YORK-Two familiar faces have returned to York to take on a new title. Artists Nathan Purath and Shana Berger have been named as the new directors for the Coleman Center for the Arts and Culture.

Purath, 27 and Berger, 25, enjoyed a short stay in York in early May when they traveled to Sumter Academy, Kinterbish School and West End each day to teach art classes. The artists even hosted a display of the art at the Coleman Center. Some of the art was even used to decorate the town. Billboard sized displays were put up around town and on the municipal complex.

The two enjoyed their stay so much they were more than happy to return. The city was also more than happy to welcome them back. York Mayor Carolyn Mitchell Gosa welcomed the pair back at Monday’s City Council meeting.

“We are so glad to have you here,” Gosa said. “I think it is safe to say they have hit the ground running. They have some ideas for York and we look forward to helping them.”

Gosa said the pair has brought e new energy to the city in their short time back. She said they have discussed some of the ideas on tap and have generated a lot of excitement.

“The spirit they bring is just so alive,” Gosa said. “Everybody has gotten on board with them and we just want to welcome them to York and let them know if there is anything we can do to help just let us know.”

Berger said their initial stay was short, but very enjoyable. She said they looked forward to coming back to the small Sumter County town and hoped to have a positive impact.

“We really enjoyed it last time we were here,” Berger said. “We are so happy to be back and we are really looking forward to it.”

Purath, in addition to his work with the Coleman Center will also join the beautification committee.

The two will stay very busy upon taking over the Coleman Center director’s duties. As directors the couple will oversee the general management of the grassroots, community-based arts center. They will work closely with the Board of Directors to develop a strategic plan that will enhance the organization’s mission and maintain its objectives.

One of the most important and challenging parts of the job will be fundraising. Purath and Berger will work closely with grant makers and assist the Board of Directors in planning and organizing fundraising events and the annual membership campaign along with several other responsibilities.

Berger and Purath are taking over for departed directors Amy Horst and Richard Saxton who left in the spring to begin a new project in Wisconsin.