The reception Sunday, March 18, 1 to 3 p.m., kicks off the showcase that will run through June 15. This will be the first of rotating showcases to fill newly expanded space of the Radius gallery.
This furniture showcase is an example of how Pennsylvania German traditions abound in the Susquehanna Valley. These traditions are revealed in much of the region's highly valued antique furniture, simple paint-decorated work, handcrafted in the style of the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
Work to be on display was handcrafted by period furniture makers who are affiliated with the Susquehanna Artisans Guild through an initiative organized by SEDA- Council of Governments' (SEDA-COG) Furniture Making Venture in Lewisburg.
"This special showcase demonstrates the fine art of furniture making - an area of study we plan to expand in our cabinetry program in fall of 2008 at HACC's Midtown Campus," said Linda Lefevre, HACC associate dean, Business, Hospitality, Engineering and Technology Division. "Furniture design and production will be available to students interested in acquiring specialized skills for either personal or professional use. Students will have the choice of a one-year certificate or a two-year associate degree in cabinetry millwork."
Radius and its showcase area where the Furniture Makers display is located, serves as a sales outlet for high-end crafts produced by HACC's Crafts Marketing as well as select items from the Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen, which includes many HACC students as members.
As partner for the furniture showcase at Radius, SEDA-COG is a publicly funded economic and community development organization that pursues numerous opportunities with the potential to benefit the Susquehanna Valley financially, socially and culturally.
The objectives of the SEDA-COG's Furniture Making Venture are to revive an aspect of the Pennsylvania Germans' cultural tradition, create new interest in the region's furniture-making traditions, help sustain regional furniture-making skilled artisans of the region and generate business and job opportunities among skilled artisans or the region.
Funding for the furniture showcase was provided through the Appalachian Regional Commission and the PA Department of Community and Economic Development.
Radius, HACC Gallery and Museum Shop hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays, and noon to 5 p.m. Sundays. The shop and museum are closed Mondays.