NYSCA in the News: GlassBarge, THAW Fest and a surprise artist in Rochester
NYSCA in the News is our digest of top reads about our grantees across the state. Read on to find out how arts organizations are creating essential programs in your community, and be inspired to take your art to the next level!
Floating Heritage Tour Celebrates Glass and the Erie Canal
“This spring, GlassBarge, a modern-day floating glassblowing studio, will take a similar trip to commemorate both the 150th anniversary of glassmaking in Corning and the bicentennial of the Erie Canal. 'It’s retracing a journey,' said Robert Cassetti, the senior director for creative strategy and visitor engagement at the Corning Museum of Glass, which is organizing the barge’s four-month tour beginning in mid-May. 'It’s an opportunity to bring the experience of live glassmaking and the heritage of Corning all across the state, and to celebrate the beauty and importance of New York waterways.'...GlassBarge will launch from Brooklyn Bridge Park — a stone’s throw from the original Brooklyn Flint Glass Company (now Corning Inc.) — and stop at dozens of waterfront communities to give free demonstrations...In port cities along GlassBarge’s route, nearby museums and institutions will contribute programming that depicts life along the Erie Canal in the 19th century." NYSCA supports GlassBarge through the Regional Economic Development Council initiative and provides additional support to the Corning Museum of Glass through our Museum Program.
A surprise discovery by a Rochester art center
“The Rochester Contemporary Art Center is getting ready to host the 6x6 exhibition. It's an annual art show that draws artists from around the globe. Some artists are well-known, while others are new to the craft and have no training at all. Late Congresswoman Louise Slaughter also submitted one. Her submission was a photo of Rochester's train station. The Center's Executive Director, Bleu Cease, was going though submissions just Wednesday morning when he found Rep. Slaughter's…Cease said he will most likely not sell Rep. Slaughter's work. However, all other submitted artwork will be exhibited and for sale to the public for $20 each. The art show runs June 2 - July 15. The deadline for all entries is April 15.” NYSCA supports the Rochester Contemporary Art Center through our Visual Arts Program.
Poughkeepsie Non-Profit The Art Effect Promotes Art Education
“The diverse careers enjoyed by graduates of The Art Effect illustrate the rather surprising effect of nurturing artistic abilities. Graduates of the Poughkeepsie-based, non-profit, arts education program currently work in animation, teach art, design stores and museums, and work as illustrators and photographers in film production and textile design…Although the Art Effect has technically only existed since January 1 of this year, it’s a merger of two long standing, Poughkeepsie arts programs, Mill Street Loft and Spark Media Project, which both helped students learn art and life skills…Since 2000, program graduates have been offered over $45 million in merit-based scholarships to leading colleges, universities, and art schools. The Art Effect plans to extend arts programs throughout the Hudson Valley, especially in urban areas, so more children can achieve their personal best—whether that’s becoming a working artist or developing interpersonal skills.” NYSCA supports The Art Effect through our Arts Education and Electronic Media & Film Programs.
Hamptons Arts Network to launch THAW Fest on LI’s East End
“Imagine rocking out with an Elton John tribute band, crafting inspiring banners or meandering through a sculpture garden — all in one weekend. Locals and visitors to the South Fork can do that and more Friday, March 23, through Sunday, March 25, at The Hamptons Arts Network’s inaugural THAW Fest, which will feature a slew of performances, exhibits, tours and family events from the network’s 19 nonprofit arts organizations. The Hamptons-based consortium officially formed last year to boost collaborative efforts and promote the area’s artistic vibrancy. 'We all do really amazing programming, but it’s not necessarily well known outside the region,' says Elka Rifkin, director of the Watermill Center and one of the founders of the arts network. 'The idea of an arts festival in the shoulder season of winter to spring came up. We just jumped on it.' Participating NYSCA grantees include the Watermill Center, Bay Street Theater, Parrish Art Museum and the Pollock-Krasner House and Study Center.
‘Get Lit’ Campaign Celebrates Irish Authors By Giving Away 10,000 Free Books On St. Patrick’s Day
“The Irish Arts Center [distributed] 10,000 free books this St. Patrick’s Day…at locations all across New York City…to educate the public on the cultural contributions of Irish authors… 'Each year Irish Arts Center Book Day celebrates the great literary tradition of Ireland and Irish America and the joy of reading with people of all backgrounds. This year, we are delighted to welcome El Museo del Barrio to join us in sharing great works by Irish and Caribbean writers,' said Rachael Gilkey of the IAC.'" Books were given away throughout the five boroughs. The event was also presented in association with the New York City Council, New York State Assembly, and Literature Ireland. NYSCA supports the Irish Arts Center through our Special Arts Services and Folk Arts Programs.
