Whether you are familiar with the artwork of P. Buckley Moss or not, you owe it to yourself to visit the museum that exhibits her artistry. Indeed, it may seem quite lofty to devote an entire building to showcase the paintings of one artist. However, once you have visited this perfectly replicated 19th century home that houses the extraordinary permanent work of this unique artist, it will make more sense.
Walking through the galleries, you may feel a sense of familiarity when viewing her work. Pat, as she prefers to be known, draws images that can easily be relatable to the masses. Kids playing in the snow, building snowmen, riding a horse on a carousel, or puling a sleigh through the snow, holding a wrapped gift are images we have not only experienced, but if they aren’t, we can well imagine it. Her collection of animal prints, though simple in concept, highlight the use of tiny brushstrokes to create the details like those found in a swan’s plume against a highly detailed outdoor landscape backdrop.
Pat’s biography is a rather interesting one. Born and raised in Queens, NY (a borough of New York City) in 1933, Pat began painting an early age. Having discovered she was dyslexic, her mother placed her in a high school that fostered her talent as an artist. After marriage and pregnant with her sixth child, Pat became enamored with the Mennonite people, which is reflected in many of her paintings. Winning her first prize for a one-person exhibition in 1967 inspired Pat to open a gallery to exhibit her work to both locals and visitors to the Shenandoah Valley.
In addition to being an artist, Pat set up a foundation in 1955 to keep art in the public school system. Recognizing that not all children are encouraged the same way she was, it is important to Pat that all kids be exposed to art, especially those children with special needs.
Come and enjoy the unique and world-renowned artwork of P. Buckley Moss. 50 P. Buckley Moss Drive, Waynesboro, VA 22980, (540) 949-6473, (800) 343-8643
Museum hours; Monday–Saturday 10 am to 5 pm
Sunday 12:30 pm to 5 pm
On the web: http://www.pbuckleymoss.com or feel free to call them.