The impressive results of Peekskill’s Artist District revitalization will be on display this weekend when the Arts Council holds its 14th Annual Open Studios. The event runs from noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. All art sites are free of charge.
In addition to the 40 or so artists opening their studios, over one hundred more will exhibit their works in the galleries, museums and other venues throughout downtown and beyond.
Artwork will include paintings, sculpture, photography, ceramics, drawings, prints and more.
“There’s art for every taste,” says Jo-Ann Brody, sculptor and co-organizer of the event. Art will be available for every budget too, ranging “from under fifty dollars to ten or twenty thousand,” says Larry D’Amico, painter and Arts Council president.
Most of the participating studios are not normally open to the public. “There will be finished work and work in progress -- it’s a good opportunity to talk to the artists about what they’re doing and why they’re doing it,” says Brody.
Guided tours to select studios will be conducted on both days at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., leaving from the Jan Peek Gazebo at the intersection of Park and Division Streets. Further information will be available at the gazebo, as well as maps for self-guided tours.
Shuttle buses will run throughout the day on a loop from the to the (HVCCA) to the historic , where many galleries are located, and back to the train station.
New this year is an outdoor exhibit across from the on Esther Street, complete with live music. In case of rain, the show will move into the on South Street, where other artists are exhibiting.
“There are a lot of professional artists in Peekskill,” says D’Amico. “And all of the participating artists are from the Peekskill area. Either they have a studio here, or live here, or they have a strong affiliation.”
The city’s goal in revitalizing downtown was to attract interesting people and develop a local cottage industry. Brody points out that it has been more than a success. “The HVCCA is a world-class museum.” And as for the Artist District itself, “It’s turned into a wonderful mixed bag.”
Gallery and Exhibition Listings:
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-The Flatiron Gallery
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-H’art Gallery & Steel Imaginations
-The Garden Gallery at Hudson River HealthCare Center
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- at the Peekskill Riverfront
-"Paint a C.L.E.A.N. footprint" Annual Outdoor Gallery Show at the Riverfront Green
-Peekskill Clay Studios @The Hat Factory
-STUDIO No.9
- Main Lobby Gallery
- Rotunda
