Featured Arts Council Member: Jane Watson
Top of WV Arts Council members at the Grand Reopening of the Summit Art Gallery. Front row (L-R): Jeanne Amidon, Jane Watson, Janice McSherry, Diane Kessler Back Row (L-R): Joyce Beatty, Paul Spencer, Linda Heilman, Bob Watson, Mike Swartzmiller, Nancy Wright, Dale Biesecker, Molly Mossor, Garen DiBartolomeo
Jane Watson is a long-time member of the Top of WV Arts Council (TWVAC) and is passionate about promoting arts and culture in the community. Raised near Frankfort Springs, Pennsylvania, Jane is known for always wearing many hats – both literally and symbolically. Jane is the wife of artist Bob Watson, is a retired federal employee, and a member of many local organizations including Weirton Women’s Club, First United Methodist Church, Three Score Dinner Club, and Steubenville Art Association.
“I feel blessed that TWVAC was able to unify during the pandemic, preparing for the Grand Re-opening in August 2021,” commented Jane. “I see the Arts Council as having stayed focused on its mission these many years, with the members working well together to continue meeting their goals.” TWVAC strives to be a sponsor and developer of cultural and educational activities that promotes visual, literary, and performing arts in the community.
The Summit Art Gallery is managed by TWVAC, of which Jane has been a helper for nearly a decade. In that time, Jane has seen the gallery grow from its small, original location to its new building just down Main Street. New exhibitions open at the gallery about every two months, including shows to promote arts education in the local middle and high schools. Jane hopes TWVAC can continue to establish programs that encourage community members to get involved in the arts and attend events at Summit Art Gallery.
“As I look at various pieces of artwork, my heart is touched that the artist painted such a powerful expression that was a part of them”.
You can explore the Summit Art Gallery and shop for TWVAC members’ artwork at the Top of West Virginia CVB, located at 3539 Main Street, Weirton, WV.
