LOCK HAVEN, Pa. - April 1, 2011 was a special night at Lock Haven University, marking the official launch of the John Sloan Arts Society.

John French Sloan, the leading artist of what came to known as the “Ashcan School” is most famous for his depictions of neighborhood life in New York City in the early twentieth century. Today, his name, memory and many of his works are preserved in Lock Haven University, located in the town of his birth, Lock Haven, Pennsylvania.

Upon his death in 1951, over twenty of Sloan’s works were donated to the Lock Haven University Foundation by his widow, Helen Farr Sloan, and Dr. Hollon Farr. These include two oil paintings, a commercial lithograph, and etchings spanning the years 1905 to 1945.

The university’s arts building bears his name, as does the building’s fine arts gallery, where Sloan’s oil Self Portrait with Pipe and Clock is on permanent display.

To further honor the artist, Lock Haven University has established a new recognition society in his name. The John Sloan Arts Society, which had its official beginning on April 1, recognizes donors at all levels who have made a gift in support of the arts at Lock Haven University.

The John Sloan Arts Society Inaugural Spring Social on Friday, April 1 in the president’s residence brought together university administrators; donors and supporters of the arts at Lock Haven University; faculty in art, music, theater and dance; and distinguished community members. The reception included a private showing of several works from the Lock Haven University Foundation’s permanent collection, including etchings by Sloan. Sloan’s self-portrait was on display in the foyer, on loan from the university’s Sloan Gallery.

Following the reception Society members were the president’s guests for the opening night of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” presented in the Sloan Auditorium by the University Players. As an All-Steinway School, Lock Haven is a leader in the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education for its performing arts and music education programs.

Guests were also able to meet with the cast and crew of “Joseph” after the performance and enjoy a juried exhibition of student art in the John Sloan Fine Arts Gallery.

The John Sloan Fine Arts Society will build on the success of its inaugural event to help build the Lock Haven University arts programs and to spread awareness of the rich cultural opportunities offered to students and the public.