Guardian of the Arts
A New Legacy for Mount Gretna
A stunning new addition is coming to the Mount Gretna Playhouse! Thanks to a collaboration between the Pennsylvania Chautauqua, Mount Gretna Arts Council, and the Mim Enck Charitable Foundation, Guardian of the Arts, a breathtaking 12-foot bronze sculpture and water feature, will take its place at the Playhouse’s northeast corner on May 24, 2025. This tribute honors those who have dedicated their time, talent, and resources to the arts in our community.
About the Sculpture
Commissioned and graciously donated to the Arts Council by the Mim Enck Charitable Foundation, this remarkable work by internationally acclaimed Mount Gretna artist Cory Wanamaker encapsulates the grace and sophistication of Mim Enck. Water—a motif integral to Mim’s life and artistry—gently cascades from its wings and hands, symbolizing purity, healing, and the transformative spark of creative inspiration. As a cherished, longtime resident of Mount Gretna, Mim’s enduring legacy is eloquently celebrated in this evocative tribute
More than a personal tribute, Guardian of the Arts honors all who have championed the arts in Mount Gretna—those who founded our arts organizations, rebuilt the Playhouse after its 1994 collapse, and continue to preserve and promote artistic expression today.
The sculpture is being expertly cast by A.R.T. Research Enterprises, a world-class foundry based in Lancaster, known for restoring bronze features at the U.S. Capitol and other significant works of public art. Landscape artist Ryan Fretz, another friend of Mim, will enhance the setting to complement the sculpture, ensuring it harmonizes with its natural surroundings.
Mim Enck: A Life of Art, Elegance, and Influence
Mim Enck was a woman of remarkable taste, talent, and influence. Raised in Lancaster County, she built a celebrated career in the culinary arts, working as a food stylist and studying under legendary chefs such as Julia Child, Diana Kennedy, and Marcella Hazan. Her passion for food and culture led her across the world, culminating in a deep appreciation for tea and coffee.
After marrying Walter Progner, founder of East Indies Coffee & Tea Company, Mim became one of the world’s foremost authorities on tea, earning international respect in a traditionally male-dominated industry. She was also a tireless advocate for women in business.
Beyond her professional achievements, Mim was a dedicated supporter of the arts. A longtime board member and patron of Gretna Music, she championed the belief that "business needs to support the arts." Her generosity extended to providing coffee, tea, and accessories for the Playhouse concession stand and supporting arts organizations near and far. In 2022, she was posthumously inducted into the Lebanon County Women’s Hall of Fame for her contributions to the arts.
About the Artists
Cory Wanamaker
A Fulbright Scholar and internationally recognized artist, Cory Wanamaker has lived and worked across the globe but considers Mount Gretna home. His work, found in collections worldwide, focuses on storytelling through sculpture, blending cultural heritage with artistic innovation.
Through his studio, Airy Hill Studio, he continues to create thought-provoking works that celebrate history, nature, and artistic heritage.
Ryan Fretz
A Mount Gretna native with a background in fine art and landscaping, Ryan specializes in harmonizing nature and art. His deep reverence for the natural world is evident in his designs, making him the perfect collaborator for this project.
How You Can Help
Donate Green Wine Bottles
The base of the sculpture will feature crushed green wine bottles, a tribute to Mim and Walter’s renowned wine collection. We need 200 clean, label-free bottles by mid-March. Drop-off locations will be announced soon.
Support the Conservation Fund
To ensure Guardian of the Arts remains a lasting legacy, the Mount Gretna Arts Council is establishing a restricted conservation fund for maintenance, supplies, and insurance. Your donation will provide both immediate and long-term support for this important piece of public art.
Checks can be made payable to Mount Gretna Arts Council – Arts Conservation Fund and sent to:
Mount Gretna Arts Council, PO Box 513, Mt. Gretna, PA 17064
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, all donations are tax-deductible.
Join Us for the Unveiling!
Celebrate the arts and honor Mount Gretna’s creative legacy at the unveiling of Guardian of the Arts on May 24, 2025, at 2:30 PM during the Mount Gretna Summer Kickoff. We hope to see you there!