Hope Horn Gallery Presents Anthracite Art

By Marcus Smith '27, Student Correspondent

The unsung story of coal mining's effect on Scranton's culture is on display now in the Hope Horn Gallery.

"The Anthracite Coal Industry of Northeastern Pennsylvania: Selected Paintings, Sculptures and Works on Paper from Public and Private Collections, 1829-1959" is an exhibition showcasing the artwork that comes from the extensive history of coal mining in Northeastern Pennsylvania.

Many pieces in the exhibition are taken from Richard Stanislaus's G'98 private collection.

Born and raised in the Scranton area, Stanislaus has a deep connection to the coal industry.

Initially, Darlene Miller-Lanning, Ph.D, the curator of the Hope Horn gallery, wanted to do a single exhibition on Stanislaus's private collection of artwork about coal mining and its culture, but it quickly grew much bigger.

"We wanted to do a show that we thought would represent works in his collection, but we ended up with two shows, there's so much material," Dr. Miller-Lanning said.

Stanislaus gave a presentation at the Oct. 24 opening of the collection to discuss the various pieces included in the exhibition, which was followed by a reception commemorating the opening.

The exhibition is an effort to bring awareness to the impact that mining had on the local community for those who might be unfamiliar with it.

"Everybody has a story. Everybody knew somebody or was related to somebody that was involved in coal mining," Dr. Miller-Lanning said.

Unfortunately, the heritage of the coal region has faded from public memory over time.

"There was this whole culture that grew up around it, and some of that is still present in the community, yet as generations move on, every year, a little less is remembered," Dr. Miller-Lanning said.

"The Anthracite Coal Industry of Northeastern Pennsylvania: Selected Paintings, Sculptures and Works on Paper from Public and Private Collections, 1829-1959" will be presented at the Hope Horn Gallery until Dec. 12.