The 4th in Philly

The annual Sunoco Welcome America! festival, is happening this Saturday July 4th!! Expect some brilliant fireworks displays, delicious dishes, cultural events and the largest free concert in America!!

Starting July 2-5 the City of Brotherly love hosts millions of residents and visitors for a celebration of the nation’s birthday. The morning of July 4 begins with traditional ceremonies on historic Independence Mall, followed by a parade through Historic Philadelphia (new route!) with bands, flags and pageantry reminiscent of an old-fashioned Main Street, USA parade. The YoCo's will be there!! Then in the afternoon, the “Party on the Parkway” will feature activities, games, food and entertainment for the whole family, set in front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art on Ben Franklin Parkway. The original headliner announced was Sheryl Crow...but now we've been told that The Legendary Roots Crew will be there too!!!! You KNOW that will be amazing!!

The music and fun will be followed by an amazing fireworks grand finale set against the dramatic Art Museum.

Join the YoCo's in celebrating what every Philadelphian already knows – that the best place to celebrate America’s birthday is here, in Philly aka America’s birthplace.

Melissa Mytty: Pickles & Pop

Melissa Mytty, is a Resident Artist at The Clay Studio in Old City, Philadelphia, PA. Melissa makes super detailed cups and saucers in her studio space, and has her solo show now at the Gallery.

The Resident Artist Program offers individuals the opportunity to further develop their work, to establish professional contacts and standards, and to work within a community of like-minded individuals in an urban environment. Once chosen as a resident artist, one is entitled to retain their residency for up to five years.

A residency at The Clay Studio includes:

• studio space (approximately 185-195 sq. ft.)
• use of four electric and two gas kilns
• collective buying of materials
• a glaze mixing area
• teaching opportunities and the right to exhibit in our galleries

The monthly rent of $250.00 is waived through August of 2011. There is a $250.00 refundable security deposit and a yearly Clay Studio membership fee of $50.00. Firing costs are based on individual usage. Residents share common housekeeping work and contribute time to The Clay Studio as well.



Melissa's Artist Statement:

"Form Function Fantasy and Fashion. The cup as an object has been the focus of my investigation as a maker. My work draws from the rich history of ceramics while injections of contemporary culture such as haute couture, tattoos, automotive design, ground effects, and licking tongues are critical and keep my work pushing the boundaries of the material and the format of the cup. I am intrigued by the timeless design of teacups and the clean aesthetic of mass-produced dinnerware; It is however critical that my work come from between my fingers and under my nails. I live for the sense of touch and am forever altering my cup designs as they come to life in the palms of my hands."

Come out to The Clay Studio on N.2nd Street between Arch and Race Streets and check out Melissa's hot show!!
CHECK OUT images of all the work in the show!!!