CLEARFIELD – Jody Grumblatt, director of the Liddle Gallery, shared about the fine arts and crafts showcased at the gallery during Tuesday’s Clearfield County Commissioners’ meeting.
The gallery is owned by Grumblatt but is a co-op for area artists to display their artwork. It is located at 109 E. Market St. in downtown Clearfield.
According to her, many “wonderful artists” display paintings, photography and sculptures. She noted one gentleman brought in a powder horn with a map of Clearfield.
Grumblatt became acquainted with many area artists through her association with the Susquehanna River Arts Center (SRAC). When learning the previous owner planned to close the gallery’s doors, she spoke about it with a friend.
Her friend who wishes to remain unnamed expressed interest in investing in the gallery if Grumblatt took over as owner. “After a lot of thinking, I decided to undertake the project,” said Grumblatt.
Before re-opening the gallery’s doors for the community, Grumblatt completely renovated its interior to “make it nice and elegant.” She also wanted to provide an uplifting atmosphere for area artists.
As an artist, she said it’s difficult to find opportunities to display and make works available for sale. She said artists must sell their works to support their love for art.
Grumblatt said at the Liddle Gallery, visitors will find paintings, crafts, jewelry, pottery, soaps and candles. Only area artists may display their works at the gallery, she said.
Since re-opening four months ago, Grumblatt has developed relationships with the Clearfield Revitalization Corp., Visit Clearfield County and the Clearfield Chamber of Commerce.
If the gallery is to grow within the community, she said it’s important to collaborate with local organizations and businesses. For example, she said for her Sip & Paint program, she works closely with area wineries.
In addition to displaying artwork, Grumblatt also offers programs at the Liddle Gallery. She currently offers “Sip & Paint,” art- and craft-related birthday parties and afternoon craft programs for children.
In the future, Grumblatt said she will explore offering classes for painting, pottery, jewelry-making, etc.
“It’s a very unique business and landmark,” said Commissioner Mark B. McCracken. “It adds a lot to East Market Street and to downtown Clearfield.”
McCracken noted he’s attended programs at the Liddle Gallery and particularly enjoyed learning the background of the artwork from the artist.
Commissioner John A. Sobel, chair, said he was astonished by the artistic talent in the Clearfield area, including the fine arts, music and performing arts.
Grumblatt said since opening the gallery, she’s worked closely with Perry Winkler of the Winkler Gallery of Fine Art in DuBois. She said she’s been working with the CRC to establish an Arts Alliance in Clearfield.
For more information, please contact the Liddle Gallery at 814-765-5700. The gallery is open from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.