July 12 - September 6, 2009

This is Berks County’s largest juried art exhibition, showcasing most media including watercolor, oil, acrylic and pastel paintings as well as photography, sculpture, fiber art and more. What started out as a small regional show, first held at the Museum in 1977, has grown into an open event that has attracted national and international entries from as far away as Columbia, South America. The show attracts from 350 to 500 entries each year vying for $3000+ in awards.

The jurors this year are Nancy Barch and Douglas Wiltraut. A Delaware County artist, Barch has garnered a number of coveted awards for her work in a variety of media. Wiltraut is one of America’s foremost painters in egg tempera and dry brush watercolor.

The Opening Reception will be on Sunday, July 12 from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. Awards and sponsor purchases will be announced at 5:00 p.m. There will be refreshments and music will be provided by Jack Keller, classical pianist (free with regular Museum admission fee).

This year, about 120 works will be displayed, selected from 340 entries. Eleven cash awards will be presented to artists of the best of works in the show. Throughout the show, you can vote on your favorite works of art for the People’s Choice Award that will be presented to the winning artist at the end of the show in September.

For a complete timetable and more information including jurors, eligibility, entry fees and requirements, click here to download a PDF version of the official flier. To download a PDF version of the Entry Condition Report, click here. BAA Exhibition Chairperson is Kay Lessig, 610-775-5245.

To read Ron Schira's review in the Reading Eagle (July 12, 2009), click here.

A Short History of the Berks Art Alliance

The Berks Art Alliance had its beginnings in November of 1941 as a fellowship of artists, both professional and amateur, with a common goal. That goal has always been to encourage artists by providing workshops, exhibition opportunities and information to keep the artistic momentum alive and growing in Berks County. The Alliance actively reaches out to the community by participating in art demonstrations, collaborating with other creative groups and supporting charitable organizations. The organization began as “The Art Haven Guild of Berks County” and later changed its name to the "Berks Art Alliance” in 1947. The first annual membership exhibition in March 1944 was held at its studio and gallery at 538 Centre Ave, Reading. That show continues today at the BAA’s present home at the Institute Of The Arts in Wyomissing. The BAA also continues to host an annual Juried Art Exhibition, inaugurated in 1977 by, then president, Phyllis Staubach. Today, with over 300 active members, the BAA continues a legacy of fostering passion for the arts in Berks County. They welcome new members and actively seek interaction with other art organizations. Contact information: Fred and/or Deb Gurman, 610-371-2028 (h), 610-698-0064 (c)