The Hall is Decked: Parkersburg Art Center displays trees inspired by artists
Parkersburg Art Center Artistic Director Abby Hayhurst and Managing Director Jessie Siefert collaborated on this tree inspired by the work of Brazilian artist Ione Saldanha. (Photo provided by Parkersburg Art Center)
Caroline Eels and Chuck Swaney constructed this tree based on the work of artist Yayoi Kusama. (Photo provided by Parkersburg Art Center)
This tree based on “The Sheaf” by Henri Matisse was created by Parkersburg Art Center Board members Kelley Cartwright and Kasey Snyder. (Photo provided by Parkersburg Art Center)
This tree inspired by the work of French painter Odilon Redon was decorated by Parkersburg Art Center Board member Rachel Poling. (Photo provided by Parkersburg Art Center)
Parkersburg Art Center Artistic Director Abby Hayhurst and Managing Director Jessie Siefert collaborated on this tree inspired by the work of Brazilian artist Ione Saldanha. (Photo provided by Parkersburg Art Center)
Caroline Eels and Chuck Swaney constructed this tree based on the work of artist Yayoi Kusama. (Photo provided by Parkersburg Art Center)
This tree based on “The Sheaf” by Henri Matisse was created by Parkersburg Art Center Board members Kelley Cartwright and Kasey Snyder. (Photo provided by Parkersburg Art Center)
This tree inspired by the work of French painter Odilon Redon was decorated by Parkersburg Art Center Board member Rachel Poling. (Photo provided by Parkersburg Art Center)
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PARKERSBURG - The Parkersburg Art Center has once again transformed its galleries with the annual Artist Tree Display.
Open through Dec. 21, this holiday tradition showcases an array of Christmas trees decorated to represent famous artists and iconic works of art.
This celebration is the result of a collaborative challenge to PAC's staff, volunteers, board members and community groups: Design a tree inspired by an artist or masterpiece.
"This is more than just a decoration contest; it's a celebration of creativity and community," said Abby Hayhurst, artistic director at the PAC. "Each tree tells its own story and reflects the talent and imagination of its designer(s)."
This year's contributors include a mix of seasoned artists, educators and community groups. "I Spy" self-guided tour sheets are available at the reception desk. Those who complete the "I Spy" challenge can take the sheets to the gift shop (PAC 713 Market) for a free crafting kit.
Visitors are invited to vote for the People's Choice Award by making a donation in silver bins placed near each display.
Funds will go toward PAC's Saturday Arty Party series, a free program running from Jan. 4 to March 15 that provides hands-on art activities designed for kids ages 4-10 with an adult.
"Programs like the Saturday Arty Parties bring families together in a creative way and make art accessible to everyone, regardless of their background, economic situation or skill level," PAC Managing Director Jessie Siefert said. "The funds raised through the Artist Tree voting will help ensure we can keep these opportunities free."
The display is open during PAC's regular hours, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays.
This year's Artist Tree event is made possible through support from the West Virginia Humanities Council, the state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities.
More information is available by calling 304-485-3859 or emailing info@parkersburgartcenter.org.