(WEST CHESTER, PA – September 5, 2025): Sunset Hill Fine Arts Gallery and The Chester County Community Foundation proudly celebrates the life and legacy of acclaimed artist Harry Dunn. This October carries special meaning, marking the 35th annual Gallery Walk and 70 years of Harry Dunn.
Harry Dunn has been a part of West Chester’s history since childhood, growing up here under the guidance of mentors like Natalie Leaf and Carolyn Wyeth, later continuing his studies at the Philadelphia Academy of Fine Arts. He worked tirelessly everyday, creating advertisements, signs, and logos for local businesses – back when it was all done with imagination and a paintbrush.
Beyond his professional achievements, Dunn was a beloved mentor and advocate in Chester County, remembered for his generosity, wit and encouragement of emerging artists. He was the driving force behind the creation of the Downtown West Chester Gallery Walks.
“Harry Dunn wasn’t just a remarkable artist but a dear friend to many in West Chester,” says Sandy Riper, owner of Sunset Hill Jewelers & Fine Arts Galley. “Showcasing his work during the Gallery Walk is deeply meaningful, not only for his artistry but the way he helped shape and inspire our community. I am honored that Sunset Hill Fine Arts Gallery and the Community Foundation can collaborate to celebrate his legacy and that his spirit continues to inspire future generations of artists.”
Though Dunn passed away in 1998, his legacy lives on today in the homes of collectors old and new and through the Harry Dunn Memorial Scholarship. To date, over $100,000 in scholarships have been awarded to more than 35 local high school art students.
As we approach the 250th anniversary of the United States, the Chester County Community Foundation (28 W. Market Street) presents a patriotic collection of Dunn’s work. A full collection of his work will also be featured at Sunset Hill Jewelers & Fine Arts Gallery (24 N. High St) from 4-8pm on Friday October 3rd for the Fall 2025 Gallery Walk. A portion of art sales will benefit the Harry Dunn Memorial Art Scholarship, ensuring his legacy continues by supporting future generations of Chester County Artists.
Photo: Harry Dunn Original Artwork featuring Franklin D. Roosevelt
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About the Chester County Community Foundation
Headquartered in West Chester’s Lincoln Building, the Chester County Community Foundation connects people who care with causes that matter so their legacy philanthropy makes a difference now and forever. The Community Foundation holds $136 million in trust and annually awards $6.6 million in grants and scholarships. To learn more about the Community Foundation, visit www.chescocf.org.
About Sunset Hill Jewelers & Fine Arts Gallery
Founded in 1983 and family owned for over 40 years in the heart of downtown West Chester, Sunset Hill Jewelers & Fine Arts Gallery is a premier destination for fine jewelry and art. Owners Joe and Sandy Riper have built a reputation for renowned attentive service, timeless designs and a deep commitment to the local arts community. The gallery showcases rotating exhibits by local and regional artists alongside an extensive collection of fine jewelry, making Sunset Hill a cornerstone of West Chester’s culture and shopping experience. To learn more about Sunset Hill Fine Arts Gallery and Harry Dunn, visit www.harrydunngallery.com.
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