3 DOTS DOWNTOWN, STATE COLLEGE, PA — February 6, 2026 — ClearWater Conservancy’s beloved Art & Chocolate fundraiser returns for its 28th year, bringing together conservation supporters, local artists, small businesses, bakers, chocolatiers, and craftspeople for an evening that celebrates creativity, community, and the natural world.
Held at 3 Dots Downtown, this annual event blends an in-person celebration with a robust online auction featuring local artwork, artisan-made items, gift baskets, experiences, handmade cards, jewelry, specialty foods, and plenty of chocolate — including decadent treats generously donated by area chocolatiers and restaurants.
This year’s exhibition is centered around the theme Echoes of the Wild, inviting attendees into a multidisciplinary exploration of nature’s lingering presence in our lives. From sound to movement, sculpture to poetry, the Art & Chocolate collection reflects how nature appears, returns, and resonates through memory, material, motion, and mood.
Dozens of beautiful pieces — all donated by local artists — will be on display and available for bidding. Many works capture Centre County’s forests, waters, and wildlife through landscape painting, photography, ceramics, sculpture, mixed media, and abstract interpretations. Alongside the fine art, attendees will find:
- Unique experiences such as guided outdoor adventures, workshops, and behind-the-scenes opportunities
- Local artisan goods, including pottery, woodcraft, handmade cards, jewelry, and textiles
- Gift baskets curated by community businesses and makers
- Artisanal foods and treats, including specialty chocolates, gourmet goods, and other locally crafted delicacies
- Donated chocolates and desserts from beloved local restaurants and chefs
Each year, artists may submit a piece for consideration as the event’s featured artwork.
This year’s judges — Lori Fisher and Erica Quinn— selected “Wish I Could Surf” by Jill Cardell.
“It was an honor to judge the Art & Chocolate exhibition and experience the depth of talent among our local artists. Following the theme of ‘Echoes in the Wild,’ each work offered a unique reflection of the natural world and our connection to it,” said Lori Fisher.
“The artwork submitted for consideration demonstrated a remarkable range of creativity and thoughtful responses to the theme.”
“Last winter, I had the opportunity to visit a beach in Florida. I sat on the shore watching the waves and wondered what they looked like from a surfer’s perspective. I remember imagining the beautiful water in all colors green and blue, hovering above me as I sank down from my surfboard,” Cardell said of her winning piece.
Cardell, a Spring Mills–based artist, draws deep inspiration from the natural world. With a background in studio art and botanical illustration, she has evolved her craft into expressive acrylic work that blends realism with abstraction.
“Art & Chocolate is such a celebration of our community,” said Elizabeth Crisfield, ClearWater’s Executive Director. “The artwork, artisan pieces, food, sweets, and experiences donated each year show just how deeply connected our region is — to each other and to our environment.”
Event Details
Art & Chocolate Fundraiser Event
Friday, February 6, 2026
4–8 PM
3 Dots Downtown, State College
The event is free to attend, and guests may pre-purchase a “Super Sweet” ticket (not required), which includes an exclusive box of chocolate and sweet treats crafted by local chefs. Super Sweet tickets go on sale in January, and the online auction opens January 16 until February 7 at noon. Live music will be at the event provided by local band, Porch Party.
All proceeds from the online auction, ticket sales, and generous sponsorships support ClearWater’s land conservation, watershed restoration & protection, and community-based environmental initiatives throughout central Pennsylvania.
More information, including auction previews and ticket links, is available at:
clearwaterconservancy.org/artandchocolate
ABOUT CLEARWATER CONSERVANCY
ClearWater Conservancy is a nationally accredited land trust and locally formed conservation organization nestled in the heart of central Pennsylvania. Since 1980, ClearWater has worked to improve and protect the natural resources of central Pennsylvania for all, through land conservation, water resource protection, and environmental outreach to the community.
Media Inquiries:
Katie Molinengo
Communications Director
ClearWater Conservancy
Office: 814-237-0400
Cell: 708-252-1032
katie@clearwaterconservancy.org