Gettysburg’s Artists-in-Residence program gives artists the chance of a lifetime.
Mark Mahosky knew it was an opportunity that he had to pursue. For more than 30 years, he had traveled to Gettysburg to create battlefield art. He knew the historic landmark well; traversed its famous knolls and valleys. He obsessed over its history.
But never like he did during the month of August. He was one of three artists to spend a month living at Gettysburg National Military Park’s Klingel House through the Artists-in-Residence Program. The National Parks Arts Foundation created the residency program at parks throughout the U.S, including at the battlefield with support from Gettysburg Foundation.
Mark Mahosky painting in the Peach Orchard.
While at the park, Mahosky and other artists are able to explore and create freely without expectations. Mahosky, a multimedia artist, did just that. He showcased his residency creations during a 45-minute presentation at the Klingel House in late August. The drawings illustrated the sanctity of the landscape at Gettysburg and the history of the park.
He and other artists spoke with park staff, explored the town, and cherished the opportunity to view the battlefield in ways that few have had the luxury to experience. And they found unique vantages of the park that inspired stunning new art.
During Ted Walsh’s tenure at the battlefield in September, he witnessed an event few see—a controlled burn of some of the grasses by the local fire department.
They soon could become art—and a part of the preservation of the park’s history, says National Parks Arts Foundation Founder Tanya Ortega.
Like other artists who applied for the residency, Walsh was selected by specialized curators, a group of panelists, and even the park staff. The opportunity fit well with Walsh’s style and ideas.
That’s the goal for both Walsh and the residency project.