In 2012 King’s Courtyard Artists’ Collective was the second gallery to establish itself in the Royal Square District, Downtown York’s eclectic arts district named after its imperial location, flanked by Princess, Duke, King, and Queen Streets, and will be celebrating its 10 year anniversary on First Friday July.
About King’s Courtyard Artists’ Collective
The King’s Courtyard began as an outdoor gallery located in a concrete courtyard between 121 and 123 E. King St. in York, PA. Its creation in 2012 was the result of conversations with supportive friends, donations of materials, time and energy and a small group of artists. The original philosophy was simple: create a family-friendly environment where artists could show their work without having to go through the traditional channels of approaching established galleries. We were welcoming to all and the original group of artists was eclectic. Our first shows ran on the first Fridays of April, May, and June of 2012. From there, The King’s Courtyard moved indoors to our current location of 124 E. King St. Read more about the gallery here.
The gallery started with seven members and has since grown to over 20 artists. The 10 year anniversary of King’s Courtyard Artists’ Collective is marked by its continuous evolution and growth with three new artists: Sydni Ann Baker, Chad Bert, and Barbara Buchanan.
“It’s about people working together,” says founding member, Heather Bowser. “Finally after 10 years, all the storefronts are full. We have been waiting for the rest of the neighborhood to catch up with the dream. Everything is in the right place. The whole neighborhood is working together to make the Royal Square District a destination.”
Everyone is invited to celebrate King’s Courtyard 10 Year Anniversary Celebration on July 1, with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony hosted by Downtown Inc kicking off the event at 3pm. Following the Ribbon Cutting, King’s Courtyard Artists’ Collective has put together an evening of activities, like an interactive ‘Make Your Mark’ mural painting, a drumming circle led by artist member Jose Lopez, and a visit from the York Revolution’s Mascot, DownTown!
