Maybe you’ve seen the artwork of P. Buckley Moss – or maybe not. Either way, a visit to the museum that houses her artistry is worth your time. An entire museum devoted to the work of one artist, you ask? Absolutely. Once you’ve visited this replica of a 19th century home that contains her work, you’ll understand.
Wandering through the different rooms and viewing Pat’s work, you will likely find yourself drawn into the story that each painting tells. These images of kids playing in the snow, riding a carousel horse, pulling a sleigh, or building a snowman are all scenes from a simpler life that every one of us can imagine, even if we’ve not experienced such tranquility recently. Her animal prints are a unique collection of tiny brushstrokes that create amazing detail such as a swan’s plume against a highly detailed outdoor landscape.
Perhaps you wonder about Pat’s background, and where she finds her inspiration for the work she does. Born in 1933 and raised in Queens, NY, Pat developed a fascination with art at an early age. When her mother discovered that Pat was dyslexic, she placed her in a special high school that focused on the things she was good at, and worked diligently to foster her talent as an artist. After marriage, and about the time that Pat was pregnant with her sixth child, she became interested in the Mennonite and Amish people, as can be seen in many of her paintings. In 1967, Pat won first prize for a one-person exhibition, and with that win began a dream to open a gallery for the purpose of exhibiting her work to both locals and visitors to the Shenandoah Valley.
Her contribution to society doesn’t stop with her paintings. Pat felt strongly that it was important for all kids to be exposed to art, especially those children with special needs. And so in 1955, she set up a foundation to keep art in the public school system.
The P. Buckley Moss Museum is located at 50 P. Buckley Moss Drive, Waynesboro, VA 22980. The phone number is 540-949-6473, and the web address is “www.pbuckleymoss.com” (link). Hours of the museum are Monday through Saturday, from 10:00 to 5:00, and Sundays from 12:30 to 5:00. And the best part? It’s free!
A special bonus at the museum which will appeal to kids from ages 5 to 90 is the extremely large, handmade dollhouse that is displayed in the entryway. The detail will excite parent and child alike. Be sure to count the number of mice (miniature, of course) that you can find!
If you haven’t been to the P. Buckley Moss Museum in Waynesboro, what are you waiting for? You owe it to yourself to experience the art and the passions of this world-renowned artist.
Stan Horst, along with his wife Debbie and two teenage children, have been hosting visitors in their mountain cabins since 1995. Their detailed knowledge of activities and attractions in the area make them a favorite of visitors from all over the world, who are seeking first-class Virginia mountain cabin rentals and first-hand knowledge of things to see and do.
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