I was in awe on Saturday morning in the unlikeliest place. I visited the Berks County Historical Society for a presentation called Fraktur & Furniture, based on the Pennsylvania German art of Fraktur with some wonderful discoveries. The presentation was filled with wonderful examples of Fraktur – which has me itching to practice – but it was what happened after the presentation that really inspired me to write this post.
Afterwards, we were allowed to wander around the society where they had several temporary exhibits and many examples of local craft, and history in their permanent collection. The Berks County portraiture exhibit was breathtaking, with it’s vibrant colors and fine examples of oil painting. I was so impressed and inspired by the examples shown that I almost couldn’t wrap my head around the fact, that I have never toured the society before! And I’m not joking when I say it’s just ten minutes away from my house, and even though I visited the Henry Janssen library directly behind it on several occasions for genealogical research, I had never visited the societies exhibits. Shameful!
I also toured their permanent collections, and a Civil War exhibit featuring some really great history. And just as I thought I was done, a volunteer asked if I had seen the recently added Boss Car located in the basement? NO! So another twenty minutes spent drooling over the amazing collection that I never knew existed!
Needles to say, I left feeling fully inspired. Not so much to the point of going home to make great art, but just left in awe of the great craftsmanship and history that Berks County has to offer even today. Not too long ago, an article was published on the need to support the historical society as it was financially troubled and that notion jabbed me as I walked around and soaked it all in? How could we let this society fail? I made a small donation during my visit (in addition to paying for the presentation) and I am a member. I’m hoping that others will realize that there is a treasure trove of inspiration in your hometown, don’t let it hide from you! And most of all, support it. Give it a visit once in a while when you’re bored, or in need of a break from the day, or maybe when you feel a creative block? I left feeling filled with ideas and a sense of pride of the rich culture that existed before me.
