Northwestern Pennsylvania Artists Association's Biennial Show Opens

Contributed photo

The former Under The Clock restaurant at the Boston Store hosts one of the most creative shows in the Erie area this fall. The NPAA is Erie and the surrounding area's premier artists' organization, with active members including nearly every familiar visual artist any art fan can think of.

Two years ago, this show displayed never-before-seen work by Fran Schanz, Jamie Borowicz, Jan Lutz, Mary Hamilton, Dan Byler, Kris Risto, and Michael Tkach – perhaps because the rules governing most exhibits don't apply here. See, there is no jury selecting work, and size restrictions are thrown out the window. NPAA members bring their best work in an attempt to out-do the other members with outrageous, surprising, and finely-honed pieces. In fact, much of the work entered by the membership is created exclusively for this show and will never be shown again.

The space at the Boston Store provides possibly the most accessible venue this show has ever graced. Dozens of pure white 10-foot panels have been installed among the marble columns to ensure a professional gallery experience. This is the best place every two years to see what Erie's visual artists really have to offer. Compare the talent displayed here in photographs, paintings, sculptures, assemblages, and who-knows-what-else will show up to any other region in the country and you will come to the conclusion that our corner of Pennsylvania stacks up nicely. – Bryan Toy

Opening reception: 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4; continues through Oct. 2 // Corner of Eighth and State streets // npaaonline.org