Born in Lancaster, the texture in much of Whitsel's work is a reflection of the 19th century milk glass that her mother collected when Whitsel was a child. Her sense of color was inspired by the natural tones of farmlands and the luminous paintings of Maxfield Parrish, which hung on the walls of her childhood home.
"We've had Keysha Whitsel's work in Radius since we opened three years ago," says Jessica Lantz, curator of arts and assistant manager. "Her work sets her apart from other artists who work in the same medium because of the unique way she infuses color into her designs."
Although Whitsel displayed an early interest in art, it wasn't until settling in Boulder, Colo., that she completed a one-year glassblowing apprenticeship. She later returned to Pennsylvania and resides in Lancaster creating glass bottles, marbles, beads, pendants and jewelry.
Whitsel's art will be featured during an open house at Radius from 1-3 p.m., Sunday, April 6. She will be on hand to answer questions and meet visitors. Light refreshments provided. All items featured are for sale.
Radius, HACC Gallery and Museum Shop, is located on the ground floor of The State Museum of Pennsylvania, Third and North streets. Radius is a partnership of HACC, Central Pennsylvania's Community College and the Pennsylvania Historical Museum Commission.
Radius is open 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and noon-4:30 p.m. on Sunday.
For more information, call 787-5590 or contact Lantz at the e-mail address below.