Origin of the "Doc" Kountze Festival

A portrait of Mabray "Doc" Kountze by Adele Travisano

The Mabray ”Doc” Kountze Arts Festival began over 10 years ago when artist Adele Travisano originated the group Medford Arts and Artists and planned the first window art displays in West Medford Square. The festival was named after Mabray Kountze, a local newspaper columnist also known affectionately as "Doc." In his career, Kountze wrote the book This Is Your Heritage, whose primary objective was to educate, provide and promote better interracial understanding. Adele was introduced to Doc by her friend Barbara Kennedy, a gifted actress, teacher, healer, and – according to Doc – an angel.

We continue to provide a different venue for the festival, as in the form of a film festival for the last couple of years. Although Doc and Barbara are no longer with us, they inspire us to carry on this wonderful cultural event as an annual Medford tradition.