IN McKeesport Spring 2017 | Page 13

pencils, abstract art, creative finger painting, anime and cartooning, holiday-themed crafts and more. MAG partners with local businesses in planning for members to exhibit their artwork in various locations including medical offices, beauty salons and storefronts. The group has also worked with the Carnegie Free Library of McKeesport on several occasions, leading a “Wine & Canvas Party” to raise money for the library’s many public programs. Many MAG members have received awards and honors at numerous art shows throughout southwestern Pennsylvania sponsored by various organizations including the Norwin Art League, East Suburban Artists League, Greensburg Art Center, Laurel Valley Art Club in Latrobe, Uniontown Art League, Monroeville Arts Council and the Associated Artists of Butler County. Some of the members 2015 Judge’s Choice Award — watercolor “The Guys” by MAG member teach art privately and are Marla Kalning. members of other local to accommodate students, those who work or organizations including the Pittsburgh Watercolor Society and the Associated Artists others who cannot otherwise attend during of Pittsburgh. the day. MAG’s mission is to create, foster and “We welcome artists of all skill levels, ages promote an interest in the arts throughout and interests to join us, share your ideas McKeesport and the Greater Mon Valley and get involved in our events; art is for region, and to support and encourage everyone!” says Catalogna. regional artists and craftsmen by providing a Each year, the art group also holds an “Art showcase for their work. MAG is dedicated in the Park” event in October at the Woll Pavilion where free art classes and workshops to supporting and fostering the creativity of beginners, students, long-time amateurs, are offered. In recent years, the workshops skilled artists or anyone who enjoys drawing, have included basic instruction in colored painting, sculpting or crafting. Its events and annual spring show welcome participation by people of all ages and skill levels. MAG believes that art can be a hobby, a passion, an escape and even therapy for those under stress. For more information about membership, meetings, upcoming art shows and other events, visit mckeesportartgroup.com, the group’s Facebook page or contact Janice Catalogna at 412.469.2710. n are invited to attend meetings on the third Monday of every month at the Jacob Woll Pavilion. Most meetings include a short business session, followed by a demonstration or presentation by a local accomplished artist or craftsman. Meetings held between October and April take place in the early afternoon, whereas meetings from May through September begin in the early evening MAG will host its 59th Annual Spring Art Show May 19 through 21 at the Jacob Woll Pavilion on Sycamore Drive in Renziehausen Park. Friday, May 19, is designated as Opening Night. Winning artists will receive awards, and light refreshments will be served. Visit MAG’s website for show hours. Gail Rogers poses with the portrait of her dog that she created at the MAG October 2016 “Paint Your Pet” event. A work in progress at the October 2016 “Paint Your Pet” event conducted by MAG. 2015 Judge’s Choice Award — acrylic painting by MAG member Lois Page. McKeesport Area | Spring 2017 | icmags.com 11