Resident Artists

Ann Elizabeth Schlegel

Ann Elizabeth Schlegel has always loved art. In fact, one of her earliest and favorite memories in life is of finger-painting with her mother.

A painter in oil and acrylic, Ann studied at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia from 1997-2000. In addition, she traveled to Paris to further her knowledge of 19th century art, studying at the Ecole Nationale Supérieure Des Beaux-Arts. She has been featured in solo and group exhibits around the world, including shows at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts and and two solo exhibitions in Schwäbisch Gmünd, Germany. Locally, she is perhaps best known for her Adult Beverage Collection, which was on display at Pistachio Bar and Grille in Allentown. She was also invited to exhibit her instrument series in a solo exhibit during the jazz festival in Antibes Juan-les-Pins, France, during summer 2008.

In August 2006, Ann began a project titled “Painting Each Day,” which involves her creating a different 6-inch by 6-inch work of art each day for a year. It was so well received that Ann continues it to this day, painting five or six new works each week. Her “Pink Series” project, inspired by her sister’s battle with cancer, is a collection of richly-hued paintings with pink and red themes that were created to raise awareness for and funds for The Cure.

Over the years, Ann has donated her art to numerous causes, including St. Luke’s Hospital, Sacred Heart Hospital, The 19th Street Theatre, Allentown Symphony Hall, The United Friends School, Community Services for Children, The Baum School of Art, KidsPeace, AIDSnet, The Tsunami Relief effort, Dream Come True, Make a Wish Foundation and charities that benefited victims of Hurricane Katrina.

In recent years, she has also found success away from canvas. Using the graphic design skills that she learned while attending the University of the Arts, she has created imaginative posters for events such as Musikfest, the CigarsInternational “Cigarfest,” Mayfair Festival of the Arts, the Allentown Art Musuem and the Hudson Valley Wine and Food Festival. A recipient of the prestigious Arts Ovation Award in 2002, she resides in Allentown.

Artist Statement

“As an artist, the Banana Factory is just about the best place you can be. You are surrounded by other artists who are all so diverse in their experience. They bring an eclectic atmosphere to the building and enrich the day with energy and fun.”

-Ann Elizabeth Schlegel