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Juniata College Museum of Art Brings William Scharf's Legacy to Life

(Posted September 22, 2025)

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HUNTINGDON, Pa. – The Juniata College Museum of Art (JCMA) will offer an exceptional opportunity to experience nationally-recognized art locally with its new exhibition, “William Scharf: The Journey is the Destination,” celebrating the works of American painter and educator William Scharf (1927–2018). Part I of the exhibition opened on Thursday, September 18; Part II opens on Thursday, October 9, with a celebration from 5–6:30 p.m., featuring remarks from the artist’s family at 5:30 p.m.  

Scharf developed a distinctive visual language marked by layered organic forms, rhythmic movement, and references to universal symbols and personal mythologies. The evocative titles of his works invite multiple interpretations, drawing viewers into a world where painting becomes a window to a higher reality in constant flux. His creative process—valued as highly as the finished work—sought to capture this perpetual motion. 

Over more than six decades, Scharf created a remarkable body of work, ranging from intimate figural sketches to monumental abstract canvases. This first-ever career-spanning exhibition at Juniata College presents not only his art but also video, drawings, teaching notes, and personal notes that illuminate his vision, process, and philosophy, offering visitors a uniquely personal perspective on his life and work. 

The exhibition is co-curated by Jennifer Streb, professor of art history at Juniata; Kevin Moist, associate professor of communications at Penn State Altoona; and Aaron and Anique Scharf, with research support from The Juniata College Sowell Scholars Faculty Grant. 

“William Scharf: The Journey is the Destination” will be on view at JCMA through December 11, 2025. With free admission and extended evening hours, the Museum makes world-class art easily accessible close to home. JCMA is open to the public from 2 - 7p.m., Monday through Thursday, and from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday. 

Contact April Feagley at feaglea@juniata.edu or (814) 641-3131 for more information.