The Wyoming Valley Art League was organized December 10, 1954 by Caroline T. Williams and Marjorie Harvey Smith in conjunction with members of the Wyoming Valley Women's Club. Their first meeting was held at the Osterhout Library in Wilkes Barre,PA. with about 60 people in attendance. Officers were selected and chair people were appointed in formulating the official organization. A constitution was adopted on May 13, 1955 and incorporation followed in February, 1957.

    Over the years the League has become a valuable and aesthetic asset to the community. Contributing to its progress were several notable members. George May was instrumental in bringing prestigious exhibits from museums and galleries to the Art League; Edith Reynolds was a contributing benefactor when a trust fund was bequeathed to the League after her death in 1965. The League has met in various locations during the years, arriving at its present location at 239 Schuler Avenue in Kingston PA.

   The Art League came close to disbanding during the Agnes flood of 1972. However, through the efforts of Jack Trompetter, and a government grant, it continued to bring art to the community.

   In 1983, in honor of Ms. Reynolds, the League established the Edith Reynolds Award for Excellence in Painting, which is presented periodically to a league artist whose work demonstrates consistent excellence.

   Each year the WVAL sponsors exhibits in both the Fall & Spring for members to show their original works. Each exhibit is a very exciting event commencing with a social reception and display of members talents in various media. During the reception program, monetary awards are presented for artistic achievement in the following categories: (1) Painting– Oil/Acrylic, (2) Watercolors - any aqueous medium under glass, including acrylic, gouache, tempera, casein. And (3) Graphics—including pastel, collage, graphite, pen/ink, charcoal and mixed media. Photography and 3-d awards may vary with participation. Works remain on display for several weeks and the public is invited.

    Wyoming Valley Art League Members are invited each year to participate in Wilkes Barre, PA’s  Fine Arts Fiesta, which is held the third week of May on Public Square in Wilkes Barre. This is a public event and provides an opportunity for public exposure since the art work is seen by thousands of people who attend Fiesta each year.

     Throughout the year the Art League provides information to its members of upcoming shows and exhibits through its monthly News-letter and provides a monthly workshop with a guest artist and lecture.