Local artist to display pyrography work May 13-27 at Penn State Wilkes-Barre

Elisabeth Samanas at Meet The Artist Reception

Elisabeth Samanas next to one of her pieces at a 'Meet The Artist' reception held May 13.

Credit: Elisabeth Samanas

LEHMAN, Pa. — Local artist Elisabeth Samanas will display her pyrography work May 13-27 in a solo show titled “Burnt Impressions" in the Friedman Art Gallery at Penn State Wilkes-Barre.

Elisabeth Samanas will discuss her work during a “Meet the Artist” reception from 5 to 8 p.m. on Friday, May 13. The exhibition is free and open to the public.

Born and raised in Shavertown, Samanas graduated with a bachelor of arts degree from Bloomsburg University in 2008. Her creative spirit started to soar in 2013 by experimenting with the natural medium of wood.

“God blessed me with talent and passion for creating realistic images on wood,” Samanas said. “My pyrography art is a result of the natural connection between spirit and talent.”

The term pyrography means “drawing with fire” from the Greek words "pur" (fire) and "graphikos" (drawing). Working mainly on hard maple and bass wood, Samanas uses a temperature-controlled tool with metal tips to burn the wood, creating the desired image. With each piece, Samanas strives to improve her skill and ability to create a work of art that produces a realistic experience for the viewer.

"Burnt Impressions" will be on display:

  • 5 to 8 p.m., May 13 
  • 12:30 to 4:30 p.m., May 14
  • Noon to 4 p.m., May 15
  • 9 a.m. to noon, May 18 
  • 1 to 4 p.m., May 19
  • 3:30 to 7:30 p.m., May 20
  • 12:30 to 4:30 p.m., May 21 
  • Noon to 4 p.m., May 22 
  • 9 a.m. to noon, May 25 
  • 1 to 4 p.m., May 26 
  • 3:30 to 7:30 p.m., May 27