Greg Weaver Art Scene

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. The image here is from Mark Beyer, representing an invitation to a Weaver event.

above reprinted from September of 2007

UPDATE OCTOBER 3, 2019.  Last night city council temporarily postponed giving the administration $100,000, so that the Arts Commission can hire a  private consultant to promote art spaces in the city.  In a city with a tax raise of 27%,  this is nonsense.   In addition to the  Allentown Art Museum and the Baum Art School, there are private galleries and artist studios.  Although I am a strong supporter of the art community, let city hall concentrate on providing efficient government in a fair way.  Those interested in art will visit the museum and private galleries on their own motivation, without our tax dollars.