For about ten years, mid 70's to 80's, Allentown was graced with a one man art machine. Greg Weaver studied at Carnegie Mellon and then returned to the Valley to become artist, promoter and inspiration to dozens of local artists. His large studios, which moved from one low rent location to another over the years, became hubs for innovation and social activity. He was very prolific with his work, and generous with his encouragement. A typical monthly bash involved perhaps a poster by Mark Beyer( now an internationally known underground comic) performance by a jazz group such as Gary Hassey,(Greg also had a band) and perhaps a new showing by a local artist, such as Barnaby Ruhe. The loft parties were always mobbed, by many of the same people who now attend the Museum social events. This art "scene" cost the taxpayers nothing, it was done by artists, and it was real. Greg suffered from diabetes, and eventually lost his sight. Although blind he continued to produce art and inspire people until his death. Several of his works are in the Allentown Museums' permanent collection and his memory is in the hearts of his friends.
This post, which goes back to the early days of this blog, renewed interest in Greg's art scene and work. It is still my hope that his art and inspiration be given more prominence by the Allentown Museum.
When I had the Verksted in Allentown, I hosted a significant exhibition of Greg's work---to showcase his outstanding talent. The breadth of Weaver's work is and should continue to be an inspiration to our local art scene. It's colorfully visceral and his sense of humor is alive and well. Most frequently known for the cow paintings, which range from 12 inch black and white to 12 foot multi-colored psychedelic renderings of cow faces and even soft sculptures. That Greg had a blast making art is evidenced by his experiments in pigment and materials. He used anything at his fingertips and I own a few pieces that exhibit that tendency: torn paper, glitter, plastic, foil, and more than that he painted with abandon and great style.
ReplyDeleteIn September of this year with the help of Weaver's friends, I will host another exhibit from my studio. Thanks Michael for your continued support of regional artists--you're blog is a gift to us all.
If there was any justice in this world the Allentown Art Museum would have a Greg Weaver wing.
ReplyDeleteAgree with 155pm, I'd love to see a wing, or at least an extended stay exhibit, of Greg Weaver's art as well as other local artists.
ReplyDeleteI went to the Cigar Factory about 9 months ago, I was impressed with what's happening there. We need to remember to focus on local artists, they add character and depth to a community that desperately needs both.
The Banker
Amazing how Greg is lauded today for his work as it should be but I recall he wasnt treated as well back in the day. Im not always inclined to wish for the way it was in days gone by. I am sure that the passion we have today for the good old days is a match for those in the 50/60s who missed there good old days of horse and buggys outside toilets,20 mile speed limits etc,etc. Mike we are from the same generation. I respect your views but also believe for example wait until the days ahead when the era of self driving cars come to be. What a fight we will see between the motor heads against the government.Similar to the current mess with gun control. Motor heads is not my intention to mock those that love driving there cars,love their cars blah ,blah blah. So the bottom line is change will always be a part of life and majority rules.
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