In the heart of Harmony, a small town in Western Pennsylvania, lies a treasure trove of artistic expression – the Bottlebrush Gallery & Center for the Arts. This 5,000 square-foot haven for creatives is a testament to the power of community and artistic collaboration. As one of its owners, MJ McCurdy, puts it, “It’s almost like the building itself is an art piece.”
The gallery features an impressive array of art pieces from various mediums, including paintings, masks, and even a lamp with a fish for a base. The walls are adorned with works by 85 talented artists, each contributing their unique style and perspective. The sheer diversity of art on display is a reflection of the gallery’s commitment to providing a platform for artists of all skill levels. One of the standout features of the gallery is its ability to host art shows and exhibitions, which are open to artists of all experience levels. MJ McCurdy notes, “We have everything you can imagine here, and 85 artists – you can’t beat it.” The gallery receives between 30 and 40 pieces of art for every show, showcasing the enthusiasm and dedication of the artistic community. The gallery’s history dates back to 2008, when it was first established as a mainstay in Harmony. However, it wasn’t until the McCurdys purchased the building in 2011 that the gallery began to flourish. Dennis McCurdy, one of the owners, had already been booking musicians at the gallery for years, but after the news of the gallery’s impending closure, he approached his wife with a different idea – to turn the gallery into an art gallery. MJ McCurdy recalled, “I went home and said, ‘How would you like to own an art gallery?’ … The next morning she woke up and said OK.” The McCurdys’ vision for the gallery has been a resounding success, with the Bottlebrush Gallery becoming a beloved fixture in the community. In addition to its artistic offerings, the gallery also hosts a record store, Last Dog Records, on the upper floor. Dennis McCurdy spearheaded the project, which has built a loyal following among vinyl enthusiasts. The store’s inventory has grown significantly over the years, and visitors often spend hours browsing the shelves. The gallery’s community-building efforts are another notable aspect of its success. MJ McCurdy notes, “This town is a gem, it really is. So many interesting people.” The Bottlebrush Gallery has become a hub for community events, including Christmas markets and New Year’s Eve celebrations. These events not only attract visitors from across the state but also foster a sense of camaraderie among the community. The gallery’s approach to supporting emerging artists is a key aspect of its mission. MJ McCurdy emphasizes, “They just need a chance sometimes.” The gallery provides a platform for artists to showcase their work, regardless of their level of experience. As she puts it, “We sell records every day. It’s not just once in a while.” The gallery’s commitment to artistic expression and community-building has earned it a reputation as a truly unique and special destination. For those interested in exploring the Bottlebrush Gallery & Center for the Arts, a visit to its website at bottlebrusharts.com is recommended. With its diverse range of artistic offerings, community-focused events, and commitment to supporting emerging artists, the gallery is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in art, music, and community-building. Key Features:
• 5,000 square feet of artistic expression
• 85 talented artists showcased in the gallery
• Art shows and exhibitions open to artists of all experience levels
• Last Dog Records, a record store with a loyal following among vinyl enthusiasts
• Community-focused events, including Christmas markets and New Year’s Eve celebrations
• Commitment to supporting emerging artists and providing a platform for artistic expression
| Artist | Medium | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Local Artist 1 | Painting | Original oil painting of a landscape, featuring vibrant colors and bold brushstrokes. |
| Guest Artist 2 | Sculpture | Handmade ceramic sculpture of a mythical creature, showcasing intricate details and textures. |
| Emerging Artist 3 | Photography | Black-and-white photograph of a cityscape, showcasing the artist’s unique perspective and composition. |
The Bottlebrush Gallery & Center for the Arts is a testament to the power of artistic collaboration and community-building. By providing a platform for artists of all experience levels, the gallery has become a beloved fixture in the community. So many interesting people.” For those interested in exploring the gallery’s offerings, a visit to its website is recommended.