Capacity Crowd Celebrates Works Of Selma Burke At New Hope Show Opener

NEW HOPE, PA — The Phillips’ Mill Community Association was buzzing with energy and artistic pride as a capacity crowd gathered on May 30 to celebrate the opening preview of the Selma Burke Invitational African American Art Show.

The landmark exhibition, running now through June 29, pays homage to one of America’s most influential artists and educators — Selma Burke, a longtime New Hope resident and central figure in the Harlem Renaissance.

The evening drew an impressive and passionate cross-section of artists, collectors, civic leaders, and art enthusiasts from across Bucks County and beyond. Guests were greeted by State Senator Steve Santarsiero, who personally thanked the artists, curators, and patrons for bringing this important cultural celebration to life.

Representatives from State Rep. Tim Brennan’s office, including Lloyd Morgan and Kelly Whitman, were also in attendance to show their support.

State Senator Steven J. Santarsiero with Phillips’ Mill President Jane Ford-Hutchinson.

The exhibition, which officially runs through June 29, features more than 60 dynamic works by Black artists Burke taught, mentored, or inspired. Works range in price with many artists internationally collected and museum-exhibited. Notable artists in attendance included:

• Kimberly Camp, former president and CEO of the Barnes Foundation and founding director of the Smithsonian Institution’s Experimental Gallery, who shared heartfelt stories about Burke’s mentorship and exhibited several signature dolls
• James Dupree, whose vibrant work has been showcased from Harlem to Copenhagen
• Ron Tarver, Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer and acclaimed visual artist
• Lee Johnson, a rising local talent whose presence underscored the exhibit’s commitment to celebrating emerging voices

Both Camp and Duprée shared personal stories of their experiences with Selma Burke.

Opening night also welcomed leadership from the Bucks County Foundation, including Executive Director, Mandy Mundy and Peter M. Van Dine, recognizing the foundation’s vital grant support in helping bring the exhibition to life. Jane Ford-Hutchinson, president of Phillips’ Mill, and Mary Flamer, chair of the Selma Burke Show Committee, greeted visitors alongside many Mill members
and art patrons.

The night before the public preview, Phillips’ Mill hosted a special sneak peek for regional arts professionals, welcoming representatives from the James A. Michener Museum, Grounds for Sculpture, The Princeton University Art Museum, Hicks Art Center, and the newly formed African American Museum of Bucks County. Their enthusiastic responses and praise reflect the wide cultural impact this exhibition is already making.

The show’s Selma Burke Collection, on loan from collectors, several from the local community, is a meaningful centerpiece in the exhibition. Burke’s legacy — most famously her sculpted relief of President Franklin D. Roosevelt used on the U.S. dime — is both preserved and elevated in this landmark show.

Phillips’ Mill President Jane Ford-Hutchinson with Mandy Mundy and Peter Van Dine from the Bucks County Foundation.

Visitors continue to express excitement over the show’s vibrancy, storytelling, and the opportunity to learn about a figure who shaped American art and empowered generations of artists. The exhibition not only honors the past but invigorates the future of Black art in Bucks County and beyond.

The special exhibition is open weekends from noon to 5 p.m. and select artwork is available for purchase, supporting the Mill and the artists it represents. More at PhillipsMill.org.

Phillips’ Mill Community Association, located at 2619 River Road, New Hope, has been a home for the arts since 1929. To learn more about the Selma Burke show, and about the historic gristmill, its illustrious history as the Birthplace of Pennsylvania Impressionism, other events, and
membership, visit phillipsmill.org. Questions? info@phillipsmill.org, 215-862-0582.