Sunday, June 28, 2009
Monday, May 18, 2009
APG "Bucks"
APG Bucks will be sold in increments of $5. For every $50 woth of bucks sold you will receive $5 worth buck bucks free. That's an additional 10% tp spend at the following.
The APG Store.
Raffle tickets.
BBQ and drink tickets at the show.
Admission and registration at the Show.
Membership and renewal fees.
APG Auction
Any service or product provided by the APG.
This is a great offer just in time for a Fathers Day gift. Why not use them for a birthday and other special occasion gifts and help support the APG.
For more info or to purchase APG Bucks contact Mike Stelzel at infomikeapg@aol.com
Friday, May 15, 2009
Unique Donation
The 5 1/4 by 8 1/2 piece of the painting was donated to the APG by Ms. Susan Boardman, Leadership Program Coordinator for the Gettyburg Foundation after a chance meeting with Historical Artist and Contributor Keith Rocco and APG President Mike Stelzel in Gettysburg on 9 May. Ms. Boardman is also a co author of the book The Battle of Gettysburg Cyclorama. A History and Guide.
The portion of the painting donated is actually from the sky area of the painting and was removed by conservators in 2006. " Part of the conservation plan included restoring the sky that was lost, removing the bottom added-on portion and over paint, and restoring the diaorama. Some smaller sections of added-on canvas (which was the originally the sky area in the 1880s-90s) were removed and used for patch material. This is piece of it, removed by the conservators during the summer of 2006."
This unique collectors item will be offered for sale during the Gettysburg Show as part of the miniature/art auction on Aug 8 at 2pm. Ms. Boardman also contributed an autographed copy of her book which will be included in the auction with the portion of the painting. Ms. Boardman will also be speaking on the painting during Keith Roccos seminar on Aug 8.
For more information on the artifact or the APG Show contact Mike Stelzel at infomikeapg@aol.com or visit the APG website at artistpresetrvationgroup.com
Saturday, April 11, 2009
APG Show Award Announced

Monday, April 6, 2009
Pickett at Gettysburg

Without question one of the most important pieces of eyewitness battlefield art to emerge from the American Civil War. Major General George E. Pickett, "Awaiting the Signal," signed and dated at Gettysburg, July 3, 1863 by Col. A. R. Boteler, executed within hours, or moments, of Pickett issuing the fateful order, "Up men and to your posts! Don't forget that you are from old Virginia!", that would result in one of the greatest and most tragic clashes in American military history, forever to be known as "Pickett's Charge."
His penchant for sketching battlefield scenes is well documented and there is a well known incident of Jackson querying Boteler about the subjects of his work. Pickett is depicted in this 5.75" x 8.75" gouache leaning against a tree with his arms folded in front, in the midst of a grove of trees. A number of dismounted officers in various uniforms are visible in the background with their horses. Pickett wears a double breasted frock coat with general's insignia clearly visible on the collar. His sword is suspended from a belt with an unidentified rectangular buckle, and his boots, with spurs, extend well above his knees. The characteristic curls of his hair roll down to the collar of his coat. Most significantly he wears a wide brim slouch hat with a small unidentified insignia on the front, whereas tradition has previously held that he was wearing a general grade officer's kepi at Gettysburg. Additionally, unlike the traditional description of Pickett being "filled with excitement" at the prospect of beginning the assault, his demeanor is clearly that of a man steeped in thought, doubtless contemplating the importance of the drama that is about to unfold. "Awaiting the Signal Gettysburg July 3, 1863" in ink script at the bottom. Boteler's signature with A. R. inside the two loops of the letter B is at the lower right. Doubtless executed in the field by Boteler as a pencil sketch and subsequently finished by him as a gouache. The image is on an old archival mount with a further pencil script ID at the bottom of the mount, "No. 21 Gen. Pickett, by Col. A. R. Boteler, of Gen. Lee's staff."
An incredible piece of Civil War battlefield art.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Keith Rocco Sketch
Wanted to pass this along from our friend Keith Rocco.
He's donated this pencil sketch for our auction at this summers show. The drawing can also be seen in his latest book on page 234. He's been gracious enough to donate the original for the auction.

Enjoy!
Sunday, March 8, 2009
First the awards time has changed. The awards ceremony was originally planned for Sat night immediately after the BBQ. We've now moved to 1pm on Sunday afternoon. Hope that doesn't affect any ones flights.
Second. John Jefferies has notified me that the vendors tables are going fast. To keep anyone from being disappointed or left out, I strongly encourage anyone planning to come to the show as a vendor to contact John and book your table(s) ASAP. You can reach him at birchtreejohn@aol.com or call him at 516-379-4464.
We will also be posting more info on the competetion ie catagories, judgng times etc, very soon.
Stay tuned.
Thanks,
Mike
Saturday, March 7, 2009
First and most importantly we have a DRAFT of the show schedule. I'll post it here but keep in mind times can be subject to change.
Keith Rocco, Ron Tunison, and Terry Karselis have all agreed to donate pieces of their work as raffle prizes in addition to the GPS and Shep Paine book. We'll post pictures as soon as we have them. Raffle tickets are now on sale for the raffle. If you're not familiar with the raffle the 1st place winner will win a custom bust sculpted and painted by Matt Springer. Rules for the raffle are on our website at artistpreservationgroup.com/raffle.htm
You can also now book your room at the Wyndam directly from our site. Go to http://www.wyndham.com/groupeventsnew/mdtge_artist/main.wnt If you are arriving before Aug 5 or staying later than Aug 12 should contact the Wyndam directly to receive the special show rates.
We've had some question about tours prior to Aug 7 and after the 9th. If you are interested in something please let me know and if there is enough interest we can arrange something. There may be a fee involved as we may need to hire a licensed guide. Call or write 540-343-2241 or infomikeapg@aol.com
Hats off to Bob Langenberg and Jim Marshall. They raised almost $2000 at a reception they had in Montgomery, AL for the flag project. APG members under the supervision of Matt Springer and John Lea raised over $2500 at the Atlanta Show. $500 of that money came directly from the Atlanta Club as their annual donation. Another special mention should go to Jon Harbuck. His Little Round Top vignette sold for $1000 to a collector. All of that money goes to the APG. Thanks to everyone that manned the table, sold raffle tickets, memberships, and kits. Thanks to the Atlanta Club for their hospitality and donation as well.
Looking forward to seeing everyone at the MFCA Show. Be sure to stop by the table and say hi.
Regards,
Mike Stelzel
DRAFT Schedule as of 03/6/09
Friday 7 Aug 09
8-11 Vendor Set up
11-6 Registration Display Opens
10 am The Myths of Gettysburg. Park Guide. High Water Mark 60 min.
4 pmThe Wheatfield and Rose Farm. Licensed Battlefield Guide TBA 60min.
7:00-9:00pm Vendor's Cocktail Party Wyndam Hotel.
TBA Seminar
TBA Seminar
Saturday 8-Aug 09
9-12 Registration
900 Vendor Room open
1000-1200 Uniform and Artifact Exhibit. Greg Goodell NPS. Visitors Center 40min (3 presentations) **
TBA Seminar
TBA Seminar
2:00 Auction
4:00 Little Round Top. Park Licensed Battlefield Guide Little Round Top 60min
4:30 Vendor and Exhibit room close
6:30 BBQ ** Awards will be presented immediately after the BBQ (nlt 8pm)
Sunday 9 Aug 09
0900 Vendor and exhibit rooms open
1000 Pickett’s Charge Tour Park Guide. Virginia Monument 2 hours1300 Show Closes.
Tours and Presentations.
Friday 11:00 Myths of Gettysburg- High Water Mark. Learn what's fact or fiction about the battle. Presented by the National Park Service Friday
4:00 The Wheatfield- TBA. This tour will focus on the fighting on the second day at the Wheatfield and Rose Farm. Included will be an examination of period photographs. ** Presented by a Licensed Battlefield Guide
Sat 10:00 Uniform and Artifact Exhibit Visitors Center. Greg Goodell Curator for the Park will present some of articles from the parks collection not on display. Greg will also speak about the collection and the history of some of the artifacts. Because of limited space in the curatorial space we will have 3 groups of 20 for 40 minutes at a time. ** Greg Goodell.
Sat 4:00 Little Round Top- Little Round Top. Learn about the fighting on Little Round Top scene of the 20th Maine's heroic stand. ** Presented by a Licensed Battlefield Guide.
Sun 10-12 Pickett’s Charge. Learn the facts of the infamous charge including the participation of the 5th Alabama and its colors. Be prepared to walk 1 mile from the Virginia Monument to Cemetery Hill and back. Old shoes are recommended especially if there has been recent rain. The ground can also be wet in low spots even during dry weather. Group will meet at the Virginia Monument NLT 1000. If you choose not to walk back to your car after the presentation arrangements should be made to be picked up on Cemetery Hill. Directions: From the entrance to the Wyndam Complex turn left and follow Route 30 through town to the ... follow road to the Virginia Monument on left. Park in designated area. Approximate travel time 15 min. Presented by the National Park Service
Seminars
Historical Art- Capturing the Past - A 40 minute slide show by Keith Rocco and past historical artists. Keith explains the method that both he and artists such as Remington, Meissonier, and Detaille used to create this genre of art. Keith Rocco 40 min TBA **
Airbrushing Techniques - Chris Mrosko 60 min TBA **
Shepard Paine - Vignettes and Diorama Composition **
Bill Merklin - Converting figures. 60 min TBA **
Matt Springer- Sculpting and Painting The Hancock Bust
** Sign Up required.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Saturday, November 1, 2008
Cedar Mountain Battlefield
http://www.hmdb.org/marker.asp?marker=4448
Check out this view.
http://www.usa-civil-war.com/Cedar_Mountain/cedar_mtn.html
The winner of our Fall Membership Drive has been chosen. Kevin Tucker is the lucky winner and will have his choice of a painted figure from our collection or a free night at the Wyndam Gettysburg during the 2009 Show. Congratulations Kevin!
Our Membership Drive drew in over 30 new members and $1200 in donations during the months of September and October. Thanks to everyone that participated and welcome aboard to all new members.
Friday, October 31, 2008

The Gettysburg Daily is an independent website, whose purpose is to provide at least one picture a day related in some way to Gettysburg.
http://webmail.east.cox.net/do/redirect?url=http%253A%252F%252Fwww.gettysburgdaily.com%252F
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Restoration at it's finest.
Enjoy!
Mike
Trailhead: PT Boat 658
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Oct Update

Monday, October 20, 2008
Monday, September 8, 2008
More Show News!
First. I am thrilled to announce that Mr. Sheperd Paine has agreed to join the APG as an Honorary Director and Show Chairman for the 2009 Gettysburg Show. I think everyone will agree that having Shep on board will be a huge asset to the APG in all aspects of our organization but especially with his expertise in running shows and his wide reach across the hobby. Welcome aboard Shep.
I was also privileged to visit with Bob Langenberg and his beautiful wife Ann this weekend in Montgomery Alabama. Bob and Ann are the best of hosts and I enjoyed every minute of my stay. (Including the 3 lb bass I caught in Bob’s pond). While there we met with Mr Bob Bradley, Curator with the Alabama Dept of Archives and History. He took us to the repository were we viewed the flag of the 5th Alabama Bn, the focus of our 2008-2009 fundraising effort. Viewing and touching (with gloves and very, very carefully) this stained and bullet riddled banner was a once in a lifetime opportunity. Mr. Bradley also gave us a great behind the scenes tour of the archives which included the many other famous Alabama flags in their collection. Mr. Bradley, much to our surprise and great pleasure, offered to bring the flag of the 5th to the Show in Gettysburg! Mr Bradley is a wealth of information and an excellent speaker who goes beyond any expectations in telling the story of these this and all the flags in the repository. His presence along with the flag will be a highlight if not the highlight of the show. I can’t tell you the feeling that came over me when he made the offer. I can tell you that viewing this flag in person and listening to its story from Mr. Bradley will be a very unique and rewarding experience for everyone attending.
John Jefferies will be sending flyers to prospective vendors for the show in the next week or so. If you are a vendor I hope you will consider attending and sharing your goods with out attendance. There are some benefits for signing up early so don’t delay!
Thanks for your support!
Mike Stelzel
Monday, September 1, 2008
Membership drive starts now...
A venue change...
We've changed the location of show; our new venue is now the Gettysburg Wyndam. Visit the site here:

Saturday, August 9, 2008
I get asked that question alot. We started raising money by selling painted miniatures but the buyers market is small and can be hard to reach. Delivery of the painted pieces could be problematic. Shipping these things is risky at best. Delivering in person could also be a logistical problem. We still sell painted miniatures and several clubs have allowed us to put on a live auction and we try to man a table at the shows to sell the stuff in person. But selling painted miniatures isn't the only way we raise money. Here are some ideas for everyone, including folks that don't paint or collect to help.
Become a Member.
For an individual becoming a member is probably the easiest way to get involved. Membership is $35 a year with a $25 renewal. (for anyone under 18 the fee is $15 and $10) For $35 you will receive your choice of gift. Currently those choices are an APG T-shirt, personalized paperweight, or name tag. Other benefits are a 10% discount at Michael Roberts Ltd, 10% off APG Store items, and discounted admission to our show. Right now our membership is small but as it grows we hope to include other benefits and incentives to join. Just today I had some one who is in the process of starting a miniature company offer a %10 discount once he starts production.
Individuals can also make a donation. We are now officially a Not for Profit Organization registered in the Commonwealth of VA. and will soon have our 5013C status. (check with your tax guy for any benefits that may be appropriate) People can also check with their employers to see if they offer any matching funds for donations to Not for Profit groups. In many case these benefits aren't known to employees. It's a great way to double your money!
Club, Business, and Organizational Support.
We've asked clubs, business, and other organizations to support us with donations. For that we link your organizations' website to ours and list you on our website. Sort of free advertising. We hope to expand the benefits of that in the future. Another idea that could be fun would be for your group to have a raffle of donated items from your "grey army" at one of your meetings. Hold a flea market at your meeting and charge a percentage of sold items. Donate that to the APG. One club just put out a "donation" coffee can and filled it up at meetings. The Atlanta Military Figure Society has offered an annual donation from proceeds from their show. In this case the club is honoring their charter to educate, support the hobby, and military history.They have also graciously offered to pay our legal fees for gaining our Not for Profit and 5013C status. There are lots of ideas. Use your imagination! If you have any ideas on how we can raise money please share it with us.
We will soon anounce plans for a membership drive. Once the dates are decided we will offer a raffle if we gain 10 or more new members. The raffle prize will be a painted miniature. More to come on that.
Of course you can help by attending the show next summer. All of those profits will go to our restoration and conservation projects.
Remember that all donations of time, material, and resources go to our restoration, conservation, and preservation efforts. No one is paid and no compensation is given for anyones work. We have some small administration costs and most of that is donated.
Thanks for your support.
Mike Stelzel
President
APG
Sunday, July 27, 2008
The Gettysburg Show 7 - 9 August 2009
The Artist Preservation Group invites you to join us in honoring the spirit of men like them on Aug 7-9 2009 in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania at the Eisenhower Hotel and Conference Center. The APG will be hosting a miniature show and art exhibit in order to raise funds for our ongoing restoration and preservation projects. Here's a quick update on where we are for the 2009 Gettysburg Show:
- We're starting to line up seminars for the show. As of today we have Matt Springer, Chris Mrosko, and Keith Rocco. Matt will be doing is on the sculpting and painting of his 2009 APG bust. Chris will be giving us a demonstration of his superior airbrushing techniques. Keith will be giving his presentation titled "Working on a Grand Scale-Cycloramas". Several others are in the works and we will announce those when they become available.
- We have a contract with the hotel and they've given us an extremely good rate of $110 a night for double occupancy. That rate is good for one week prior to and one week after the show. We'd like to encourage folks to bring the family and make a vacation out of the weekend!
- We are also beginning to put up links on our web site (http://www.artistpreservationgroup.com/gettysburg.htm) for other attractions in the area as well as a link to the Gettysburg Visitors and Convention Bureau. For those traveling by air we will also be listing airports in the area and contact information on transportation from the airport to Gettysburg.
- In lieu of a banquet we are planning a barbeque on Sat. night. We are tinkering with some sort of a contest at the barbeque; John Jefferies is working this. Stand by for news on that. Should be fun.
- We've talked with Keven Dunne, and he's working on a event that would feature some reenactors and Picketts Charge. As soon as it's available we will post the list of events hosted by the National Park Service for those days encompassing the show. As a side note, there is no charge for these Battlefield Walks and they are excellent presentations that are given on location in the park. Mike attended one a few years ago on the fight at the Wheatfield and Rose Woods given by Scott Hartwig and it was superb. There are also demonstartions given at various locations in the park by reenactors on subjects like artillery, sharpshooters, infantry tactics, etc. We will post that info as well when available.
- Vendors are encouraged to contact John Jefferies ASAP for tables(birchtreejohn@aol.com) there is an incentive for booking early...
If you have any questions, please contact Mike (infomikeapg@aol.com), Patrick (fourkirks@aol.com) or John Jefferies (birchtreejohn@aol.com). Pete (pculos@histroybrush.com) or Kreston (kbpeckham@aol.com) are avialable for questions, too.

