ArtsFest Celebrates the Arts in New Rochelle and Pelham

“ArtsFest 2017” drew hundreds of people to New Rochelle and Pelham, with more than 32 locations offering free art exhibits, demonstrations and performances October 6th through 8th. Among the highlights were a free ArtsFest trolley, a classic car show on Hamilton Avenue and an afternoon of live music on two stages at the Habitat for Humanity Re-Store that helped raise money for hurricane victims in Texas, Florida and Puerto Rico.

All weekend long artists opened their studios and shared their stories with visitors: They ranged from collaborative studios like High Brook in Pelham, where artists Frank Buddingh', Lance Johnson, Barry Mason, John Mignault, Stacy Miller, Victoria Rolett, Kathy Rutsch, Scott Seaboldt share work space, to the private studios of artists Marie Hines Cowan, Charles Fazzino, Patricia Miner-Sutherland, and Martha Valenzuela. Visual arts were also the focus at a variety of galleries that ranged from institutions like Iona College’s Brother Kenneth Chapman Gallery and The College of New Rochelle’s Castle Gallery to independent galleries like Gallery Roc and the new Lord & Andra gallery on Division Street.

And then there were “galleries” in unexpected locations, like the Queen City Gallery art space at Montefiore NR, works by Tania Guerrera on view at Jolo’s Restaurant, Patrick Bancel’s paintings on the walls of R Patisserie and owner Alvin Clayton’s new work on display at Alvin & Friends Restaurant. Sutton Florists even hung large-scale works by artist Marie Hines Cowan in their windows.

Local dance studios including the Coleman School of Dance, Dance Connection and Capoeria Luanda offered specially-priced lessons, while Vincent’s Fine Jewelry in Pelham even had a jewelry making activity for children on Saturday afternoon.

Some venues were mini-festivals unto themselves: The Pelham Art Center had a combination of exhibits and programming that included a folk arts story time for children, a spoken word performance by writers from the group 650, live music and free sample art classes, while the grow! Lincoln Park Community Garden’s event combined music, dance, food and a petting zoo. And Hudson Park Children’s Greenhouse committee offered free pumpkin painting on Saturday, giving families a chance to visit the soon-to-be-restored greenhouse.

“We were really happy to help local businesses connect with the arts,” said NRCA President Theresa Kump Leghorn. “Our Friday night kick off, Arts in Oktoberfest, featured free tastings of local beers and ciders from Diner Brew Company, Captain Lawrence, Harlem Brewing, Manhattan Beer Distributors and Yonkers Brewing at local galleries as well as businesses like Sutton Florist and the new Lord & Andra Gallery.”

ArtsFest sponsors included Gwendolyn Appleyard Trust, Charles Fazzino, ArtsWestchester, Montefiore NR, Alvin & Friends Restaurant, Iona College, Pepe Mercedes Benz, Gallery Roc and AJ’s Burgers.

Organized by the New Rochelle Council on the Arts, ArtsFest highlights the variety of arts and arts venues in New Rochelle and Pelham, with art exhibits, programs and family-friendly activities at more than 30 venues that give both visitors and residents alike a window into the city’s rich cultural and artistic diversity. The celebration will include live music, great food, exciting performances, and eclectic shopping. Visit the NRCA website at www.newrochellearts.org or email info@newrochellearts.org for more information.