There are many traditions in the planning of the annual Juried Art Show at Phillips’ Mill, which marks its 93rd year this September.
The first is the call for “Signature Image” submissions, when artists from the area are invited to create an image of the beloved, historic, old grist mill located at the sharp bend on River Road just north of New Hope. With nearly two dozen submissions received this year, the competition was fierce.
The Phillips’ Mill Art Committee has announced that this year’s Signature Image, already appearing on show materials and on the Phillips’ Mill website, is “the joyful, colorful and spirited ‘Lights at Night’ by Patricia Allingham Carlson of Hatboro.
“We were thrilled that so many artists entered the competition,” said Gene Underwood, chair of the Signature Image Committee. “All the entrants submitted beautiful work, and gave the committee much to discuss. The winning entry depicts a diverse group enjoying the Mill, and its community spirit helped it win the competition.”
Said Carlson when she learned of the committee’s decision, “I was so honored to learn that my painting was selected, especially when you consider the tradition of the show and the caliber of the artists in our area. When you are accepted at this level, you have arrived.”
When asked about her painting, she said, “I wanted to convey the feeling the Mill exudes, that air of mystery and history. It is a unique painting, on the Expressionist side, not a traditional Bucks County landscape.” She added, “I paint what I like and how I see the world. And I see the world in a lot of colors, many of them bright.”
Carlson’s “Lights at Night,” will be used on all marketing, publicity and advertising materials for the show. Look for postcards, posters and ads as the planning of the show ramps up throughout the summer. The painting will also be exhibited and for sale at the exhibition which will take place Sept. 24 to Oct. 30. Signature Image paintings are often first to sell, having many admirers by the time the Juried Art Show at Phillips’ Mill opens.
Carlson has been creating since she was 5 years old. She works in mixed media and collage, as well as watercolors. Carlson has taught art to adults and children and has been a special education teacher. During the pandemic, she started a YouTube channel, which is growing.
Carlson is a long-time resident of Central Bucks County, and currently resides in Hatboro with her husband, David Allingham, and their miniature poodle, Jazzy.
Phillips’ Mill, the birthplace of Pennsylvania Impressionism, has served as a meeting place for artists since 1929. The Phillips’ Mill Community Association invites and welcomes the membership of all who love and are interested in the arts. For information, visit phillipsmill.org/art/juried-art-show.
Join our readers whose generous donations are making it possible for you to read our news coverage. Help keep local journalism alive and our community strong. Donate today.
