History of the Seven Lively Artists

In 1956, seven graphic artists who worked in the Greater-Harrisburg, Pennsylvania area dubbed themselves “The Seven Lively Artists.” The group had regularly met for lunch during the workweek and on weekends, took to the hills, riverbanks, and city streets to paint “en plein air.”  

While other plein air painting groups existed in the state and nation at the time, these artists were the first to bring the distinctive style of art to the forefront in the Harrisburg area.  

Over time, the group grew in number as members would invite friends to join their regular painting outings around Central Pennsylvania, on their excursions to woodland cabins in remote regions of Pennsylvania and on trips to the picturesque beaches and coves of Cape Cod.  

 “There are no dues, no official meetings and no rules,” says Seven Lively Artist Domnick Brandt of Fairview Township. “We’re just an informal group of guys who like to paint.”  

More than five decades after the group formed, the Seven Lively Artists continue to have a standing Friday lunch date at which they talk about upcoming exhibits and painting trips and share stories of past adventures.  

Today, there are 18 artists who participate in group activities. About a third of the painters are retired, while the others have day jobs that are as diverse as their artistic styles. Several make a living solely through their artwork.  

Many group members are actively involved in the Central Pennsylvania art realm. They teach, exhibit and serve on the boards of the Art Association of Harrisburg and the Mechancisburg Art Center School and Galleries.

The Seven Lively Artists Then & Now