In a nod to the rich artistic heritage of Bucks County, the Kalmia Club announces the exclusive sale of prints on canvas of “Village Road,” a significant painting by Fern I. Coppedge, a luminary in the American Impressionist movement during the early to mid-20th century.
This limited-time sale is a fundraiser to support the Kalmia Club’s various community service initiatives and scholarships for local young women. The women’s club was founded in Lambertville, N.J., in 1892 and has served the community for over a century.
Coppedge, who moved to New Hope in 1920 and became part of the New Hope School of Artists, donated the painting to the club decades ago. For 30 years, she traveled between Bucks County and her studio in Philadelphia, exhibiting for many years with a group of women known as “The Philadelphia Ten Painters.”
“Kalmia Club is delighted to offer our community the chance to buy affordable prints of a painting by such an important female painter with so many ties to our community,” said club member Polly Anderson, who is facilitating the sale. “This particular piece is a rare departure from the artist’s norm because it includes a person, a very distinctive element that makes ‘Village Road’ particularly exceptional.”
The featured painting, currently gracing the walls of the River House at Odette’s in New Hope, showcases Coppedge’s unique style. Many of her creations, including this one, originated in the Lumberville area, a hub for artists during her time. Measuring an impressive 30 inches by 30 inches, this painting is large for a Coppedge. Another unique note: Her snow scenes were actually painted outside during cold snowy days.
The sale offers two sizes: the original 30-by-30-inch and a smaller 20-by-20-inch option. The deadline for orders is Dec. 1, just in time for holiday giving. The last order date is Jan. 15, and interested buyers can find order forms and additional information at kalmiaclub.org or by contacting Anderson at pollyand53@gmail.com or 609-598-1120.
Coppedge’s artistic legacy is characterized by vibrant and expressive depictions of the local landscape, capturing the essence of Bucks County’s picturesque charm. Her mastery of color and light, particularly in rendering the changing seasons and rural scenes, contributed significantly to the regional art scene.
“Kalmia has owned the print since Fern so generously donated it to the club decades ago, but until recently we haven’t been able to show it publicly or to offer prints,” Anderson said. “The fact that anyone buying a print is helping provide scholarships while adding a wonderful addition to the walls of any home is an added bonus.”
The nonprofit Kalmia Club is dedicated to personal growth and friendship through social, educational, cultural and civic programs. Funds raised from this initiative will also contribute to the preservation of Kalmia’s historic archives and clubhouse, which dates to 1893. Kalmia Club is open to any area woman and encourages participation in various committees.
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