by the large amount of pieces on display and by the wide variety of styles,” said guest, Mary Harrison (Havertown, PA).

Artists interested in applying to participate in next year’s Art Show are welcome to visit Malvern Retreat House’s website, MalvernRetreat.com, for more information.