What we're passionate about
"A robust and diverse outpouring of artistic and cultural experiences. "
Igniting Artistic Passion and Community Engagement
At the Rossetti Foundation for the Arts and Culture (RFAC), our mission transcends convention. We breathe life into the heart of our community through the transformative power of art, music, education, healing, and research. With unwavering enthusiasm, we sponsor events that uplift underserved groups, weave wellness programs into the fabric of those in need, all while preserving the cultural tapestry of our estate.
A Kaleidoscope of Artistic Expression
Our programs stand as a testament to inclusivity and diversity, uniting under the encompassing umbrella of the five pillars of art. These pillars encompass Literature, Visual Arts, Graphic Arts, Performing Arts, Music, and Architecture. Embracing innovation, we extend our canvas to the Culinary Arts, weaving a rich tapestry that celebrates creativity in its multifaceted glory. At RFAC, we beckon art enthusiasts and charitable organizations to partake in a journey where every stroke of imagination contributes to the symphony of life.
A Canvas of Community-Driven Artistry
Bound by a shared passion for creativity, we ardently champion the arts through community events and art programs that resonate with our community’s essence. Guided by skilled directors, each nurturing a unique art pillar, we cultivate an immersive and interactive artistic haven. Our Immersive Art Project (IAP), an extension of the Art Education Program (AEP), invites underrepresented artists to pour their souls into original works that span myriad forms.
Building on 5 pillars of Art and more
The Rossetti Foundation for the Arts and Culture (RFAC) is dedicated to fostering a vibrant and diverse community by harnessing the power of art, music, education, healing, and research. Our vision is to uplift underserved groups, nurture wellness initiatives, and preserve the estate’s cultural and historical essence.
We fervently champion the arts through community events and art programs that thrive on community involvement. Our directors oversee distinct artistic pillars, ensuring an immersive and interactive artistic experience. The Immersive Art Project (IAP) is an extension of our Art Education Program (AEP), providing a platform for underrepresented artists to showcase their original works in all their forms.
RFAC proudly introduces its children’s summer program, inviting youngsters aged 6 to 12 to engage with actors in a captivating display of immersive storytelling. The program director infuses beloved childhood fairytales with a creative twist. The children’s program fosters imagination through music, visual arts, movement, dance, and drama. A delightful lunch is served, and we aim to identify at-risk children for participation in the Life Skills program.
Our programs and projects are crafted with inclusivity and diversity in mind, firmly rooted in the five pillars of art. These encompass Literature, the Visual Arts, Graphic Arts, Performing Arts, Music, and Architecture. Additionally, we extend our embrace to the Culinary Arts. At RFAC, we are committed to fostering a creative haven that transcends boundaries, uniting diverse art forms under one inspiring roof.
At the Rossetti Foundation for the Arts and Culture (RFAC), our mission transcends convention. We breathe life into the heart of our community through the transformative power of art, music, education, healing, and research. With unwavering enthusiasm, we sponsor events that uplift underserved groups, weave wellness programs into the fabric of those in need, all while preserving the cultural tapestry of our estate.
Bound by a shared passion for creativity, we ardently champion the arts through community events and art programs that resonate with our community’s essence. Guided by skilled directors, each nurturing a unique art pillar, we cultivate an immersive and interactive artistic haven. Our Immersive Art Project (IAP), an extension of the Art Education Program (AEP), invites underrepresented artists to pour their souls into original works that span myriad forms.
a small organization with big ideas
Greetings from our directors
Kenneth Hussey is the Executive Director of the Rossetti Foundation for the Arts and Culture, where he plays a pivotal role in fostering artistic expression and cultural enrichment. With a profound passion for the arts and a keen eye for innovative cultural initiatives, Kenneth has been instrumental in shaping the foundation’s strategic direction and expanding its impact within the community. Under his leadership, the foundation has flourished, supporting a diverse range of programs that promote artistic excellence and cultural understanding. Kenneth’s commitment to the arts extends beyond administrative duties; he actively engages with artists, patrons, and community leaders to ensure the arts remain accessible and relevant for all. His visionary approach continues to enhance the cultural landscape, making a lasting impact on the arts and culture sector.
Mike Taluto is a distinguished figure in Scranton, renowned for his deep-rooted connection to the city and his unwavering dedication to the community. With an extensive history of involvement in local development, Mike has been a key advocate for the cultural and economic growth of Scranton. His passion for the arts is evident in his active participation in various cultural initiatives, where he has played significant roles in promoting arts education and supporting local artists.
Mike’s commitment to Scranton goes beyond the arts. He is actively involved in community service, working closely with numerous non-profits and civic organizations to address key issues and enhance the quality of life for all residents. His efforts have not only enriched the community but have also fostered a spirit of unity and pride among its members.
Through his work, Mike has become a beloved and respected leader in Scranton, admired for his dedication and love for the city. His contributions continue to leave a lasting impact, making him a true pillar of the Scranton community.
Cathy Rist Strauch is our esteemed Director of Marketing and Logistics. Bringing over five decades of dedication to the theater, Cathy’s illustrious career began in musical theater and vocal performances with the notable showcase group, Standing Room Only, where she not only performed but also led as president and costume designer. For the past thirty-plus years, Cathy has been a dynamic presence at Actors Circle, engaging in every facet of theater production. Her contributions span directing, acting, and technical roles in sound, set, and costume design, earning her multiple NEPTA nominations. Cathy has produced over 100 shows for Actors Circle, where she has also held roles as past president, ongoing secretary, publicist, and director of fundraising. Her multifaceted expertise and commitment continue to be invaluable assets to our team.
Lisa Benedict is a long-term resident of Scranton and a dedicated member of the local arts community. Her commitment to fostering the arts in Scranton is demonstrated through her tireless efforts to support and expand arts education in the area. Lisa has been instrumental in developing educational programs that connect artists with local schools, and she regularly organizes workshops and events designed to make art accessible to people of all ages.
Her work often bridges gaps between different community groups, bringing together a diverse range of participants and collaborators to celebrate and create art. Lisa’s initiatives not only nurture budding artists but also enrich the cultural fabric of Scranton, making it a vibrant hub for creative expression.
Recognized for her dedication and passion, Lisa has become a key figure in Scranton’s art scene, known for her ability to inspire and mobilize the community. Her ongoing commitment to the arts and education continues to make a profound impact, ensuring that the arts remain a vital part of the community’s identity.
Joseph Olivieri, a retired physician and long-term resident of Scranton, has dedicated his post-medical career to the flourishing arts and music scene of his city. With a deep appreciation for the cultural importance of the arts, he has seamlessly transitioned from medicine to arts advocacy, now serving as a director for a prominent local arts organization.
Dr. Olivieri’s commitment to the arts extends beyond administrative roles; he is a staunch supporter of artists and musicians, actively promoting opportunities for their growth and exposure. His efforts include securing funding for arts programs, organizing community events that showcase local talent, and advocating for the arts in public forums.
His background as a physician brings a unique, compassionate perspective to his work in the arts, emphasizing the healing and transformative power of music and art in community settings. Joseph’s leadership and passion not only strengthen the artistic community in Scranton but also enrich the lives of its residents, making the arts a pivotal element of the city’s identity and vibrancy.
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Sunday Olaniyi, born in Nigeria in 1988, is a contemporary visual artist, designer, and art instructor who has made significant strides in the Scranton arts community. As the assistant art director and a notable artist himself, Sunday brings a vibrant and innovative approach to his work. Known for his exceptional skill in using glass beads to craft portraiture and abstract storytelling, his art embodies a uniquely African perspective, providing rich, cultural insights through his creations.
Olaniyi’s work explores the intricate relationship between space, color, and texture, achieving a dynamic blend of realism and semi-abstract forms that include both human and animal subjects. His commitment to art and education is reflected in his role as an art instructor, where he mentors aspiring artists, fostering their growth and encouraging them to explore diverse mediums and techniques.
A multi-award-winning artist, Sunday Olaniyi has showcased his work in numerous group and solo exhibitions, gaining recognition both locally and internationally. His contributions to the Scranton art scene have not only enriched the local cultural landscape but have also served as a bridge connecting different artistic traditions and communities.
Anne Marie Dupre is a distinguished opera singer whose illustrious career is marked by both her performances and her commitment to education. As a consummate artist, Ms. Dupre has not only graced stages with her commanding voice but has also dedicated much of her career to teaching, operating a private voice studio where she passes her craft on to young singers. Her work in nurturing the careers of emerging talents is a profound calling that she describes as her true vocation, famously noting, “A teacher is not just what I do, a teacher is what I am.”
In addition to her role as a mentor and educator, Anne Marie Dupre serves as the Artistic Director for the Rossetti Foundation for the Arts and Culture. In this capacity, she plays a pivotal role in shaping the artistic direction of the foundation, fostering a vibrant cultural environment that supports a wide range of artistic endeavors. Her leadership not only reflects her deep love for the arts but also her commitment to enriching the cultural landscape and supporting other artists in their professional journeys.
Ms. Dupre’s dual roles as a performer and educator make her a vital figure in the arts community, celebrated for both her awe-inspiring talent and her profound impact on the next generation of performers.
Thanks to the support of our partners and donors
