NEPA Scene Staff

Life’s work of photographer Alex Seeley on display in Scranton at ArtWorks Aug. 1-31

Life’s work of photographer Alex Seeley on display in Scranton at ArtWorks Aug. 1-31
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From a press release:

The newly established Alex Seeley Memorial Fund has announced an exhibition of Alex Seeley’s work at ArtWorks Gallery & Studio in downtown Scranton from Monday, Aug. 1 through Sunday, Aug. 31.

“Perseverance: The Life’s Work of Alex Seeley” will have an opening reception to the public during the First Friday Scranton art walk on Aug. 5 from 6 p.m.-9 p.m.

This retrospective will display a variety of work that Seeley created throughout his life as a well-respected artist and photographer. The Lake Ariel native made art in all stages of his life and was best known in the community for his concert photography. He was a great lover of music, horror, and all things Halloween. His loved ones remember him as vivacious and insightful with a deep love for life and a witty remark always at hand.

He was a 2007 graduate of Western Wayne High School and went on to receive a bachelor’s degree in visual arts with a concentration in photography from Keystone College in Factoryville. He was employed as a photographer by Saks Fifth Avenue at their studio in Pottsville and contributed award-winning work to many newspapers, magazines, and websites in the area.

Seeley succumbed to his long battle with cancer on Feb. 11, 2021 at the age of 32.

“I love my brother and I want to support and preserve his legacy,” said Melissa Seeley.

“I’ve always been so proud of how he was easily able to express himself through his art. He was able to turn his observations into something magical. I miss him every day.”

The Alex Seeley Memorial Fund was founded in 2022 to honor his legacy and will be administered by the Scranton Area Community Foundation. It is a tax-exempt fund that supports programs for the residents of Lackawanna County and Northeastern Pennsylvania, particularly the arts, photography, and initiatives that serve children facing illness such as Make-A-Wish.

To support this fund, tax-deductible donations can be made online or by calling 570-347-6203.

The mission of ArtWorks Gallery & Studio (236 Penn Ave., Scranton) is to celebrate the artist in everyone through fine art instruction and gallery exhibitions while immersing people with intellectual disabilities and autism into a larger arts community that provides them diverse opportunities for fulfilling lives.

ArtWorks is supported by Beacon Specialized Living – Keystone Community Resources in Clarks Summit, which provides high-quality, gentle, compassionate, evidence-based care to help people reach their goals and live rich lives.

For nearly 60 years, Keystone Community Resources has been Pennsylvania’s leading provider of community-based services for individuals with autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities. It serves over 1,400 adults across seven counties and offers various services, including full and part-time support. It operates over 80 group homes and day option programs in addition to supported employment, life sharing, and supported living opportunities in NEPA.