Art has a unique way of connecting us, inspiring creativity, and enriching our lives. It’s a powerful form of expression, communication, and connection.
In Cranberry Township, one non-profit organization aims to ensure that the arts remain a vibrant part of our community.
Filling a Void
Noele Richards was an art teacher at Haine Middle School and saw a need for an arts organization in Cranberry Township. In 2013, she founded the Cranberry Artists Network (CAN) to promote awareness about the value of the arts. The organization became a nonprofit in 2014 and connects artists and their skills with the community through exhibitions. Members have diverse talents, including watercolor, oils, pastels, photography, digital art, mixed media, jewelry, glass, pottery and ceramics, sculpture, and more.
“Our group has worked hard to support the arts in our community. We believe that our region is rich with beauty and history and is deserving of a first-class representation of the arts. That is who we are, and that is what we do.”
Since its inception, CAN has hosted numerous events and exhibitions, including Martinis with Monet, an annual art exhibition at the Cranberry Township Municipal Center that celebrates art created by dozens of CAN members. The event serves as the official kickoff for the Cranberry Township Community Chests (CTCC) Community Days and also serves as the opening reception for CAN’s summer art exhibit.
Martinis with Monet 2024
Traffic control utility boxes become art
Beyond the Municipal Center, Cranberry Township’s traffic control cabinets, the stainless steel boxes next to traffic light poles at most signalized intersections, are now works of art, thanks to CAN. The idea came to fruition when the Township and CAN solicited ideas from artists for images that could be turned into vinyl sheets and then wrapped around utility boxes. After receiving 91 submissions, five artists works were selected as the first pieces of art to be featured across the Township. KEYTEX and Armstrong sponsored the art boxes.
Art Boxes Installation 2024
Supporting Artists
But CAN extends beyond the Township borders. CAN members' artwork has been displayed at the Bottlebrush Gallery in Harmony, PA, the Mars Public Library, the Carnegie Museum of Art, and more. As a network, CAN supports its members by offering professional development opportunities, such as artist talks, skill-building workshops, and networking events. These initiatives help artists grow their craft and build a sustainable future in the arts.
The Arts are for Everyone
The Cranberry Artists Network is more than a nonprofit organization—it’s a celebration of the creativity and culture that make Cranberry Township a special place to live. By supporting CAN, we can ensure that the arts remain a thriving part of our community for generations.
For more information about upcoming events, membership, or ways to get involved, click here.
Check out this story about CAN’s origin by TribLive.