NEPA Scene Staff

Austin Burke auctions his original artwork at the Scranton Cultural Center

Austin Burke auctions his original artwork at the Scranton Cultural Center
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From a press release:

The Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple will feature Austin Burke, former President of the Scranton Chamber of Commerce and one of the founding board members of the Cultural Center, as he releases his original artwork of the most iconic buildings, landscapes, and celebrations of Northeastern Pennsylvania.

His featured pieces will be available through auction sale on Saturday, Oct. 4 on the fourth floor’s Shopland Hall. A portion of all proceeds will benefit the SCC’s Building and Restoration Fund to aid in the preservation of its architectural beauty. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for registration, cocktails, and light hors d’oeuvres. The auction begins at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $15.

An art preview event will be featured on Oct. 3 from 6 p.m.-9 p.m. in conjunction with First Friday Scranton.

Burke has worked to reproduce the beauty of our valley and the essence of the community through his artwork for over 20 years. He translates the spirit of the Valley through his paintings, created through captured images from his personal photography, using local inspiration such as La Festa dei Ceri, the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, and Nay Aug Park.

“With everything that Mr. Burke has done for this community and still continues to do, we are honored and privileged to have him offer his original artwork in all its beauty to the public with a portion of his proceeds to benefit the restoration of the Scranton Cultural Center,” stated Executive Director Michael Melcher.

“He recognized the need and decided to take action, showing true leadership.”

Prior to this event, Burke has never sold his original artwork, choosing to either donate pieces or the rights to reproduce them. (In the photo at the top of the page, Burke is giving Governor Tom Corbett one of his paintings.) The most requested have been reproductions of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and the Scranton Electric Building – both for their iconic nature. His original work will be featured at this event. Prints will also be available for individual sale.

Burke has a long withstanding connection with the SCC as one of its founding board members.

“The Scranton Cultural Center is a miracle, expanding and thriving today, and I wish to aid in its restoration to preserve this local treasure,” Burke said of his partnership with the SCC through this event.

At the auction, Burke will be also be announcing the launch of his own future endeavors for his artwork he wishes to make available to residents, visitors, and alumni who share his affinity for the community.

For more information regarding the art auction for the Scranton Cultural Center (420 N. Washington Ave., Scranton), contact Stephanie Santore at stephanies@scrantonculturalcenter.org or 570-346-7369 ext. 102.