A few weeks ago I made a trip to Central Pennsylvania to deliver my artwork to the Robeson Gallery at Penn State, and while I was there I was hoping to explore some historic neighborhoods. Overwhelmed by the possibilities, I relied on my GPS to lead me to a local museum, and I was delighted by what I found. Not far from Robeson Gallery was the picturesque Victorian town of Bellefonte. As my daughter and I were walking up the tree-lined streets, we happened upon the Bellefonte Art Museum. We tentatively entered to be warmly welcomed by a local artist, Holly Fritchman

“Hornets’ Nest” by Holly Fritchman

Holly told me a little about the museum, but I was most impressed by the community spirit and inclusion of local artists. The museum has an Artist Registry that has grown from around forty to over 200 participants. The artists in the registry show their work in the Community Gallery on the upper floor.

The Architectural and Design Gallery

I found the permanent collection of Victorian hand art very intriguing.

Also on display at the Museum is a exhibition about Anna Wagner Keichline, an “architect, inventor, suffragist and intelligence agent” who lived from 1889-1941.

I couldn’t have stumbled upon a more perfect Museum for a Saturday afternoon. If you are in the area, it’s a perfect place to visit.