The Gallery
Fine Art
Manayunk Design Group strives to inspire those living in Philadelphia and the surrounding areas to build upon their past. Utilizing the resources we already hold, we can enhance the character of our neighborhoods and give homage to the tradition of our predecessors. MDG’s unique blend of salvage and artwork will satisfy any homeowners’ needs.
The Manayunk Design Group carries original artwork from several local artists working in a variety of media. We hope to continually discover and sponsor the work of talented artists in the Philadelphia area. More Information »
Joe Barker
Renowned watercolorist and personality, Joe Barker has painted the Philadelphia landscape for twenty years. Joe’s work adorns not only the major law firms and businesses in town, but also every room in the Rittenhouse Hotel on Rittenhouse Square.
Best known for his uncanny perspective, Joe’s recreation of Philadelphia landmarks such as the Museum of Art, Logan Circle, Love Park, Rittenhouse Square, Boathouse Row and the Italian market are most requested, followed by recent favorites such as his rendition of local restaurants , the streets and views of Main Street in Manayaunk and the infamous Bike Race.
Michele Byrne
There is something magical and mystical about standing with your feet firmly planted on the earth, absorbing all the sounds, smells and conversations as well as the visual information and letting it all flow out onto the canvas. I become a part of the scene and the paintings seemt o flow out of me. In the beginning it seems to resemble work, getting the composition and the drawing of the scene down correctly. After that point it is magic. Some paintings seemt o paint themselves and I look in awe when they are finished and wonder how it came to be. I feel in these moments that I am painting directly from my source, my inner spirit, the spirit that God meant me to be. I feel a childlike exuberance when I am painting and even more so when I am finished. These are some of the most happy moments of my life!
Michele Byrne paints in oils and watercolors. Two books of her paintings are published and she is working on a third book. The titles of the published books are: The Art of Conversation with an introduction by Constance Battle MD.; The Art of Conversation: Manhattan with an introduction by Meredith Lewis (Editor of American Artist Watercolor Magazine). Michele has also had her works included in a sales at Freeman’s Auction House in Philadelphia and she is a nominated member of the Philadelphia Sketch Club.