POTTSTOWN PA – Budding, amateur, and professional artists are invited this weekend to capture the beauty of Pottstown in color with a brush.
Pottsgrove Manor, 100 W. King St., will be the site Saturday (July 12, 2025), beginning at 11 a.m., of “Plein Air Pottstown.” The historic museum’s program includes, separately, a presentation on centuries-old art and a later watercolor painting session on its downtown Pottstown grounds.
The early Georgian-style mansion is the restored former home of Pottstown founder and ironmaster John Potts.
Plein air refers to a French phrase, “en plein air,” which translates to “in the open air.” The practice encourages artists to paint what they see while in the presence of nature.
Plein Air Pottstown opens at 11 a.m. with a presentation on 18th century art by artist and researcher Mary Chisak. A Gilbertsville resident, Chisak works in watercolors, pastels, acrylics, and oils. Her art, according to her website, is “inspired by the infinite variety of shapes, colors, and calligraphy found in nature.”
Paint Whatever Nature Reveals
Then, at 1 p.m., the manor will offer the plein air watercolor painting session across its four-acre property. All skill levels, novice to advanced, are welcome, but participants must be age 16 or older. An introduction to watercolor painting will provided to beginners.
Participants may bring their own supplies. Those who need starter materials can buy a $25 pre-made art kit from the manor. All are encouraged to bring a bagged lunch. Be aware that the program depends on acceptable weather. Just in case, an alternate rain date is scheduled for July 19 (Saturday).
Advance registration is required; a form is available online. The suggested donation for those who attend Plein Air Pottstown is $2.
The lessons can continue for those who choose. Pottsgrove Manor says it has planned continued painting instructions each Saturday through Aug. 2 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
For more information, call 610-326-4014 during regular hours (Tuesdays through Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sundays, 1-4 p.m.); or send it an e-mail to PottsgroveManor@montgomerycountypa.gov. The museum is closed Mondays and holidays.
Photo for Getty Images on Unsplash+, used by Travels With The Post under license
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