The Gmeiner Art & Cultural Center is very pleased to announce a new Main Gallery exhibit for May featuring husband and wife artists Anthony and Lisa Arkus. Anthony is a contemporary blacksmith and Lisa paints in a quirky primitive style. Locals and visitors may have seen the Arkus’ work at the Laurel Festival or other regional festivals. This exhibit open with a free reception for the public on Saturday, May 11^th from 2-4PM. Light refreshments will be served. This exhibit will only be on display until Sunday, May 26^th.

Lisa and Anthony Arkus live in the mountains of Potter County, PA with their 2 cats. Lisa was introduced to art at a very early age with an abundance of art supplies and the freedom to create, which has been a large influence on the self-taught artist she has become.  When Lisa began selling her art full time 25 years ago, painting was her main medium. She has since begun adding vintage and handmade papers, along with other mediums. Each piece Lisa creatse is a story in its own right, a testament to innocence, the magic of childhood, and the world of make-believe.   In her spare time Lisa tends to her amazing flower gardens, which are a source of inspiration for her artwork.

Anthony began as an apprentice in Vermont in the 1970s, where he was trained in traditional blacksmithing. Anthony then began his own shop, creating original designs. Anthony is a full-time blacksmith. creating both functional and sculptural pieces. His original designs are inspired by nature and expressed in metal by hand forging using both ancient and modern tools and techniques, creating a harmony of design and function. He uses raw materials such as steel, copper, and brass, in bar stock, sheets, and plates which are shaped and formed with a coal and propane forge.

The Gmeiner is open from 12-6PM Tuesdays through Sundays and is located at 134 Main Street in Wellsboro behind the Green Free Library. Admission to the gallery is free.