The Westmoreland Museum of American Art Serves as Host Location for Westmoreland County’s America250PA Commerative Bell
GREENSBURG, Pennsylvania (November 15, 2024) — The Westmoreland Museum of American Art, in partnership with Discover Westmoreland, Westmoreland Heritage, and Go Laurel Highlands, is proud to announce that the Museum will serve as the host site for Westmoreland County’s commemorative bell as part of the Bells Across Pennsylvania initiative in celebration of United States’ 250th Anniversary. This exciting project, led by America250PA, will place unique, artist-designed bells in all 67 counties of Pennsylvania. The Westmoreland County bell will be displayed at the Museum beginning in the second half of 2025 and will remain on view through 2026.
The Museum collaborated with America250PA, Discover Westmoreland, Westmoreland Heritage, and GO Laurel Highlands in selecting an artist to create a design for the bell. Through a countywide call for artists, local artist Mandy Sirochuck was chosen. Sirochuck, a renowned glass artist with over 40 years of experience, will use a glass mosaic design that depicts iconic landmarks, important people, and local wildlife. The bell will also reference the county’s waterways, its lush natural resources, and the hardworking spirit of the people who call this region home.
“I am honored to contribute to this incredible project,” said Sirochuck. “The bell will not only pay tribute to Westmoreland County’s past, but also celebrate its present and future. It’s a symbol of our strong community pride.”
The bell is planned to be unveiled in the summer of 2025 at the Museum, where it will remain on view through 2026 as part of Westmoreland County’s contribution to the Bells Across Pennsylvania project.
“I am delighted that the Museum will be the home for our county’s commemorative bell,” said Silvia Filippini-Fantoni, The Richard M. Scaife Director/CEO. “This project is a unique opportunity to showcase the talent of a local artist while also celebrating our region. It is wonderful to be part of this statewide effort, and the Museum staff is excited for our community to experience this one-of-a-kind work of art.”
“Westmoreland County has a rich history of resolve, resilience, and innovation, and the Bell will showcase what makes our region special,” remarked Dawn Lamuth, Director of Culture and Community Connection at GO Laurel Highlands. “We are thrilled to participate in a project that will unite all the counties in the Commonwealth with America250PA and attract visitors from near and far. We are looking forward to having people interact with the bell in multifaceted ways to learn more about Westmoreland County.”
Public Input on the Bell’s Design
The public is invited to participate in this initiative by submitting suggestions of Westmoreland County landmarks, people, and wildlife to be included on the bell. Residents are encouraged to share their thoughts through the Westmoreland Bell Ideas form, available online at the County’s website DiscoverWestmoreland.com.
About the Artist
Mandy Sirochuck is a distinguished stained glass and mosaic artist with a passion for integrating traditional and contemporary techniques. Her work has been featured in numerous public and private commissions, and she has taught stained glass and fused glass techniques for over two decades. Mandy and her husband, Paul, are the co-owners of Main Exhibit Gallery & Art Center in Ligonier, where they exhibit work by regional and national artists.
About America250PA
America250PA is the Commonwealth’s official program for Pennsylvania’s role in the national observance of the 250th anniversary of the United States. The Bells Across Pennsylvania project is one of many exciting initiatives that will take place in the years leading up to 2026, and it aims to unite communities across the state with art, history, and civic pride. For more information on the Bells Across Pennsylvania project and to get involved, visit America250PA.
About The Westmoreland Museum of American Art
Western Pennsylvania’s only museum dedicated to American art, The Westmoreland Museum of American Art in Greensburg, Pennsylvania, offers meaningful and engaging cultural experiences that build community and inspire creativity, new ideas, and action through the power of art. The Westmoreland’s extraordinary permanent collection with its strong focus on the art and artists of Southwestern Pennsylvania is complemented by an impressive temporary exhibition schedule featuring both nationally traveling exhibitions and those organized by the Museum. Additionally, The Westmoreland presents a full slate of community-oriented events. General admission to the Museum is free. The Museum’s operating hours are Wednesday-Sunday from 10am-5pm. More information is available at thewestmoreland.org.
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