By Susanna Huang ’27

The Nancy Horton Heefner Memorial Art Show is an inclusive, nonjuried exhibition that annually gathers work from local artists in the greater Mercersburg area. Open to anyone in the community, it reflects a true celebration of artistic expression within the region. The show runs from October 8 to November 16 in the Burgin Center for the Arts’ Cofrin Gallery, with an artist reception held on Sunday, November 16, from 1:30 to 3 p.m., featuring light refreshments and a chance to meet the artists. Visitors are welcome from the Mercersburg community and beyond.

 The event is held in memory of Nancy Horton Heefner, who taught art history, drawing, and ceramics at Mercersburg Academy for 22 years, serving as head of the arts department for seven years before retiring in 1994. She was deeply involved in the local community, including the Mercersburg Historical Society, where she was vice president, and the Mercersburg Women’s Club.

The show was conceived of by community members Betty Jane Lee and Joanne McCulloh, among others, as a way to honor Heefner's legacy. In partnership with the Mercersburg Historical Society and Mercersburg Academy, the show was promoted to local artists who make the exhibition possible. “It's a nonjuried show, which means that no one is turned away. Composed of local artists, anybody in the area who hears about the show is invited to participate, and I love the range of subject, style and medium–like ‘potpourri’ as has been referenced in past years,” explained Sydney Caretti P ’24 ’26, director of galleries and faculty at Mercersburg Academy. The art on display spans a variety of mediums, including paintings, mixed media, wooden sculpture, and ceramic sculpture, reflecting the rich creative diversity of the community.

Caretti also emphasized the importance of the relationship between the town of Mercersburg and Mercersburg Academy, noting the mutual dependence and connection both share. This sense of community extends to the personal connections visitors form with the art and artists. Moreover, Caretti indicates the painting of The Fendrick Library by Audrey Harniman: “This is a special place and hub of the community. It’s instantly recognizable and rendered with care, affection, and expression. I have countless memories and make more all the time.” Caretti reflected on how particular artworks can create empathy and understanding: recognizing places and artists known personally, gaining perspective from another’s viewpoint, or evoking moments from life that resonate emotionally and foster a sense of the shared human experience.

Entry for the show’s duration is coordinated through the Office of Campus Safety, with instructions displayed at the front door or by appointment with Caretti. The Burgin Center operates from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday and 1 to 6 p.m. on weekends. Running concurrently in the corner gallery is an exhibit of Advanced Studies: Studio Art works by Mercersburg Academy Class of 2025 students, adding another layer of artistic talent to the venue.

This annual memorial art show celebrates not only artistic creativity but also community bonds and the lasting impact of Nancy Horton Heefner’s legacy on the Mercersburg area.