Easthampton City Arts

Mixed Media Artist Samantha Pliska Exhibits at the Greater Easthampton Chamber Gallery

2011-11-15T14:48:00.001-05:00

Samantha Pliska will exhibit in the Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce Gallery from November 17 through January 10, 2012.

The mixed media artist will exhibit her abstract paintings and montage sculptures. Although a photographer at heart, Pliska has embarked on new work that uses acrylic, spray paint, wood, wax, ink, alcohol ink, and found objects. The artist explores the concept of beauty and how it can be perceived from different viewpoints. Her abstract paintings are more internalized while her found object sculptures reflect upon kitsch with the use of toys, religious emblems, and more. However she approaches her art, Pliska finds her inspirations from the same place. She says, “I always enter with an open mind, close my eyes, dig deep and let go. No matter what I am working on, I always end up with paint all over me, even if I'm not painting.”

Pliska studied criminal justice at Holyoke Community College and studied art under Dean Nimmer. This will be the artist’s first solo exhibition.

The exhibit is free and open to the public. The gallery located at 33 Union Street, Easthampton, MA, is open Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

LIGHT UP THE ARTS HOLIDAY BASH

2011-11-10T15:52:00.001-05:00

On December 8, 2011, from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. ECA+ invites the community to celebrate the Light up the Arts Holiday Bash—an evening that will include a Small Works Show, the annual silent auction, ECA+ Best of the Valley Volunteer Arts Awards, and a DJ dance after party. The evening will be catered by the Apollo Grill. All community members, art lovers, and artists are invited to attend this festive night at the Historic Town Hall located at 43 Main Street, Easthampton, MA.

The Small Works Show is a salon style exhibition that will include numerous artists both local and beyond who will show their small scale works in the ECA+ Gallery. It will be a cash and carry format, encouraging buyers to purchase gifts for the holidays at affordable prices. All works will be smaller than 8 1/2” x 11”, and some much smaller being 1” square. Attendees are encouraged to bring cash.

The Silent Auction will include goods from local businesses and artists. The bidding for this annual auction will begin at 6:30 p.m. and end at 8:30 p.m. Some of the auction items include selections and gift certificates by Popcorn Noir, the Lift Hair Salon, East Heaven Paradise Spa, Pioneer Valley Ballet, Valley Art Supplies, and many more. Bidding will begin low but is expected to grow throughout the evening. A cash raffle will also be available for purchase throughout the evening.

Volunteer Awards

This year ECA+ is excited to give outstanding individuals awards for their service to the pioneer valley arts community and ECA+. Two awards will be announced: the 2011 Best ECA+ Volunteer Award and the 2011 Best Pioneer Valley Creative Volunteer Award. These chosen individuals have given their time and service to the cultivation of the arts in the community. Join us to find out if you are the winner!

AfterParty

Following the silent auction and small works show at 8:30 p.m., bidding and selling will come to an end and all can enjoy a DJ dance after party with DJ Youthelectronix at Flywheel.

This event is open to the public and admission is free. Enjoy the delectable catering by the Apollo Grill. For more information please see easthamptoncityarts.com.

ECA+ Hosts Cottage Street Artists coinciding with Cottage Street Studios 25th Anniversary

2011-10-21T17:09:00.001-04:00

Twenty-one artists and crafters will exhibit in "Cottage Street Studio preview" in the Easthampton City Arts+ Gallery from November 12 through December 3, 2012. An artists’ reception will be held on Saturday, November 12, from 5:00-8:00 p.m. during Art Walk Easthampton. The reception will be sponsored in-part by High and Mighty Beer.

In this annual exhibit at the ECA+ Gallery, Cottage Street Studio Artists exemplify a growing number of renowned artists and crafters whose annual sales in December and June have become a traditional destination point for art viewers and shoppers in the pioneer valley and beyond. During this December sale on December 2-4, Cottage Street Studios celebrates its 25th anniversary. This annual sale will follow the exhibit at ECA+, giving a preview to the works of 18 participating artists and creative businesses.

The following artists will be exhibiting in the Cottage Street Studio Exhibition: Amanda Barrow, Linda Batchelor, Kate Childs, Karen Iglehart, Suzette Jones, Mary Ann LaDuke, Ruth Kjaer, Lynn Latimer of Latimer Glass, Sharon Ligorner, Levy Larocque, NESAW ( New England School of Architecture Woodworking), Ellen Koteen, Janine Norton, Patricia Parker, Laura Radwell, Riverside Industries Artists, Annie Steiner, Evelyn Snyder of Kaleidoscope Pottery, Briana Taylor, and Justin Thomas and Janna Ugone of Ugone and Thomas.

The exhibit is free and open to the public. The ECA+ gallery is located at 43 Main Street, Easthampton, MA.

Special Old Town Hall November Art Walk sponsor High and Mighty Beer Co.

INVITATION FOR BIDS

2011-09-28T15:25:00.002-04:00

The City of Easthampton and Easthampton City Arts+ seek bids for the creation of approximately 40 fiberglass bears of various sizes for Easthampton 2012 Bear Fest. Interested parties may download a bid package which includes date information and bid requirements.

CALL TO ARTISTS FOR 2012

2011-09-21T00:54:00.001-04:00

Easthampton City Arts+ Gallery is seeking artists/artisans to apply for exhibition for the 2012 exhibition season. For more information download a 2012 Prospectus.

The Easthampton City Arts+ Gallery is located in the Historic Town Hall at 43 Main Street in Easthampton, MA, home to other arts businesses and organizations. The ECA+ Gallery exhibits the works of ECA+ members, local artists, and regional artists. A wide-array of artists have exhibited their work in the ECA+ gallery representing a diverse range of medias and stylistic considerations. All are encouraged to apply.

DEADLINE: December 1, 2011

ELIGIBILITY: Open to all artists

ENTRY INFORMATION:
• Send 3 images or links to website images to info@easthamptoncityarts.com
• Include a description in 300 words or less about your proposed exhibition
• Include a C/V and/or bio
• Name three months you are able to exhibit from January – December 2012

If you are unable to send digital images, please mail three images, description, c/v, and month preferences to Easthampton City Arts+, c/o Burns Maxey, 43 Main Street, Easthampton, MA 01027. Please do not send slides. Images and descriptions will not be returned.

FILL THE WALLS! ECA+ PRESENTS a SALON EXHIBITION of SMALL WORKS

2011-09-20T23:56:00.000-04:00

Call to Artists – Easthampton City Arts+ hosts its 3rd Annual Small Works Show. An exhibit that aims to benefit patrons and artists, the ECA+ Small Works exhibit is offering a cash and carry format for what is looking to be an amazing salon style show!

The exhibit will run from December 8, 2011 – January 10, 2012. Bought works will be given upon purchase to the buyer and artists will be paid directly. ECA+ requests a 25% commission to the gallery from the artist for all purchases. Artists may submit multiple pieces for the show and are encouraged to keep their prices below $100, however this is not an obligation.

To submit work for consideration, please email info@easthamptoncityarts.com with an image of your work, title, size, your name, and location. If the work has not yet been produced, please submit a description.

DEADLINE
November 25, 2011

ELIGIBILITY
Open to all artists

SIZE REQUIREMENTS
No larger than 8 .5" x 11"

MEDIUM/INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS
There is no medium requirement, however all works must be ready to install/hang. Artist supplies pedestals for 3-dimensional work.

ABOUT THE GALLERY
The Easthampton City Arts+ Gallery is located in the Historic Town Hall at 43 Main Street in Easthampton, MA, home to other arts businesses and organizations. The ECA+ Gallery exhibits the works of ECA+ members, local artists, and regional artists. A wide-array of artists have exhibited their work in the ECA+ gallery representing a diverse range of mediums and stylistic considerations. All are encouraged to apply.

ACCEPTED WORKS
• Deliver work on December 6 from 12 - 6 p.m. at 43 Main Street Easthampton, MA 01027
• Pick up unsold work Wednesday, January 11, 2011, from 12 - 6 p.m.

Twelve Artists Show in Hidden/Private side of artists

2011-09-20T22:29:00.001-04:00

Twelve selected artists/artisans will exhibit in “Hidden/Private side of artists” in the Easthampton City Arts+ gallery from October 8 through November 9, 2011. An artists’ reception will be held on Saturday, October 8, from 5:00-8:00 p.m. during Art Walk Easthampton.

In an exhibition curated by artist Marcia Reed, twelve local artists/artisans who are reputed for a specific type of work will be showing a more vulnerable side that rarely leaves their studios. Marcia Reed who has exhibited her landscapes extensively says, “This show came about because I’m always creating pieces that I rarely ever show privately, never mind publicly,” she explains.

Reed selected a variety of artists whose work she was familiar with and she was confident that they created other works outside of their traditional confines. Reed says, “My hopes were to fill the small gallery space with work by twelve local artists who are known for a specific medium or style. Perhaps they are known for their evocative intimate interiors with dramatic lighting, or creating exquisite refined marquetry furniture," says Reed.

Artists included in the exhibition are Susan Boss, Mark Brown, Frank Cressotti, Susan Halls, Alix Hegeler, Natania Hume, Juli Kirk, Silas Kopf, Burns Maxey, Marcia Reed, Justin Thomas, and Susanna White.

The exhibit is free and open to the public. The ECA+ gallery is located at 43 Main Street, Easthampton, MA.

ARTHAMPTON: SHOWCASING THE ARTS IN EASTHAMPTON

2011-09-12T16:37:00.000-04:00

Easthampton City Arts+ presents ArtHampton: Showcasing the Arts on October 1, 2011, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This second annual studio tour day sponsored by the Valley Advocate and made possible by the Massachusetts Cultural Council will feature local artists and artisans who will open their studios and display their work throughout the streets of Easthampton, sharing their processes through demonstrations, exhibits, and performances. Participating restaurants will also offer specials to visitors throughout the day.

See the ArtHampton map

Over 50 artists will be displaying and demonstrating their work in locations throughout the city of Easthampton including Eastworks, Paragon Arts and Industry Building, Old Town Hall, East Village Art Gallery and Café, One Cottage Street, White Square Books, Platterpus, too, and more. Full-color maps, listing all participants and their locations will be available. Visitors can find maps in area arts venues, studios, and other prominent business locations.

A wide variety of artists showcasing their work will include Boss/Brown Art on Water Street, Ugone and Thomas, Lynn Latimer, and Angela Zammarelli in One Cottage Street; Marlene Rye and Catherine Gibbs in the Paragon Arts and Industry Building; City Joinery (a new woodworker/furniture designer in the area), BMW Ironworks, and Caroline Batson in Eastworks; Ron Parent and Anselblue Design Studio outside of the Old Town Hall; and Maggie Nowinski who will performing throughout the streets. Some of these artists are new to the event while others are eager to participate again because of the success of last year's attendance and response.

Offers by Easthampton restaurants can be found on the ArtHampton map. These discounts will only be available to ArtHampton viewers on October 1. Restaurants such as Nini’s Ristorante and the Apollo Grill that open after ArtHampton concludes at 3:00 p.m., will offer specials for that evening only. Other participating restaurants include the Silver Spoon, La Casita Azteca, Mt. Tom’s Homemade Ice Cream and Candy, Antonio’s Pizza and Wings and Things, Amy’s Place, Bar and Grill and more.

ArtHampton is free and open to the public. ArtHampton maps will be available during the event at locations throughout the city of Easthampton and beyond. For viewers who prefer digital to paper, a google map will soon be available via QR code found on the ECA+ website and on area flyers.

Participating Artists include:

Adell Donaghue

After Midnight

Angela Zammarelli

Annie Steiner

Anselblue Design Studio

Boss Brown Art

Catherine Gamble

Coney Island Galleries

Country Dance and Song Society

Distinct Instinct, Fabiola Guiteau

East Village Art Gallery& Café

Eastmont Custom Framing

Healy Guitars and Lauren Parent

Inspiration Arts Gallery

Jacqueline Dougherty

Janice Beetle Godleski - Beetle Press
Janice Beetle Godleski

Jeff Derose

Joshua Vrysen
Kaleidoscope Pottery

Karen Iglehart
Kate Childs

Kathleen Trestka, Traveling Shoes Studio

Lathrop Community Art Gallery

Lynne Feinberg

Mie Kurahara
Michael MacTavish

Nick Blais Magic

Piper Glass and Steel

Samantha Pliska

Steven Stankiewicz

Susan Barocas Fine Art

Suzette Alsop Jones

Tina Peloquin

Ugone & Thomas

Valley Women’s Martial Arts

White Square Fine Books andArt

Zoe Ma (Valley of the Doll)

4th Annual Paint Out Spreads Color in Easthampton

2011-09-09T17:06:00.000-04:00

Paint Out Artists in the Orchard

The Pioneer Valley has a long tradition of painters capturing the local landscape. In its 4th annual year the Easthampton Paint Out continues this tradition encouraging painters to pack up their studio and embrace the open air for inspiration. Hosted by the Nashawannuck Gallery, this annual event challenges painters en plein air for a week. In order to qualify, artists begin with blank canvases that are stamped by the Nashawannuck Gallery--they are then entrusted to paint within the Easthampton city limits.

The participating artists have chosen various locations around the city, embarking on both urban landscapes while others have selected the more rural Mount Tom skyline. Following the deadline for delivery of the paintings on Saturday, September 10 to the Nashawannuck gallery, the works will be judged and awarded a series of prizes including Best Watercolor and Best Oil Painting. Easthampton Savings Bank, a sponsor of the event will purchase two paintings from the participating artists.

Artist, Michael MacTavish, a four year veteran of the Easthampton Paint Out says, “There is an extra charge of excitement for me at the opening with many of the paintings just completed and still wet.” MacTavish has sold at least one painting each year during the Paint Out exhibition. A professional landscape painter, MacTavish sees the competition as more than just an experience for artists but also sees it as an exciting event for viewers. “It’s free entertainment for a passerby to view a painter trying to focus while being seduced by the ever changing light. Because of it, there are more images of our fair city interpreted by artists,” MacTavish says.

The Easthampton Paint Out exhibit begins at 5:00 p.m. on September 10, during Art Walk Easthampton and runs through September 24 at the Nashwannuck gallery located at 40 Cottage Street in Easthampton. This exhibit is free and open to the public.

John Martin, Landscape Architect and Professor Emeritus, Exhibits Paintings at Chamber

2011-09-06T13:48:00.001-04:00

Painting by John Martin

On September 13 - November 15, the Easthampton Chamber of Commerce gallery, an ECA+ gallery, will exhibit the works of John H. Martin. The Chamber gallery is located in the center of Easthampton at 33 Union Street and is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

John’s work consists of oil paintings influenced by landscapes and structures. His interest in his subject matter evolved when he began architectural rendering. After becoming a pupil for a local architect, his drawing ability transformed as he began to create professional quality architectural drawings. John describes his experience, “My eyes, attuned to the built world, allowed me to record my interpretations of buildings and landscapes in sketchbooks.”

John then enrolled at the Eastbourne School of Art in Sussex, England. Afterwards at the Eastbourne Technical Institute he learned the science of building and how to build. He became a Member of the Royal Institute of Architects at Brighton University, England and was introduced to the field of Landscape Architecture at London University. John received his Master’s Degree in Landscape Architecture from Harvard University in 1967 and continued his education at Cornell University where he studied Architecture, Landscape Architecture, City Planning, and Preservation Planning. Now retired, John earned the rank of Professor Emeritus from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, and plans to devote his time to his studying painting and photography.

Suzette Alsop Jones Exhibits “On the Wing” at the ECA+ Gallery

2011-08-24T19:55:00.006-04:00

Suzette Alsop Jones will exhibit “On the Wing” in the Easthampton City Arts+ gallery from September 9 through October 5, 2011. An artists’ reception will be held on Saturday, September 10, from 5:00-8:00 p.m. during Art Walk Easthampton.

Jones’ oil paintings exhibited in this show capture the energetic movements of birds. Colorfully painted, Jones enlarges her subject matter on the canvas exemplifying the beauty of the small animals. Wherever the artist traverses while looking for birds, she is lead deep into thickets carefully observing the local environment. Jones, who also paints landscapes and flowers, explains her interest in studying nature, “I see and hear fewer songbirds now, and I worry about disappearing habitats and toxic pesticides. Birds are small, and I somehow feel the need to paint them larger so people notice how beautiful they are and appreciate their important roles in our ecosystems before it is too late,” she says.

Suzette Alsop Jones received her BA in European History at Wheaton College in Norton, MA, and an MFA in printmaking and painting at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. She has taught visual art and art history at Putney School, Choate Rosemary Hall School, and Dana Hall School. Jones has exhibited extensively in galleries throughout New England including at the Paul Mellon Arts Center, the Nashawannuck Gallery, and ArtSpace.

The exhibit is free and open to the public. The ECA+ gallery is located at 43 Main Street, Easthampton, MA.

ECA+ Mural by Nancy Howard Smith Brings Sense of Place

2011-08-19T12:38:00.010-04:00

Easthampton City Arts+ is proud to announce the acceptance of a mural proposal by artist Nancy Howard Smith. Located at the corner of Union Street and Chapman Avenue on the building wall of Manchester True Value Hardware in Easthampton, the mural acquired its first color in late July. Onlookers can now see a shadowy mill skyline in the background with colorful daffodils in the foreground. Smith will put the finishing touches on the mural by the end of August and there will be a celebration of the mural's completion and symbolic unveiling on September 10, 2011, followed by the September Art Walk Easthampton.
A committee of artists and art enthusiasts selected Smith's mural proposal from a dozen of creative entries. Denise Riggs, co-facilitator of the ECA+ Coordinating Committee says, “The mural's design speaks to Easthampton's culture, building upon its history, and at the same time growing and revitalization.”

Holyoke artist Nancy Howard Smith has shown in numerous galleries in Easthampton and the surrounding area. Most recently she exhibited at Gallery 380 in Holyoke, the Oxbow Gallery in Northampton, and the Nashwannuck gallery in Easthampton where she was awarded “Best Watercolor” for the Nashwannuck Easthampton Paint out-a plein air painting competition. Her watercolors preface color and landscapes much influenced with her background in landscape architecture and painting. Smith holds a BFA from RISD and an MLA from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. She says, “From my perspective painting and landscape design continue to overlap in many ways. A sense of a specific place, and the unique character of a given community, interest me as a designer, event planner, and as an artist.”
Funded by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, Manchester True Value Hardware donated the highly visible mural location and Easthampton Savings Bank, Robinson Properties, and Big E's Supermarket made this project possible with their support.

Watch for updates of the mural on Facebook and twitter!

ArtHampton Registration Extended!

2011-08-11T15:28:00.006-04:00

Due to popular demand and interest in the ArtHampton, ECA+ is extending registration through August 17, 2011. ArtHampton is a city-wide studio tour day that will be held on October 1, 2011 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. All Greater Easthampton artists, performers, and craftspeople are invited to participate in this open studio presentation by having a sale, exhibition, or demonstration throughout the city. ECA+ will produce a full-color map, listing all participants and their locations that will be distributed to area arts venues, studios, and other prominent business locations.

To register, download a registration form and complete and send it to ECA+ at 43 Main Street, Easthampton, MA 01027 by August 17, 2011. Artists interested in showing outside of their studios can show in various locations throughout the city. To contact us for further information email info@easthamptoncityarts.com.

ECA+ Artist Exhibit at the Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce

2011-07-27T11:40:00.001-04:00

Aqua Amore: The Paintings of Marjorie Tauer
July 12 - September 13, 2011

Monday - Friday 8:30 am - 4:00 pm
Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce

33 Union Street • Easthampton, MA
info@easthamptonchamber.org

Aqua Amore: Love of water.

Marjorie Tauer is a landscape artist. Her love of water is evident in many of her lake, ocean marsh and local scenic paintings. Marjorie has directed the Lathrop Easthampton Gallery for 14 years. She paints with the Easthampton Art Guild and with the Old Deerfield Painting Group.

Click here for more information about the Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce

Meet Nick Martin, 2011 ECA+ Intern

2011-07-27T11:11:00.002-04:00

Photo by Denise M. Riggs, ECA+ Co-facilitator

I was born in Easthampton 21 years ago and have enjoyed the local arts from a very young age. I used to beg my parents to take me to museums and to sign me up for art camps and afterschool classes for drawing and pottery. Growing up, most of my friends looked forward to recess or the end of the day, but not me; I couldn’t wait for our weekly art class or any assignment involving a diorama, poster, or some sort of creative project. As I made my way to college, the focus of my art moved from two-dimensional paintings and drawings to more elaborate three-dimensional sculptures and figures. Though my interest in art stayed strong when I made it to college, I became interested in psychology as well. Currently I am going into my senior year at Wheaton College in Norton, MA where I am a psychology major which I hope to use, combined with my minor in studio arts, to get into the creative side of advertising and bring something new to the table. My interests in art, especially local artists, is what interested me in working with Easthampton City Arts and through working with them I’ve learned what goes into all of the arts events that go on in Easthampton. It is really great to be a part of something that directly impacts the community and offers opportunities for artists to express themselves freely.

New ECA+ Coordinator

2011-07-20T21:20:00.001-04:00

Easthampton City Arts+ is pleased to announce that Burns Maxey has accepted the position of Coordinator. Her first day is Monday, August 8. Prior to accepting this position Burns worked in the Office of Communications at Williston Academy. She is also a visual and conceptual artist whose work combines new and old technologies and media. Burns brings experience and a proven track record of success in community outreach, computer skills and social media which will be invaluable in meeting the ECA+ goals and objectives. Former Coordinator, Briana Taylor will work with Burns to insure a smooth transition. We feel that Burns will be an excellent match for the coordinator position and a strong asset to ECA+. Please join us in welcoming her to ECA+.

Art in the Orchard 2011

2011-07-16T17:07:00.000-04:00

Grand opening Saturday August 13th, 2-5PM

Art in the Orchard is an outdoor sculpture exhibit set on the bucolic grounds of Park Hill Orchard in Easthampton, MA. This unique exhibit will take place between Saturday August 13th and Sunday October 30th, 2011, and is the first edition of what will become a biennial public art event. 21 sculptures by 15 local and regional artists will be installed along a footpath meandering through this working farm set on a hillside with spectacular views of the Mt Tom range as backdrop. Art in the Orchard will be open daily and offer visitors a destination where they can enjoy the beauty of both Art and Nature.

For further information click here.

ECA+ has a new facebook Organization Page!

2011-07-14T10:07:00.003-04:00

If you are a member of ECA+, and have a facebook profile, please follow this link and "like" our organization.

Thank you!

ECA+ Coordinating Committee Swearing-in Ceremony

2011-07-14T09:38:00.004-04:00

On June 20th, 2011, the ECA+ Coordinating Committee and Cultural Council members were officially sworn in on the steps of Old Town Hall by City Clerk, Barbara LaBombard.

1st row, left to right: Erica Ann Flood (ECC & ECA+), Marcia Morrison (ECC & ECA+), Denise Riggs (ECA+ Co-facilitator),
Amy Davis (ECA+)
2nd row, left to right: Kristin Angel (ECA+ Co-facilitator & ECC Chair), Marlies Stoddard (ECA+ & ECC Treasurer), Carla Katz (ECA+ & ECC), Doris Madsen (ECA+ & ECC), Walter Clune (ECA+)
3rd row, left to right: Jean Pierre Pasche (ECA+), Pat Coon (ECA+) and Carol Abbe Smith (ECA+ & ECC Secretary)
Not pictured: Briana Taylor (ECA+ Coordinator), Stuart Beckley (City Planner, ECA+) and Nancy Young (ECA+)

ArtHampton 2011: Call to Artists

2011-07-07T19:20:00.009-04:00

Easthampton Art: Participate

ArtHampton Open Studio Tour Day: Saturday, October 1, 2011

ECA+ announces the Second Annual ArtHampton Open Studio Tour Day: October 1, 2011. We invite all Greater Easthampton artists, performers, and craftspeople to participate in this open studio presentation by having a sale, exhibition or demonstration at several locations throughout the city. We will produce a map, listing all participants and their locations.

ArtHampton Open Studio Tour Day is connected to our Buy Local Art Campaign. There is so much wonderful art to be purchased, seen, and enjoyed here in Greater Easthampton.

Who wants to be included?
Please contact us if you would like to participate in this one day event.

Here are the details:

One Day: Saturday, October 1, 2011

Time: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. (or times specified by participant - hours will be listed on the map/guide)

Deadline for participation, including listing on the map: August 5^th, 2011

Fee (this small participation fee will help to cover printing costs of the map)

$25 – text listing with location, hours & contact info.

$55 – text listing with small photo

$100 – large, prominent/highlighted listing w/small photo & web address

Please email or call us at info@easthamptoncityarts.com or (413) 527.8278 if you are interested in participating. ECA+ will promote the event and will provide maps and postcards for you to distribute to your mailing lists and friends.

ECA+ will be asking participants to invite at least two visitors to participate in a

survey. Surveys will be printed and handed out to participants along with a clipboard and pen.

A participant survey will be conducted

as well a couple of days after the event, via email. This information is

essential for future grant consideration from the

Massachusetts Cultural Council

Sarah Platanitis of Anselblue Design Studio set up her exhibit outside Easthampton's Old Town Hall (2010)

ECA+ Announces the 2011 Muralist!

2011-06-01T13:42:00.004-04:00

Nancy Howard, hailing from Holyoke, MA, will be painting a new mural in the City this summer. Starting in July, Nancy will be working to create a beautiful mural on the corner of Chapman Avenue and Union Street. The wall belongs to Manchester True Value & Just Ask Rental. ECA+ continues to enhance the cultural vitality and the visibility of the arts throughout the City and hopes to continue this into the future. Our generous sponsors make this possible: Thank you to Easthampton Savings Bank, Big E's Supermarket, and Robinson Properties for their continued support of this annual project. Other funding provided by the Massachusetts Cultural Council.

A detail from the 2010 ECA+ mural located on the corner of Pine & Cottage Streets, by local artist, Peggy Grose.
And the 2008 Mural on Cottage Street, complete by Northampton artist, Tom Pappalardo

ECA+ Call to Artists - 2011 Mural Project

2011-02-19T14:11:00.005-05:00

Easthampton City Arts+ (ECA+) invites artists and/or arts groups to submit a proposal for a mural to be created on the wall located on the corner of Union Street and Chapman Avenue (as photographed above). It is a wall belonging to Manchester’s True Value. Funds for the creation of this mural have been awarded ECA+ by the Massachusetts Cultural Council. Local businesses may also help support this project.

What
Design and produce a painted mural with a minimum size of 400 square feet (up to a maximum of 500 square feet) to be painted directly on the wall located on the corner of Union Street and Chapman Avenue, which is the bounding wall of Just Ask Rentals & Manchester’s True Value. The total wall measures 13' x 57', we would, of course, love to have as much of the wall covered as possible, so feel free to use as much of this space as you can! The design should leave a border of at least 1 foot all the way around. The cement wall will need to be cleaned and primed by the artist(s)/group prior to the execution of the mural. The mural, once painted, should be appropriately treated and/or sealed for outdoor longevity of a minimum of 10 years.

Content/Theme
The mural should be highly colorful and visible to pedestrians and traffic coming down Union Street heading toward Nashawannuck Pond. The theme of the mural is open. The artwork should enhance the building and surrounding environment as well as represent the artistic vitality of Easthampton.

Who
Individual artists, muralists, and art groups who live or work in the Pioneer Valley are encouraged to apply.

Ownership of Image
ECA+ will jointly own the copyright of the image along with the artist. Any representation of the image (poster, cards, etc.), ECA will request a percentage of sales to be given back to ECA+.

Payment
ECA+ will pay an artist commission of $3,000, which includes material costs. $500 of the commission for supplies will be paid once a contract is signed; the remainder will be paid upon completion of the mural.

Timeline
All proposals must be received by 5:00 PM on Thursday, May 5, 2011.
Notification of results of submissions on Friday, May 13, 2011.
Mural, including all sealing, is to be completed by Friday, September 6, with an unveiling planned for Saturday, September 10, during Art Walk.

How
Submit in one package to: Easthampton City Arts+, c/o Briana Taylor, 43 Main Street, Suite 2, Easthampton, MA 01027. (Faxed or email submissions will not be accepted.)
1. A color drawing to scale of your proposed imagery for the mural including text that details materials and weatherproofing that you will be using. Please do not put your name on the drawing.
2. Resume(s) and contact information (Artist groups: identify one project manager). Provide your name, address, telephone number, email address and website address if you have a website.
3. Examples of previous work: photos, high-quality color computer prints, or cd’s with images.
4. Background information about your art work and/or your group not included above.
5. One page proposal statement about your design (describe design elements) that includes research you may have done on the characteristics of the neighborhood or the city and any input you may have received from local groups or individuals.
6. Self-addressed stamped envelope for return of materials (or they will not be returned!).

Selection
Proposals will be reviewed and chosen by a Jury Committee consisting of members of the ECA+ Coordinating Committee, the owner of the building, and 2 other artists. The Jury Committee will consider each submission without knowing the name of the individual or group who made the submission.

ECA+ reserves the right to reject any proposal which, in its judgment, fails to meet the requirements of this Call to Artists or which is incomplete, conditional, or obscure; or which contains irregularities; or in which errors occur; or if determined to be in the best interest of ECA+ to do so. ECA+ reserves the right to waive minor discrepancies or permit a proposer to clarify such discrepancies and so conduct discussions with all qualified proposers in any manner necessary to serve the best interests of ECA+. ECA+ may wish to discuss with the artist some revision of the proposed mural before design selection occurs and/or before design is executed.
Artists will be required to enter into a contract with the City of Easthampton to ensure that the project is completed on schedule according to budget and according to the chosen proposal.

For more information about Easthampton City Arts+, see its website at www.easthamptoncityarts.com. For questions about this Call to Artists, email Briana Taylor, Coordinator for Easthampton City Arts+, at info@easthamptoncityarts.com.
Issued on February 19, 2011

ECA and Art Walk merge with the Easthampton Cultural Council to form ECA+, ECA+ also announces receipt of MCC Adams Grant

2011-02-10T11:07:00.001-05:00

Easthampton City Arts (ECA) reports that the Massachusetts Cultural Council (MCC) today announced the release of $765,500 to help revitalize communities and generate new economic activity through arts, science, and history projects across the state. MCC's Adams Arts Program for the Creative Economy will fund 24 projects in every region of Massachusetts, including ECA, which was awarded a $27,000 grant. The organization will have to successfully match a portion of these funds to meet grant requirements.

ECA and Art Walk announced today that they have merged with the Easthampton Cultural Council to create ECA+ . The newly created group will act as an umbrella organization to the separate Arts groups in order to create a more centrally organized and focused effort for all the groups involved. The decision to merge came after careful consideration over the past year. The City Council approved the proposed ordinance at a meeting on January 12, and ECA+ goes forward as a city committee.

The newly formed committee is looking for volunteers to fill out its membership, including co-chairs, and treasurer positions and asks that interested individuals living or working in Easthampton, Southampton, or Westhampton to contact the Coordinator at (413)527-8278, or at info@easthamptoncityarts.com.

Easthampton City Arts was formed in 2005, and is working to enhance the collaborative efforts of the artist and business communities to increase economic opportunities for artists. Best known for the 2009 Easthampton Bear Fest, ECA has a Directory and website dedicated to promoting artists and arts related businesses, sponsored the mural at the downtown public parking lot and also the new mural on Pine Street and holds an annual Celebrate the Arts event. Located at the Old Town Hall, 43 Main Street in Easthampton, it holds monthly exhibits in its gallery, and has a full time Coordinator available to answer questions.

Easthampton City Arts and the Easthampton Cultural Council hold the 5th Annual Celebrate the Arts Open House and Party

2010-11-30T10:29:00.003-05:00

EASTHAMPTON CITY ARTS HOLDS THE 5TH ANNUAL CELEBRATE THE ARTS OPEN HOUSE AND PARTY

Easthampton City Arts holds its 5th Annual Celebrate the Arts Open House and Party on Thursday, December 9, from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. at its location at Historic Town Hall, 43 Main Street, Easthampton, MA. Featured highlights will include the much anticipated release of the 2nd edition of the Easthampton City Arts Member Directory and the announcement of grant winners for the 2010 Easthampton Cultural Council grant awards.

The event is open to the public and includes a silent auction, which donates 30% of the funds raised, back to the artisans who contribute fine art pieces! Please join Easthampton City Arts and the Easthampton Cultural Council for an evening of music, great food, and silent auction fun. Items have been donated by the following so far:
Jean Pierre Pasche of Eastmont Custom Framing, James Ingram, Mt. Tom’s, Ellen Koteen, Ugone & Thomas, Marcia Morisson, Pat Coon, Denise Riggs, Kaleidoscope Pottery, Ron Parent , Marlene Rye, Lynn Latimer, Marcia Reed, Doris Madsen, Char Gentes, Marj Tauer, and Steve Robinson of Robinson Properties.

Thank you so much to those who have donated so far! Please consider donating an item to the auction! For further information, please contact Briana Taylor, Coordinator of Easthampton City Arts, at 413-527-8278 or at info@easthamptoncityarts.com, and visit our blog for further details at www.easthamptoncityarts.blogspot.com.

Easthampton Studio Tour Day

2010-10-05T11:33:00.004-04:00

What an incredible day! The Easthampton Studio Tour Day couldn't have fallen on a prettier fall day. The air was crisp and bright and lots and lots of people came out to see all of the artisans around the city. Over 350 people were counted at Old Town Hall during the day, with many people saying they were so happy to see an event like this going on in town. We were reminded of the Bear Fest with all the foot traffic. ECA counts the day as a huge success with over 50 participants getting involved. Here are some photos from the day, courtesy of Denise Riggs, ECA Co-Facilitator.

Piper Foreso shows her steel sculpture and jewelry at OTH
Laurie Goddard at her studio at Cottage Street Studios

Ellen Koteen discussing her photography with visitors

Michael MacTavish was demonstrating his fine skills throughout the day

Marci LaRoque set up her display outside the front entrace to One Cottage Street.

Peggy Grose was out front too

Zoe MA from Valley of the Doll displayed her really excellent jewelry out in front of Old Town Hall with seven other artisans

Briana Taylor gave quilting demonstrations on the steps of OTH

Marj Tauer was painting at Old Town Hall, and displayed her work in the foyer with the Easthamton Arts Appreciation Guild

Sarah Platanitis of Anselblue Design Studio set up her exhibit outside Old Town Hall

Illustrator, David White, was selling his new book "Mecha Zone 2"

Briana Taylor discusses quilting with a visitor to Old Town Hall

October 2, Easthampton Studio Tour Day

2010-09-14T10:45:00.006-04:00

On Saturday, October 2, 2010, Easthampton City Arts hosts the first annual Easthampton Studio Tour Day, in celebration of the national event, American Craft Week. Visual artists, crafts people, performers and musicians around the city will be opening their doors and spilling out on to the streets with demonstratons, performances and studio sales.
CSS = Cottage Street Studios
OTH = Old Town Hall, 43 Main Street
EWB = Eastworks Building
PAR = Paragon Building
STV = Street vending
Check back daily for additions to this list:
Participants:

Riverside Industries RESALE! Behind One Cottage Street in the back parking lot. Gently used items for sale.
Lathrop Communities, 100 Bassett Brook Dr., Easthampton: pastels, oils, sculpture
Boss/Brown Art, corner of Water St & Water Lane, Easthampton: clocks, robots, quilts, studio sale
Audrey Hyvonen, Hinky Pinky Studio, 62 Briggs Street: small quilts, wall quilts, quilted pillows, stitched cards.
Matt Evald Johnson, 138 Holyoke Street: Large-scale steel sculpture and functional art. Studio Sale.
Nonotuck Arts Emporium, 98 Union Street: fine crafters & more, offering items for sale and featuring demonstrations throughout the day. Enter to win a gift certificate!
Lauren Mills, EWB, Studio 246: Exhibiting sculpture, paintings & original art from children's books. Sculpting from life between 2-5 p.m.

Mountain Zendo & Healing Center, 186D Northampton St, Easthampton: chair Reiki sessions, chair massage, labyrinth walking, meditation instruction, yoga info.
New England Felting Supply, 84 Cottage St.: traditional felting & needlefelting, demos & sale
Maggie Nowinski, PAR, Studio 213: working studio and demonstrations
Marlene Rye, PAR, Studio 305: demonstrations, studio sale
Pioneer Valley Ballet, EWB, Suite 155: Dance performance rehearsals for this year's performance of the Nutcracker.
Eastworks, EWB: at the Marketplace entrance: Meet at the entrance of Eastworks at 12, 1, or 2 p.m. for an extensive tour of the building.
Strength for Life Health & Fitness Center, EWB, 10-3 p.m.: displaying artwork from artists in Eastworks. Body composition tests free to all visitors who request it
Sacred Spiral Healing Arts, EWB, Studio 218: painting exhibit & sale, healing arts open house
The Invisible Fountain, EWB, Studio 206: painting. Gallery and studio sale
Alan James Robinson, EWB Gallery 1st Floor: original watercolors on maps, charts and prints.
BMW Ironworks, EWB, Studio 56, west end basementHours Demonstrations at 10:30, 1pm, and 3pm, exhibiting wrought ironwork, studio sale
Carol Ostberg, EWB, Studio 234: hand painted furniture, demonstrations, studio sale
Riverside Arts, CSS: drawings, paintings, and heat press items (tshirts, baby items), sale
Ugone & Thomas, CSS, Studio 325: lighting, clocks, wall art, textiles, studio sale
Michael MacTavish, CSS: oil paintings, contemporary American Impressionism, studio sale
Ruth Sanderson, CSS: paintings, picture books, studio sale
Burns Maxey, CSS: performance and prints
Mary Ann LaDuke, CSS, Studio 431: paintings, prints, cards, studio sale
Peggy Grose, CSS, STV, outside front, or foyer: fine art & handpainted furniture
Levy-LaRocque, CSS, STV, outside front, or foyer: tile and wood home furnishings & accessories, sale
Elizabeth Solomon, CSS, Studio 408: paintings, prints, jewelry, stainless steel drinkware, cards, studio sale
Kaleidoscope Pottery, CSS, Studio 404: pottery, studio sale & demonstrations. Handbuilt stoneware w/real leaf impressions
Valley Women's Martial Arts, CSS, Studio 319: martial arts demos, self defence, poetry
Kate Childs, CSS, Studio 328: oil painting, demonstrations, studio sale
Ellen Koteen, CSS, Studio 320: fine photography, studio sale
Jill Lewis, CSS, Studio 508: photography, mix media works, studio sale
Barbara Johnson, Studio 507: Paintings, studio sale
Laurie Goddard, CSS, Studio 320: oil & encaustic paintings, studio sale
Amanda Quinby, CSS, Studio ___: studio tour, sale. Gilded objects, sculpture. Studio sale.
Latimer Glass Studio, CSS, Studio ___: studio tour, sale. Fused glass sculpture and glassware.
Gary Metras, OTH: writer, poetry, poetry readings, sale
Stargazer Studios, OTH: fiber arts~handmade accessories including handwoven bags, cotton aprons, and handcrafted jewelry
Anselblue Design Studio, OTH: simple, clever, and essential gifts for home, friends, and yourself. Street vending.
Easthampton Arts Appreciation Guild, OTH: paintings, demonstrations
Zoe MA of Valley of the Doll, OTH, STV: street vending, sale
David White Illustration, OTH, Display case in ECA Gallery. Books, prints. Sale.
Janie McCrae Morrison, OTH, STV: caricatures & portraits, outside
Piper Glass & Steel, OTH, Suite 2: sculpture & jewelry
Tina Peloquin of Tina's Travels, OTH, STV, outside front: photo greeting cards & photography, sale
Eastmont Custom Framing, OTH: demonstrations, picture framing, mat/wood/glass cutting
Briana Taylor, OTH: quilting demonstrations, sales
Marcia Reed, 1 Railroad St. Gallery: painting, pastels, monoprints, studio sale & tour
Silver Spoon Restaurant, 73 Main St.: Offering specials, open until 2 p.m.
Mt. Tom's Homemade Ice Cream and Candy Store, 34 Cottage St: Art Exhibit and sale, ice cream and candy sales.
Kevin Germain, musician, OTH: late afternoon performance, original solo compositions & improvisations for various stringed instruments.

Mural Unveiling - Sept. 11, 4:45 p.m.

2010-09-09T12:15:00.002-04:00

Mural Unveiling, Pine Street & Cottage Street, 4:45 p.m.Easthampton has a new mural! The mural, painted by Easthampton artist, Peggy Grose is located on the corner of Pine and Cottage Streets and is an amazing new addition to the public art scene happening here on our streets. Please come to the official 'unveiling' of the mural at 4:45 p.m. on Art Walk Day. Please join Mayor Mike and Peggy, along with many members of the Easthampton City Arts Coordinating Committee for cake and refreshments. We hope to see you there.

Mural sponsored by: Robinson Properties, Easthampton Savings Bank, Big E's Supermarket, Masschusetts Cultural Council, and Easthampton City Arts.

September Art Walk Easthampton

2010-09-08T11:29:00.004-04:00

Art meets Nature is the overall theme for this month’s Easthampton Artwalk, held this coming Saturday the 11th from 5 to 8PM. For the first time this artwalk will connect with other local communities - agriculture, small businesses, restaurants – linked together for a day by this common nature and earth friendly theme.

For example, The Nashawannuck Gallery will host its third Annual Paint Out, an outdoor painting competition; Easthampton City Arts will unveil the latest addition to the city’s murals, a colorful homage to local fauna and flora by Artist Peggy Grose; several artists will exhibit nature related work, among them the oil paintings of Frank Cressotti at the Elusie Gallery and Patricia Cooley at the Nonotuck Arts Emporium, the photography of Trace Meek at Mt. Tom’s Ice Cream and Danielle Federa at the ECA Gallery in the Old Town Hall. A “garden truck” will be parked on the front of that building for the day, creation of Mary Nelen in collaboration with the CSA Mountain View Farm on East St. This installation wants to be a symbol of the importance and growing vitality of local agriculture, and will also be one of links from the Easthampton Artwalk to Northampton: the Green St. Café, whose owners have created similar Garden Car installations, will have an Artwalk Special on their menu.

Several Easthampton eateries, including Venus on Main Street, will also feature artwalk specials. The Eastworks building on Pleasant Street will be host a number of venues, among which NFG Cycles, a custom bicycle frame and metalwork shop, Carol Ostberg and her “up-cycled” furniture and The Dam Art Show, an exhibit/installation tribute to the nearly 130-year old Upper Roberts Meadow Reservoir and Dam in Northampton; as well as a performance by singer song-writer Claire Dacey. Further down Pleasant Street, it will be Open House at Mill 180, the City’s latest addition of “recycled” mill buildings: visitors will be able to see some of the existing tenants’ workshops, among them Urban Power USA, inventors and manufacturers of wind turbines designed to be installed atop of buildings; and potential tenants will be able to check out the available space in this vast building next to the bike path. This is only a partial list and more events are before Saturday. For a complete listing and location of the various venues and for more information about events, please visit http://www.artwalkeasthampton.org/

October 2, Easthampton Studio Tour Day

2010-08-31T11:42:00.016-04:00

CSS = Cottage Street Studios
OTH = Old Town Hall, 43 Main Street
EWB = Eastworks Building
PAR = Paragon Building
STV = Street vending

Check back daily for additions to this list:

Participants:

Lathrop Communities, 100 Bassett Brook Dr., Easthampton: pastels, oils, sculpture
Boss/Brown Art, corner of Water St & Water Lane, Easthampton: clocks, robots, quilts, studio sale
Lauren Mills, EWB, Studio 246: Exhibiting sculpture, paintings & original art from children's books. Sculpting from life between 2-5 p.m.
Mountain Zendo & Healing Center, 186D Northampton St, Easthampton: chair Reiki sessions, chair massage, labyrinth walking, meditation instruction, yoga info.
New England Felting Supply, 84 Cottage St.: traditional felting & needlefelting, demos & sale
Maggie Nowinski, PAR, Studio 213: studio demonstrations
Marlene Rye, PAR, Studio 305: demonstrations, studio sale
Strength for Life Health & Fitness Center, EWB, 10-3 p.m.: displaying artwork from artists in Eastworks. Body composition tests free to all visitors who request it
Sacred Spiral Healing Arts, EWB, Studio 218: painting exhibit & sale, healing arts open house
The Invisible Fountain, EWB, Studio 206: painting. Gallery and studio sale
Alan James Robinson, EWB Gallery 1st Floor: original watercolors on maps, charts and prints.
BMW Ironworks, EWB, Studio 56, west end basementHours Demonstrations at 10:30, 1pm, and 3pm, exhibiting wrought ironwork, studio sale
Carol Ostberg, EWB, Studio 234: hand painted furniture, demonstrations, studio sale
Riverside Arts, CSS: drawings, paintings, and heat press items (tshirts, baby items), sale
Ugone & Thomas, CSS, Studio 325: lighting, clocks, wall art, textiles, studio sale
Michael MacTavish, CSS: oil paintings, contemporary American Impressionism, studio sale
Ruth Sanderson, CSS: paintings, picture books, studio sale
Burns Maxey, CSS: performance and prints
Mary Ann LaDuke, CSS, Studio 431: paintings, prints, cards, studio sale
Peggy Grose, CSS, STV, outside front, or foyer: fine art & handpainted furniture
Levy-LaRocque, CSS, STV, outside front, or foyer: tile and wood home furnishings & accessories, sale
Elizabeth Solomon, CSS, Studio 408: paintings, prints, jewelry, stainless steel drinkware, cards, studio sale
Kaleidoscope Pottery, CSS, Studio 404: pottery, studio sale & demonstrations. Handbuilt stoneware w/real leaf impressions
Valley Women's Martial Arts, CSS, Studio 319: martial arts demos, self defence, poetry
Kate Childs, CSS, Studio 328: oil painting, demonstrations, studio sale
Ellen Koteen, CSS, Studio 320: fine photography, studio sale
Jill Lewis, CSS, Studio 508: photography, mix media works, studio sale
Barbara Johnson, Studio 507: Paintings, studio sale
Laurie Goddard, CSS, Studio 320: oil & encaustic paintings, studio sale
Amanda Quinby, CSS, Studio ___: studio tour, sale
Gary Metras, OTH: writer, poetry, poetry readings, sale
Easthampton Arts Appreciation Guild, OTH: paintings, demonstrations
Zoe MA of Valley of the Doll, OTH, STV: street vending, sale
Janie McCrae Morrison, OTH, STV: caricatures & portraits, outside
Piper Glass & Steel, OTH, Suite 2: sculpture & jewelry
Tina Peloquin of Tina's Travels, OTH, STV, outside front: photo greeting cards & photography, sale
Eastmont Custom Framing, OTH: demonstrations, picture framing, mat/wood/glass cutting
Briana Taylor, OTH: quilting demonstrations, sales
Marcia Reed, 1 Railroad St. Gallery: painting, pastels, monoprints, studio sale & tour
Silver Spoon Restaurant, 73 Main St.: Offering specials, open until 2 p.m.
Mt. Tom's Homemade Ice Cream and Candy Store, 34 Cottage St: Art Exhibit and sale, ice cream and candy sales.
Kevin Germain, musician, OTH: late afternoon performance, original solo compositions & improvisations for various stringed instruments.

Burns Maxey's Project Elements Easthampton: Water

2010-07-22T11:59:00.005-04:00

Easthampton City Arts gallery features drawings, collages, photographs, objects, and sculptures about the waterways and history of Easthampton from Water: Project Elements Easthampton. This promises to be a surreal introduction into dreams, natural disasters, and creative minds that have influenced Easthampton in small and large ways. This exhibition is in conjunction with a multimedia installation being shown at 1 Cottage Street Rm. 1-06. Interdisciplinary artist Burns Maxey who lives and works in Easthampton and has exhibited nationally, created Project Elements Easthampton, a four-part site-specific endeavor about the city of Easthampton and how it relates to the four elements. This exhibit shows from July 10 – August 12 with a reception on Saturday, July 10th from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

This is the second installment of Project Elements Easthampton—a four-part multimedia work about Easthampton and its relationship to the elements: earth, water, air, and fire. In conjunction with an installation showing at 1 Cottage Street Room 1-06, the Easthampton City Arts gallery will feature video stills, objects, sculptures, and collages that relate to water and the installation. Included in this exhibition will be a horned head, the three books of dreams, and collages about the flood of 1955.

Easthampton Art: See It!

2010-06-23T16:02:00.003-04:00

Amercian Craft Week, October 1 - 10, 2010

After several local artisans approached ECA with interest in American Craft Week (ACW), we realized this was an opportunity not to be missed. Therefore, ECA is producing and promoting a citywide “Studio Tour.” We are calling all types of artists, performers, and craftspeople who want to participate by showing their studios at work, having a sale, or by being at Old Town Hall with a display of their work, or out on the streets of Easthampton, Southampton or Westhampton with a tent display. We will be producing a map listing all the participants and their locations.

We are also going to use this event as the kick-off for our developing Buy Local Art Campaign! This will be a great opportunity to launch this program and to show the community at large and visitors just how much wonderful art there is to be bought, seen, and enjoyed here in Greater Easthampton.

If you are stumped about how to participate, just give us a call for some great ideas.

Here are the details:

One Day: Saturday, October 2, 2010 Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

or whatever times that day work best for you; your hours will be listed on the map/guide.

Deadline to be listed on the map: Tuesday, August 31. Fee:

The small participation fee will help to cover printing costs of the map

$25 – text listing with location, hours & contact info.

$50 – text listing with small photo

$100 – Large, prominent/highlighted listing w/small photo & web address

Please email or call us (info@easthamptoncityarts.com or (413)527-8278) with your interest in participating. ECA will promote the event and will provide maps and postcards for you to distribute to your mailing lists and friends.

Help Create a "Buy Easthampton Art" Campaign

2010-04-15T14:29:00.002-04:00

Easthampton City Arts invites you to help determine the direction and look of a “Buy Easthampton Art” Campaign.

You Are Needed!!

Your creative ideas are needed

Your skills are needed

Thursday, April 22 at 6:00 p.m.

Old Town Hall

43 Main Street

The Buy Easthampton Art campaign will be a multi phased project that will enhance economic opportunities for our community. Buying anything produced locally has a sizeable economic benefit for our community. We want to use the success of other buy local projects and develop a Buy Easthampton Art campaign modeled after this success.

Bring your ideas, think about ways you might want to help, and be part of the creation and development of this important project. Refreshments will be served.

Please join us / open to the public
Thursday, April 22 at 6:00 p.m.

Old Town Hall

43 Main Street

ECA - Call to Artists/Muralists

2010-04-07T11:03:00.003-04:00

Easthampton City Arts invites artists and/or arts groups to submit a proposal for a mural to be created on the wall located on the corner of Pine and Cottage Streets (as photographed above) Funds for the creation of this mural have been awarded Easthampton City Arts by the Massachusetts Cultural Council. Local businesses may also help support this project.

What

Design and produce a painted mural with a minimum size of 400 square feet (up to a maximum of 500 square feet) to be painted directly on the wall located on the corner of Pine and Cottage Streets, which is the bounding wall of Western Nails. The design should leave a border of at least 1 foot from the window and all around, up to the vent pipe on the right hand side of the wall. The brick wall will need to be cleaned and primed by the artist(s)/group prior to the execution of the mural. The mural, once painted, should be appropriately treated and/or sealed for outdoor longevity of a minimum of 10 years.

Content/Theme

The mural should be highly colorful and visible to pedestrians and traffic coming down Cottage Street heading toward the mountain. The theme of the mural is open. The artwork should enhance the building and surrounding environment as well as represent the artistic vitality of Easthampton.

Who

Individual artists, muralists, and art groups who live or work in the Pioneer Valley are encouraged to apply.

Ownership of Image

Easthampton City Arts will jointly own the copyright of the image along with the artist.

Payment

Easthampton City Arts will pay an artist stipend of $3,000, which includes material costs. $500 of the stipend for supplies will be paid once a signed contract; the remainder will be paid upon completion of the mural.

Timeline

All proposals must be received by 5:00 PM on Friday, June 4, 2010. Notification of results of submissions on Friday, June 18, 2010. Mural, including all sealing, is to be completed by Friday, September 4, with an unveiling planned for Saturday, September 11, during Art Walk.

How

Submit in one package to: Easthampton City Arts, c/o Briana Taylor, 43 Main Street, Suite 4, Easthampton, MA 01027. (Faxed or email submissions will not be accepted.)

1. A color drawing to scale of your proposed imagery for the mural including text that details materials and weatherproofing that you will be using. Please do not put your name on the drawing.

2. Resume(s) and contact information (Artist groups: identify one project manager). Provide your name, address, telephone number, email address and website address if you have a website.

3. Examples of previous work: photos, high-quality color computer prints, or cd’s with images.

4. Background information about your art work and/or your group not included above.

5. One page proposal statement about your design (describe design elements) that includes research you may have done on the characteristics of the neighborhood or the city and any input you may have received from local groups or individuals.

6. Self-addressed stamped envelope for return of materials (or they will not be returned!).

Selection

Proposals will be reviewed and chosen by a Jury Committee consisting of members of the Easthampton City Arts Coordinating Committee, the owner of the building, and 2 other artists. The Jury Committee will consider each submission without knowing the name of the individual or group who made the submission.

Easthampton City Arts reserves the right to reject any proposal which, in its judgment, fails to meet the requirements of this Call to Artists or which is incomplete, conditional, or obscure; or which contains irregularities; or in which errors occur; or if determined to be in the best interest of Easthampton City Arts to do so. Easthampton City Arts reserves the right to waive minor discrepancies or permit a proposer to clarify such discrepancies and so conduct discussions with all qualified proposers in any manner necessary to serve the best interests of Easthampton City Arts. Easthampton City Arts may wish to discuss with the artist some revision of the proposed mural before design selection occurs and/or before design is executed.Artists will be required to enter into a contract with the City of Easthampton to ensure that the project is completed on schedule according to budget and according to the chosen proposal.Please note: There may be a few local qualified artists willing to assist in the painting process if requested by the artist.

For more information about Easthampton City Arts, see its website at http://www.easthamptoncityarts.com/. For questions about this Call to Artists, email Briana Taylor, Coordinator for Easthampton City Arts, at info@easthamptoncityarts.com.

Issued on April 6, 2010

Interview with Marty Klein

2010-03-11T14:40:00.005-05:00

Tell us about yourself:

I’ve lived in Easthampton for 10 years. Previously, Northampton, Sunderland, Leverett. Grew up in a suburb of Boston. Artist/blacksmith 1973-88. Masters degree in regional/environmental planning. ("I try to never let my schooling interfere with my education." Twain.) Active in open space/farmland protection in the Valley for a long time. Underemployed...looking for work. Served on Pascommuck Conservation Trust Board of Directors since 2000. Wild mushroom expert, naturalist, forager, many outdoors’ interests, tech skills. Lead nature walks, mushroom programs.

What first made you want to become an artist/photographer?

I’ve been an amateur nature photographer most of my life. In 2006, in the midst of a personal upheaval, I started exploring my current medium, scanography, as a new way to express my interests in the natural world, and my creativity. I’ve always enjoyed sharing my knowledge of the natural world. My art is one of the ways I can do that.

Can you describe your creative process, tell us something about how you do what you do?

I often work with fresh materials – plants, leaves, mushrooms, flowers, vegetables, etc. that have a limited ”shelf life.” When I find something (in nature, the farmer’s market, etc.) that both fascinates me and will fit on my scanner, I’ll bring it home and try composing it on the glass. Sometimes, the composition “works’, other times, not. I’m persistent, so if I don’t capture a subject to my satisfaction, I’ll keep trying, for years if necessary, until I do. I sometimes enjoy painting pixels late into the night, listening to music, ‘getting lost’ in the work. The zen of 1s and 0s.

What's new and exciting? Any upcoming shows?

Several upcoming and ongoing opportunities...Recently, the Vermont Artisan’s Gallery in Brattleboro added me as one of the artists they show; the Ferrin Gallery in Pittsfield exhibits my work there and at Canyon Ranch in Lenox; I’ll be exhibiting some prints at Bascom Lodge in N. Adams during their upcoming season; The Boston College of Architecture is using my work for the cover of their landscape architecture catalog, a poster and a banner; in August, I’ll have a show of my mushroom prints at Nashawannuck Gallery; I’ll have a couple of prints in a group show in Romania later this year; in discussion with the NY Botanical Garden about exhibiting there.

So with all that, how do you promote your work?

Online, via my site – martykleinart.com, morning-

On Morning-Earth.org, on Facebook and elsewhere. Always looking for opportunities, galleries/shows etc. that are a good fit for my work. Each day, I try to put some time into exploring promotion/marketing.

What Artists have been an influence or do you admire?

Karl Blossfeldt, Andy Goldsworthy, David Smith, Georgia O’Keefe, Calder, Picasso. My primary source of inspiration has been and will always be nature.

Name your top five books, movies, and musical groups.

Too many...here’s some...

Music is important to me... Wilco, Steve Earle, Ry Cooder, Los Lobos, The Clash, Kronos Quartet, Phillip Glass, Stones, Beatles, Bettye Levette, Miles, Ben Webster, Dylan, John Zorn, Richard Thompson, Van Morrison, Tom Waits, Springsteen, Bill Evans, Monk, Leonard Cohen, Debussy, The Pogues, Nickel Creek, Taj Mahal, Howlin' Wolf, Dexter Gordon, Coltrane, Eno, John Hiatt, Coleman Hawkins, Stan Getz, Allen Toussaint...

Movies too...

Brazil, The Singing Detective (original), The Princess Bride, Best in Show, Adaptation, The Fountain, Godzilla, To Kill A Mockingbird, Spirited Away, Cool Hand Luke, Dr. Strangelove, My Dinner w/Andre, Treasure of the Sierra Madre, 12 Monkeys, Godfather 1&2, Round Midnight, Mean Streets, Lolita, Blade Runner, Young Frankenstein, Rashomon...

Books...

Oryx and Crake, other Margaret Atwood, mushroom field guides, A River Runs Through It, T.C. Boyle, P. Mathiesson, The Stand, The Unbearable Lightness Of Being, Calder's Universe, Into the Wild/Thin Air, Blue Highways, Son of the Morning Star, Maus, A Bright and Shining Lie, A Sand County Almanac, The Left Hand of Darkness, Raymond Chandler, Phillip Dick, The Amazing Adventures Of Kavalier And Clay, Arctic Dreams...

What other interests do you have besides scanography?

Cooking, paddling, hiking, gardening, making people laugh, fishing, music, films, community volunteering.

Any advice for new and emerging artists/photographers?

Learn to ignore those negative inner voices/critics. Just make art! Talent only goes so far...it’s really about doing the work and putting in the time.

The MCC Gold Star Award Program

2010-03-05T11:58:00.009-05:00

The Massachusetts Cultural Council announced the recipients of this year's Gold Star Awards. The Gold Star Awards honor exemplary projects funded by Local Cultural Councils across the state, and the Easthampton Cultural Council had nominated Easthampton City Arts to receive an award for the Easthampton Bear Fest. Six awards were given in all, and ECA was honored with one. John Polak, and Briana Taylor, attended to accept the award on behalf of ECA. Marcia Morrison, from the Easthampton Cultural Council and an ECA Committee member, was there as well.

"The Bear Fest was a hit yesterday at the State House," Said Marcia. "Representative John Scibak told an assembled audience of Local Cultural Council representatives how important the bears were to the citizens of Easthampton and to the revitalization of Easthampton's artistic economy. Bear Fest souvenirs were a hot item, rapidly disappearing from the resource table at the back of the Hall of Flags at the State House."Rep. John Scibak, Briana Taylor, John Polak, and Marcia Morrison
This is the room where the MCC Program was held. There were over 100 communities represented in the room, many of which got to meet individually with their state reps. to discuss their needs and plans for the coming year. In all, there are over 2,400 volunteers that operate the Local Cultural Councils around the state, one of the largest networks of its kind in the country (according to Rep. John Keenan of Salem.The Hall of Flags is amazing. It carries the flags of all the cities and towns across the Commonwealth. The MCC presented a colorful cake to the group during a dessert reception held shortly after the award ceremonies.

John Scibak announcing Easthampton City Arts. And here he is with the award.

2010-02-16T12:00:00.002-05:00

Easthampton City Arts Receives Several Prestigious Awards

The Massachusetts Cultural Council Adams Arts Program for the Creative Economy Grant Award

The MCC's Adams Arts Program for the Creative Economy will invest in 27 projects in every region of Massachusetts, including Easthampton with a $27,000 grant to Easthampton City Arts, the Massachusetts Cultural Council announced on February 9, 2010. Adams is the oldest and most-far reaching program of its kind in the nation, supporting projects that harness the unique assets of the Commonwealth and the creativity of its residents. Adams grants fuel a creative sector that has a $4.2 billion total impact on the state’s economy and provides more than 109,000 jobs.

The MCC Gold Star Award

Easthampton City Arts (ECA) announced today that the Easthampton Bear Fest 2009 has been honored by the Massachusetts Cultural Council’s (MCC) Gold Star Award for excellence in community arts and culture.

The Gold Star Program annually recognizes model community arts, humanities and science projects funded by the 329 Local Cultural Councils (LCCs) across the state. These projects celebrate diversity, foster collaboration, showcase artistic excellence and provide learning experiences for people of all ages and backgrounds.

The Easthampton City Arts’ Bear Fest project is one of 6 programs throughout the state to earn a Gold Star designation. Funding from the Easthampton Cultural Council helped support the initiative.

Easthampton City Arts launched the 2009 Bear Fest on June 13, 2009, bringing thousands of visitors to the City. The Bear Fest, an exhibit of 35 life sized fiberglass bears, which were painted and decorated by local and regional artists, was displayed throughout the downtown area for four months. The festival was ended with a week long celebration of the arts throughout the city and a live auction of the bears to benefit art programs in Easthampton public schools, the Riverside Industries art program, the artists who painted the bears, and ECA for future programming. Over $64,000 was raised from the sale of the bears, and has been distributed amongst these groups.

“I’m thrilled to have helped the Bear Fest and ECA get the recognition it deserves from the Massachusetts Culture Council and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts”, says Marcia Morrison, member of the Easthampton Culture Council.

Gold Star awards are nominated by Local Cultural Councils and are evaluated by the Massachusetts Cultural Council based on a variety of criteria including: artistic quality, success in reaching out to underserved constituents, educational value, and ability to engage with the community.

The LCC Program is the largest volunteer-run, grassroots arts funding program in the nation, supporting thousands of community-based projects in the arts, humanities, and interpretive sciences annually.

About the Massachusetts Cultural Council
The Massachusetts Cultural Council promotes excellence, access, education and diversity in the arts, humanities and interpretive sciences, in order to improve the quality of life for all Massachusetts residents and contribute to the economic vitality of our communities.
The MCC is committed to building a central place for the arts, sciences and humanities in the everyday lives of communities across the Commonwealth. The Council pursues this mission through a combination of grant programs, partnerships, and services for nonprofit cultural organizations, schools, communities, and individual artists. The MCC receives an annual appropriation from the state Legislature and funds from the NEA, the Wallace Foundation, and other sources.

ECA Named Non-Profit of the Year by the Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce

ECA received the Non-Profit Organization of the Year 2009 from the Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce on December 17, 2009, at an awards ceremony during their Annual Holiday Dinner Dance. Held at the Log Cabin, the Chamber Board President, Susan Lapointe, presented the award with glowing praise. Other awards presented at the ceremony were Business Person of the Year, Mike Superson of Big E's Supermarket.

An Interview with Matt Johnson - Sculptor, Painter

2010-01-27T10:47:00.005-05:00

Tell us a bit about yourself.
Well, I stay busy mostly with family, art-making and teaching. I re-located to Easthampton about 5 years ago after 17 yrs in the NYC/NJ area. We are enjoying a far less duressed routine here yet still do frequent the city for its obvious enrichenings (not bothering with the obvious treacheries).

What first make you want to become an artist?
I cannot think of a time in my life that making stuff was not dominantly on my mind. But it didn't occur to me until well into college that it might be utilized as a vocation or method of sustenance and participation. My favorite thing about creating is the accessibility to a state of active or dynamic introspection (as opposed to an INactive introspection where only thoughts are getting manifested). An artist is permitted to visit episodes of pure self-determination through his process and engagement with his medium; he is permitted a unique and irregular detachment that yields rewards and furtherences - enhancers and fortifiers of consciousness - the nature of which I haven’t found in other areas of life.

Describe your creative process, how, materials, etc.
Predominantly I work in steel. So my processes and techniques involve fabrication, forging, assembling, blacksmithing, etc. Steel is a medium that requires aggressive interaction. It is a dirty, noisy, laborious, uncomfortable and quite often unpleasant brand of matter to tangle-with on a daily basis. So a personal relationship to the stuff as well as the tools and machines that get used must be established, nurtured, maintained...and quite frankly, endured. This is consistent with the notion that I suppose that Art should be difficult to do, so I be sure to make it such. The intensified and solitary activity is what drives the Art. The thing left at the end, the artifact, the sculpture, is a truthful reminder to me of that experience. So I let the work become the work...then recover, fuel-up and do it again as soon as I have the nerve.

What artists have been an influence or do you admire?
I love Michelangelo, Goya, Pollock, David Smith, Giacometti, Ivan Albright, Cadmus, Carravaggio, Rothko, Morris Louis, Serra, DiSuvero; and many others...me having arrived mentor-less, I wont claim any of them as influences but they all certainly inspire.

How do you promote your work?
My plan for the promotion of my work has always functioned by its expansive versatility or branching. I exhibit in all possible scenarios; galleries, museums, sculpture parks, universities, art fairs; I do site-specific proposals, as well as the application of my aesthetic within the functional areas of architecture and design...and I host an annual open studio.

Name your top five books, movies, musical groups.
My top 5 in anything is always changing.

Books:

The Stranger

The Hunger

Notes From the Underground

I am Legend

Journal of a Disappointed Man

Movies:

Music: presently

Bolt Thrower

What other interests do you have besides sculpture?
Besides Art and general sustenance, I play some music of my own (quite alone mostly...perfectly satisfied with my sluggish improvements), collect hot-sauce, record albums, I follow sports (I've become a Boston fan in all) and play chess.

Any advice for new and emerging artists?
As a teacher at various colleges and universities in my day I have been involved in the advising of future artists enough times and have always mostly encouraged them to pursue confidence through independence. Do what it takes to be in a position the make Art. Always have the goal of being able to execute your work regardless of the challenges life hands you (there will always be many). Go to grad school...talk a lot to people who might share your enthusiasms.

Parting thoughts?

Thank you for you attention and I'll be sure to let everyone know when I have things happening. The creative community and exchange between artists is almost as important as that solitary undertaking, almost as vital as the down-and-dirty of the studio work that we find so nourishing.. Thanks.

SWALLOWED: An Interview with Maggie Nowinski

2010-01-19T13:41:00.003-05:00

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I have lived in Easthampton Massachusetts for about 11 years and I can’t believe it’s been that long. I love Easthampton. I have an amazing, large studio, a wonderful family and I’m under three hours from New York City (very important!). I grew up in Long Island, NY, with a good amount of Storrs CT and a touch of San Francisco and then moved to Amherst when I was 14. Got a B.F.A. in painting in 1997, and M.F.A. in visual art in 2007. I make art using many mediums. I love vegetables. What first made you want to become an artist?

This is a difficult question, because there are so many factors. I don’t know that I ever set out to be an artist, it just happened and I pursued my interest in making visual art. At some point it became exciting and comfortable to identify as being an artist. I’d say that happened during undergraduate school. I do have to say, however, that the coffee table Van Gogh and Norman Rockwell books that my mother had around when I was a kid fascinated me and I looked through them all the time. I often think that was the beginning.

Describe your creative process, how, materials, etc.

My studio practice and process has evolved over the years and it isn’t a singular methodic practice. Most of the time there is a concept that I need to make work about, and from there the materials follow. I’ll use anything I myself can manipulate or learn to use – I need things to be accessible to my means. For example, with video – I needed to used time-based media for a project and so I learned the basic skills I needed to create the visual loop, which accompanied a whispered audio piece and multiple plaster casts of my mouth in mid sentence.

Other times, I’ll just get really into the materiality of something and I’ll play. My projects are generally installation based, with multiple components placed in relation to one another. They are always personal.

Sometimes I’ll just start with charcoal and paper. I also tend to need to make paintings here and there as a kind of complimentary part of my larger studio practice. Painting helps me get into my right brain, it gets me thinking visually and it’s really fun.

Overall my concerns are fairly formal, even if the work is conceptually heavy.

You've got a new show opening soon in Amherst. Can you tell us about the exhibit and how it came about?

There is really so much to say! How many pages do we have for this blog? I was having a kind of tumultuous, somewhat neurotic and maybe obsessive experience about the existence and notion of bottled water and wasteful water use. I had never made work that could be considered “topical”, or at least environmental and so I was wary when I started the project, but it took off with me.

I started photographing bottle water, with my cell phone, in their “natural” environments in order to ease my tendency to become fixated every time I saw a bottle of water. This was a relief for me. I was thinking about how unnatural natural disasters seemed and I started to relate natural disasters and bottled water. I started making drawings about this and collecting water bottles in order to make a giant tornado. Over the course of 2 ½ years, the project has grown and changed, culminating in an installation of thousands of water bottles, hundreds of photographs, drawings and multiple video and audio experiences. It’s at the Hampden Gallery at UMASS from January 19th to February 23rd – the opening reception is on Suday the 24th 2-5pm!
Are there other plans for the installation?

The installation will take a trip to the Boston Harbor, as it was accepted into a multi-part art exhibtion called HarborArts Boston. I’m hoping to show it elsewhere and there are a couple of interested college galleries.

What artists have been an influence or do you admire?

I have to keep this short because I could go on and on! In random order:
Mona Hatoum, Robert Rauschenberg, Pablo Picasso, Sharon Hayes, Cai Guo Xiang, Bruce Nauman, Paul Cezzane, PJ Harvey, Anne Hamilton, Huang Yong Ping, Paul McCarthy, Patti Smith, Nan Goldin, Felix Gonzalez-Torres, Willem DeKooning, Anish Kapoor, Christo and Jean-Claude, Alice Neel, Sophie Calle, and so many more!

Name your top five books, movies, musical groups.

I’m never good at these kinds of questions – narrowing it down to five or ten makes me nervous.

Here are five musical projects I really like and will always like: PJ Harvey, the Beatles, Charles Mingus, Mogwai, Spouse

Books! Also impossible: Siddhartha by Herman Hesse, The Wind-Up Bird Chronicles by Haruki Murikami, Nine Stories by J. D. Salinger, Feelings are Facts by Yvonne Rainer, Mythologies by Roland Barthes

The Black Stallion, Being John Malkovich, Koyanisquatsi, Sherman’s March, Roger and Me

Any advice for new artists?

I think it’s really important to spend a lot of time making work and trying new things. Be an artist all the time. Observe and recognize all of your ideas. Keep a sketch book or two or ten. Go see a lot of art in person. Talk about art. Notice your process.

2010-01-13T12:12:00.005-05:00

Easthampton City Arts needs you!
We Are Making Art Happen!

ECA is VERY active and we need the participation of the community at large; not just artists, but concerned citizens from every area of our community! Consider joining ECA as a member of the ECA Coordinating Committee. We are always looking for new members. Attend a meeting and see if it's for you, if after two meetings you wish to join, just let us know.

It’s a new year, get involved!

Coordinating Committee meetings are every two weeks on Thursdays, at 43 Main St (Old Town Hall), at 4 p.m.

Our next meeting is January 28 at 5 p.m., so please come and join us.

Easthampton City Arts
 strives to bring a spotlight to the Art and Artists living and working in Easthampton

 maintains a website that has over 170 artists & arts related businesses registered, each having their own page about them and their work, for free!

 participates in and supports the monthly Art Walk,
coordinate with Easthampton Cultural Council to make Old Town Hall a great stop on the Art Walk

 curates exhibits at both the ECA/ECC Gallery and the Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce.

 is developing an Artists’ Resource & Reference Library at Old Town Hall including the popular Portfolio Project

 The mission of ECA is to support and enhance the role of arts and culture in the life of the community in order to increase economic opportunities for artists and cultural establishments, while increasing the role that cultural activities play in the economic revitalization of Easthampton.
Making Art Happen!

email us at: info@easthamptoncityarts.com

Call us at: (413)527-8278

visit us at: http://www.easthamptoncityarts.com/

It’s a new year, get active, get involved!

Thank You to All!

2009-12-17T11:07:00.007-05:00

Thank you to everyone who came to the fourth annual ECA/ECC Celebration of the Arts Party and Open House. Our friend, Patrick Brough, has put together this fun video showing the highlights of the party! Enjoy!

Thank you to all who contributed to the silent auction! It was a lot of fun and a big success! THANK YOU!

Annual Party Shaping Up!

2009-11-28T13:57:00.015-05:00

The Annual Celebration of the Arts Party & Open House will be held on Thursday, December 10, 2009 from 6 - 8 p.m. Please join Easthampton City Arts and the Easthampton Cultural Council for a great evening. Catered by the Apollo Grill, and music by Zack Danziger

The Silent Auction will include the original drawings from the Bear Fest proposals, along with many beautiful works by members of ECA! Please join us.

The following have donated these amazing items!
Thank You for Your Donation!!

Big E Supermarket - Wine Basket
Janet Aalfs - Valley Women's Martial Arts gift certificates ($50 each)
Cherry Picked Books - $30 Gift Certificates toward Children & Young Adult Books
Eastmont Custom Framing - $100 Framing Gift Certificate
Karen Iglehart - Fine Art
Jim Ingram - Mt. Tom's Homemade Ice Cream - Candy Gift Basket
Anthony Jiggetts - painting
Suzette Alsop Jones - jewelry
Kaleidoscope Pottery - oval platter
Sharon Keene - jewelry
Marty Klein - fine art print
Ellen Koteen - Fine Art - Photography
Levy LaRocque - tile and wood lazy susan
Latimer Glass - fused glass piece
Michael MacTavish - framed print
Mantis Graphics & Anonymous - it's a surprise!
Burns Maxey - Fine Art
Trace Meek - Fine Art
Marcia Morrison - $50 Gift Certificate to Nashawannuck Gallery
Nashawannuck Gallery - Zellique Glass Vase
P.A.C.E. - Gift Certificate for two free tickets to any show
Piper Glass - jewelry
Marcia Reed - limited edition print
Denise Riggs - three framed photographs
Riverside Industries - items from art program
Heidi Robinson - Professional Home Organization Consultation ($200 value)
Steve Robinson, Robinson Properties - $100 Gift Cert to Spoletos
Marlene Rye - oil painting
Elizabeth Solomon - giclee print
Ugone & Thomas Company - Fine Art Lamp
Valley Art Supplies - Art Supplies
Valley Women's Martial Arts - two certificates for classes
David White - Illustrated Hot Wheels books
Paul Yandoli - Fine Art - Photography

Northeast Center for Youth & Families Ursa Dedication Ceremony

2009-11-20T11:05:00.011-05:00

On November 19th, 2009 Northeast Center for Youth & Families held a dedication ceremony for Ursa Geat Spirit by artist Marcia Reed. NCYF is proud to be able to place this beautiful bear on permanent dispaly, as a reflection of thier ongoing commitment to the Easthampton community and support for local arts programs.

2009 Annual Celebration of the Arts Party & Open House

2009-11-19T16:00:00.004-05:00

The Annual Celebration of the Arts Party & Open House will be held on Thursday, December 10, 2009 from 6 - 8 p.m. Please join Easthampton City Arts and the Easthampton Cultural Council for an evening of fun and food.

The Silent Auction will include the original drawings from the Bear Fest proposals, along with many beautiful works by members of ECA! Please join us.

ECA Call for Producers

2009-03-12T15:08:00.004-04:00

Easthampton City Arts
Call for Producers: Bear Fest 2009
Deadline for proposals: May 1, 2009

Ever wish to produce your own cultural event? Here’s your chance!

About the Call to Producers
Easthampton City Arts is looking for creative individuals to create, produce and manage cultural events that will take place from mid-June to mid-October. We seek producers who will develop cultural events/performances or public art initiatives around the Bear Fest theme (which can be broadly interpreted). Working with Easthampton City Arts and the Easthampton Cultural Council, producers will be responsible for selecting an event, lining up talent, creating a budget, planning and managing the event, and helping to promote the event. Themes can be broad or specific, ranging from dance and performance art to film and multimedia work. Events that reflect and include the downtown and mill areas are particularly encouraged. Easthampton City Arts has a total of $5,000 available and we are hoping to produce from four to eight events. ECA will assist in marketing your event. Deadline to receive proposals: May 1, 2009.

For those events/productions which generate a profit (after expenses paid), 20% of those profits are to be paid to Easthampton City Arts. ECA will then use these funds to produce additional cultural events.

About Bear Fest
Starting in June 2009, Easthampton City Arts will host a major public art event. The Easthampton Bear Fest will revolve around an exhibit of life sized adult & baby bears, which will be decorated and painted by local and regional artists and will be on exhibit from June through October 2009. In Mid-October, a City-wide, week-long (October 10 –17) celebration of the arts and auction of the Bears will take place.Events are planned to occur throughout the four months of the Easthampton Bear Fest. However, we are particularly interested in events before and after each of the five Art Walks (5:00-8:00 PM) occurring during the festival (June 13, July 11, August 8, Sept. 12, Oct. 10) and during the week-long celebration. Events which attract out-of-town tourists as well as those geared to Easthampton residents (such as a community-wide dance) are desired.There have been dozens of these displays throughout the United States and Europe, beginning in 1998 in Switzerland and followed by the Cow Parade in Chicago in 1999. Always wildly popular, ECA is expecting the Easthampton Bear Fest to draw crowds throughout the Summer and into the Fall.

When the Bear Fest opens in June of 2009, the bears will be displayed throughout the downtown area, within a walking tour. A “Bear Track” map will be available for visitors to track each bear location. We can only imagine where the bears will hide. Some on street corners, up on a rooftop, on the pond or hanging in the air. Imaginations will soar!

How to Apply:
Please provide the following information on no more than two pages:

1. Contact info: e-mail and snail mail addresses, phone, fax and Web site (if applicable)
2. Describe your theme and event.
3. List some or all of acts/talent you would like to include; describe talent and how it supports your theme.
4. Tell us what day and time frame would be ideal for your event.
5. Outline schedule for your event (which act goes on first, second, etc.).
6. List technical requirements (stage, sound, lighting, etc.).
7. Give budget: Break down how you would spend the grant monies; this may include a producer stipend, talent fees and other fees you foresee.
8. Easthampton affiliation (if any)
9. Please describe your experience in producing previous cultural events. Also, include support materials; i.e., photos, CDs, press clippings, resume(s), etc. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope if you would like your support materials returned to you.

About Easthampton City Arts
Easthampton City Arts is an initiative designed to support and enhance arts and culture in Easthampton in order to improve economic opportunities for artists and cultural establishments, while increasing the role that cultural activity plays in the vitality of the community. Easthampton artists and the City Planning and Community Development department created Easthampton City Arts in collaboration with numerous partners. Through funding from the Massachusetts Cultural Council’s John and Abigail Adams Program, the City of Easthampton, and business and institutional support, Easthampton City Arts cultivates and promotes the city’s diverse artist and business community. During 2009 Easthampton City Arts will continue outreach, marketing, and highlighting of Easthampton artists through its website, directory, and gallery AND will guide Easthampton’s largest public art display ever: the Easthampton Bear Fest. We hope that you will want to participate.

Mail or drop off proposals by May 1, 2009 to:
Easthampton City Arts
43 Main Street, Suite 4
Easthampton, MA 01027

Questions:Call 413-527-8278

info@easthamptoncityarts.com

Get Active, Get Involved! Join the ECA Coordinating Committee and Make Art Happen in Eastampton

2009-01-10T07:11:00.002-05:00

Easthampton City Arts needs you!
We Are Making Art Happen!

2009 is the year, the year of the Easthampton Bear Fest-help make it fabulous! ECA is VERY active and we need the participation of the community at large; not just artists, but concerned citizens from every area of our community!

It’s a new year, get involved!

Coordinating Committee meetings are every two weeks on Thursdays, at 43 Main St (Old Town Hall), 3 p.m. We are considering a 5 p.m. meeting time instead. Please let us know if you’d like to join, but a 5 p.m. meeting time is better for you.

Our next meeting is January 22 at 3 p.m., so please come and join us.

Easthampton City Arts
 strives to bring a spotlight to the Art and Artists living and working in Easthampton

 maintains a website that has over 150 artists & arts related businesses registered, each having their own page about them and their work, for free!

 participates in and supports the monthly Art Walk,
coordinate with Easthampton Cultural Council to make Old Town Hall a great stop on the Art Walk

 curates exhibits at both the ECA/ECC Gallery and the Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce.

 is developing an Artists’ Resource & Reference Library at Old Town Hall including the popular Portfolio Project

 The mission of ECA is to support and enhance the role of arts and culture in the life of the community in order to increase economic opportunities for artists and cultural establishments, while increasing the role that cultural activities play in the economic revitalization of Easthampton.
Making Art Happen!

In 2009, Easthampton City Arts will sponsor the Easthampton Bear Fest, a four month long outdoor public art event!! A weeklong Celebration of the Arts follows in October 2009. With your participation, we can ensure not only a week-long celebration of Easthampton, but also year-round cultural opportunities for everyone to enjoy!

Additional information about the Easthampton Bear Fest can be found at http://www.easthamptonbearfest.com/

email us at: info@easthamptoncityarts.com

Call us at: (413)527-8278

visit us at: http://www.easthamptoncityarts.com/

It’s a new year, get active, get involved!

Call to Artists - Easthampton Bear Fest

2009-01-07T07:51:00.008-05:00

Easthampton City Arts releases the Call to Artists for the Easthampton Bear Fest, Tuesday, January 6, 2009!

Easthampton, Massachusetts – Starting next summer and continuing through the fall of 2009, Easthampton will be the setting for a premier art event, Easthampton Bear Fest! From June through mid-October 2009, downtown Easthampton will host an exhibit of life sized, fiberglass bears that are creatively painted, decorated, and festooned by artisans from Easthampton and the region and placed in various public spaces within an easy walking tour. A total of 30 bears, 20 life-size and 10 smaller, will be displayed.

This is a call to you, area Artists, to let your imagination get the better of you and create an amazing work of art that will be seen by thousands of visitors who will come just to see your and your fellow artists’ creations. Imagine what you could do with a life sized sculpture of a bear!

Each bear will be sponsored by businesses and individuals, and will be auctioned off at the end of the Easthampton Bear Fest, to benefit Riverside Industries Art Program, Easthampton Public Schools Art Programs, the Artists who decorate them and Easthampton City Arts. Artists will be paid for their work, supplied with the bear sculpture, and have approximately three months to prepare their bear for display. The artists’ and sponsors’ names will be highly visible with their bear.

We anticipate many visitors interested in seeing and tracking the bears, including art lovers, kids and families, and unsuspecting people just traveling through. We will be publicizing this event far and wide in an effort to get the word out. Be part of this amazing public art event culminating in a Week Long Celebration of the Arts in October 2009 here in Easthampton, Massachusetts!

To receive the “Artist’s Information & Application Package” visit the EasthamptonBearFest.com website were you may download the package, or write to Easthampton Bear Fest, c/o Easthampton City Arts, 43 Main Street, Suite 4, Easthampton, MA 01027; call Briana Taylor at (413) 527-8278; or email info@easthamptoncityarts.com Businesses or individuals interested in sponsoring a bear may also use the same contact information listed above. The Easthampton Bear Fest is sponsored by Easthampton City Arts. For more information visit our websites at EasthamptonBearFest.com and EasthamptonCityArts.com

The deadline for application is February 18, 2009; participating artists will be selected in a juried competition and notified of the results no later than February 27th, 2009.

If you are submitting a proposal, please email ECA with your intention to do so and contact information so that we may add you to a proposal list; this is not required but will be helpful. Thanks for your interest and we look forward to seeing your ideas!

Exhibit Opportunities at ECA & the Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce

2009-01-02T13:22:00.005-05:00

Easthampton City Arts is looking to fill some exhibit space for the 2009 schedule at both the ECA/ECC Gallery and the Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce Gallery. Please contact us via email at info@easthamptoncityarts.com to apply!

Photo: Claire Metzner's watercolors at the Chamber Gallery

ECA's Annual Celebration of the Arts & Open House

2008-11-20T12:06:00.004-05:00

You are invited

Please click on poster for a larger image. Thank you.

EASTHAMPTON CITY ARTS LAUNCHES ONLINE SURVEYS TO GAUGE THE ECONOMIC BENEFITS OF THE ARTS

2008-11-07T13:58:00.006-05:00

Opinions of artists, patrons and business owners sought.

Easthampton City Arts (ECA) is inviting city residents, artists and business owners to take one of three on-line surveys to help assess the economic benefits of local artists and performers on Easthampton’s businesses . The survey deadline is Tuesday, November 25. Each survey takes about three minutes to complete and is completely anonymous.

If you are an Easthampton Artist take the ARTIST SURVEY

If you are an Easthampton Business take the BUSINESS SURVEY

If you are an Easthampton Resident or Visitor to Easthampton take the PATRON SURVEY

The surveys are part of public outreach efforts that ECA is conducting under a grant from the John and Abigail Adams Arts Program of the Massachusetts Cultural Council. ECA is collaborating with local businesses and artists to host the Easthampton Bear Fest, a major public arts event in 2009, and will host the Annual Celebration of the Arts Party on Thursday, December 4, from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. at the Old Town Hall, 43 Main Street, Easthampton.

Kathleen Dunn Jacobs Exhibits at the ECA & ECC Gallery

2008-11-05T10:09:00.002-05:00

Figures, Landscapes

New Paintings by Kathleen Dunn Jacobs

Opening Reception, Saturday, November 8, 5-8 p.m.

at the Old Town Hall, 43 Main Street, Easthampton

During the monthly Easthampton Art Walk

'My work is simply a visual response to what I observe and to what moves me in nature. When rendering a subject, a figure in a room, a tree in a field, or an orange on a table, my goal is to simplify, distill and keep my work fresh. I hope to acheive spontaneity of expression and capture some necessary minimal essence to which all viewers can relate.'

Kathleen Jacobs received a BFA in painting and art history from the University of Massachusetts. Her work has been exhibited throughout New England, and she is currently represented by the Kendall Gallery in Wellfleet, MA. She lives in Western MA.

Mary Ann's Dance and More Interview!

2008-10-29T16:26:00.006-04:00

The following interview is with our Arts Related Business friends, Mary Ann and Rick Hanlon of Mary Ann's Dance and More over on Cottage Street.

1. Hi Mary Ann and Rick! You've been in business on Cottage Street for 1 year now, and we are curious....how did you decide to open your shop in Easthampton?

Mary Ann works as the office manager for a local dance studio. As such, she listened to parents talk about how far they had to drive to purchase the apparel necessary for classes. In addition, ordering dance apparel, especially shoes, is very difficult over the internet. Years ago, there was a dance apparel store in Easthampton. So we saw a need that needed to be filled!

2. Can you tell us a little bit about how you became involved in the dancewear world?

I'd have to say, the same as above. Our daughter danced when she was little and has become involved in dance again as a teen. And I remember trying to find all those things needed when she was little; now it's easy!

3. Is there anything you'd like to tell us that we may not know about what you do there, or things you have to offer, like do you have adult sized dancewear, or anything else?

Mary Ann’s Dance and More is a retail outlet for dance apparel and supplies, fitness apparel, unique gift items and more for children and adults. We are also the only location offering customers the opportunity to purchase dance apparel and supplies and fitness apparel as well as experience free skin care consultations, color consultations and make-overs from a Certified Avon Beauty Advisor (Mary Ann). Our goal is to provide area dancers, studio owners (dance, yoga and fitness) a retail outlet with greater customer service by offering a variety of services. We offer: Community Bulletin Board, Cooperative Relationships With Studios, Dance Recital Advance Orders, Free Color Consultations, Free Gift Wrapping, Frequent Buyer Discount Card, Gift Certificates, Large Order Delivery, Special Orders, and Studio Nights.

4. What is your impression/perspective of the cultural vitality here in Easthampton?

Easthampton is certainly on the move. It is "up and becoming!" It's nice to see family owned/operated businesses opening up and thriving. And to be a part of that feels really good. Think Local...Shop Local!

5. Was that (a general impression of the cultural vitality of Easthampton) a deciding factor in your move here?

We've lived in Easthampton most of our lives so opening in Easthampton was always our focal point. We looked at other locations in town but we "fell into" the Cottage Street location (long story). And, they always say "location, location, location!" and being on Cottage Street is a great location with the "arts" all around us. So we are in a great spot!

6. Any other thoughts you'd like to share?

We are pleased to announce that they have created a section in their store devoted to gently used dance wear. The Dance Closet at Mary Ann’s Dance and More is the place to sell the too small & earn credit towards the purchase of new or gently used replacements! It is also the place to purchase quality used items at reasonable prices. We were looking for a way to help parents and dancers in these tough economic times. The Dance Closet at Mary Ann’s Dance and More is currently accepting all types of dance wear and shoes. Items must be in style (less than 2 years old), must be in almost new/gently used condition, freshly laundered and stain/wrinkle-free. Credits, in the form of a store credit voucher, are then issued toward the purchase of new or gently used items in the store. Value is determined on a case-by-case basis.

Mary Ann’s Dance and More welcomes all to visit their website – http://www.maryannsdanceandmore.com/ – or to visit the store for more information on The Dance Closet. Mary Ann’s Dance and More is here to help!

Stay tuned next month for an interview with Matt Johnson, Easthampton sulptor and painter extraordinaire!!

Easthampton Bear Fest is a GO!!

2008-10-09T12:16:00.003-04:00

Check out the latest! An article in the October 9 Summit.

Portfolio Project Party a huge success!

2008-10-08T10:28:00.006-04:00

The free pizza and beer were a hit, but the portfolios and artists took center stage!

Over 50 ECA members, both artists and arts related organizations, attended the Portfolio Project Artists' Book Appreciation Party, held on October 2. Artists' Portfolios were arriving at the Gallery right up until the end of the evening with a total of 30 collected by the end of the night! ECA will be collecting portfolios on an ongoing basis so please bring yours in if you haven't yet!

Chamber of Commerce Exhibit features Claire Metzner

2008-10-04T12:43:00.005-04:00

From October 1 to November 28
Stop by The Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce and see the work of Easthampton artist and ECA member, Claire Metzner. Claire is exhibiting a variety of landscapes and cityscapes in watercolor and charcoal or pencil drawings.

The Chamber is open daily, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tell them why you came!

Juli Kirk Exhibits New Work at ECA

2008-10-03T14:02:00.003-04:00

On Exhibit now at the Easthampton City Arts Gallery

JULI KIRK

CONVERSATIONS: An exhibit of new paintings

From October 2 through November 4

Opening Reception, Saturday, October 11, from 5-8 p.m.

During the Monthly Easthampton Art Walk

"These paintings are similar to dreams in that, they come mostly from the unconscious, and can be interpreted many ways. The one thread I have discovered is they all seem to be about people having a conversation either with themselves, another person in the picture, or another person out of the picture frame. They could be about being ultimately alone - or not. I’d be interested to hear different peoples’ reactions to the work." ~ Juli Kirk

Portfolio Project Appreciation Party, October 2, 5-7 p.m.

2008-10-02T09:55:00.003-04:00

TODAY!!! From 5 - 7 p.m. Please join us!

(Please note that the time has changed for this party to 5 - 7 p.m. due to the Vice Presidential Debate happening at 9 p.m.!)

Easthampton City Arts

Portfolio Project Book Appreciation Party

Thursday, October 2, 2008
From 5 - 7 p.m.
At Easthampton City Arts Gallery and
Office at the Old Town Hall.

Join us for pizza and beer and a casual night of
conversation with artists and check out their portfolios.
Bring a friend! You don't have to be an artist or a
member of ECA to appreciate the talent that is here in Easthampton!

Come and find out what other artists in Easthampton
are up to by checking out their portfolios and show off your own! If you are an ECA member and haven't turned in your Portfolio you can always bring it with you on the 2nd! This is an ongoing project and portfolios will continue to be, so it's not too late!

Grant Opportunities for 2009 from the Easthampton Cultural Council

2008-09-27T15:27:00.003-04:00

The Easthampton Cultural Council is pleased to announce grant opportunities for 2009. Information about the grants will be available at the Old Town Hall, 43 Main Street, Suite 4, and members of the ECC will be available to answer questions at the October 11 Art Walk from 5 - 8 p.m.

Applications are encouraged in fields which celebrate the unique collaborations which make Easthampton the thriving community that it is, and especially which address the theme: Easthampton: Out of Hibernation.

In 2009, Easthampton City Arts will be sponsoring a week-long Celebration of the Arts and a public art project, The Easthampton Bear Fest. With your participation, we can ensure not only a week-long celebration of Easthampton, but year-round cultural opportunities for the city's diverse citizens.

Famous People, Famous Places: Photographs of a Forgotten Times Square. By Bruce Barone

2008-09-11T11:36:00.003-04:00

Easthampton City Arts Gallery
The Old Town Hall, 43 Main Street, Easthampton, MA

The photographs in Bruce Barone’s exhibition/installation at Easthampton City Arts Gallery were taken in and around Times Square in the late 1970s and early 1980s.

Opening Saturday, September 13th (5—8)

Drawing inspiration from Walker Evan’s and James Agee’s seminal work, “Let Us Now Praise Men,” Barone pays homage to the people and places of Times Square, the “Famous People, Famous Places” that aren’t there anymore; suffusing street scenes with warmth and gentleness alongside social consciousness and history.

Barone, who has had three exhibitions during the past 12 months, ranging from natural landscapes to religious icons to family portraits, gives us the gift of his humanity in this new show.

It is about looking; looking with a heart and mind, finding beauty in the the ordinary life of a Times Square past. His arrersting black and white photographs take us into Times Square’s past and illuminates the lives of those people who worked there (from street musicians to the homeless), the places people visited (from bars to porno theatres).

Many of these photographs have never been seen before except in private collections and private exhibitions. A book will be published and available soon. Barone works as an editorial, wedding and portrait photographer.

An Interview with Rob Caswell of Sky Lake Studios

2008-08-29T10:28:00.008-04:00

Rob Caswell of Sky Lake Studios
116 Pleasant Street (Eastworks building) – Suite 118 (first floor, across from the Apollo Grill)
10am – 6pm, M-F
413.527.5350 (appointments encouraged)
http://www.skylakestudios.com/

Introducing our member, Rob Caswell, operator of Sky Lake Studios: a fine art giclee printer for photographers and artists.

Tell us a little about yourself and how you came to be at Sky Lake.

“A little”? For the sake of brevity I wish my path here were more direct, but I think my meandering actually brings more strength to the services I provide. I’m never sure what job will walk in the door next, so having a diverse graphics background to work from has been a real plus.

That said, I’ll give you the condensed version and hope it paints sufficient detail. I’ve had a passion for art and illustration as far back as I could pick up an object to marks on paper. Unfortunately I grew up during the Space Race, when most boys were taught – directly or implied – that art was not a profession and that math, science, and engineering were the only credible career paths. While my interest in art remained strong, I foolishly caved into the academic peer pressure.

When I was three quarters through my Astronomy/Physics degree at U.Mass. Amherst, it became obvious to me I’d made a mistake. I mean I was lousy at math, so what was I thinking?! My career since graduation consisted of trying to make that course correction back towards art and graphics, where my talents and passions always lay.

My professional pursuits have been varied, but art/design/creativity has been the common thread sewing it together. I’ve been a commercial interior design drafter, technical and fiction writer, publication layout artist, editor, illustrator (in both the physical and digital mediums), software instructor, comic book letterer, computer game designer, photo restorer, web designer, photographer, and photo retouch artist. So with this crazy blend under my belt, joining Shelley at Sky Lake seemed like a logical way to put those skills to use.

How long has Sky Lake Studios been in Easthampton?

Shelley Lake founded the studio in 2001. Shelley comes from a similarly diverse background, but she is stronger on the photo side, where my background leaned a bit more towards graphics and illustration. But we have a fair amount of overlap.

Shelley brought me on in 2005 so that she could spend more time with her photography, which you can see here: www.shelleylake.com. She’s now in Florida and is in the process of opening up a new branch of the studio in the Orlando area.
What do you do there? Can you tell us about the services available at Sky Lake for artists?

In a nutshell, we provide museum-quality fine art printing services for the art community. All our materials – inks and substrates – are archival and we offer print sizes up to 44” wide by 90” long. Many photographers and artists have their own desktop printers, but we provide the opportunity for people to print larger as well as the skills and equipment for those who don’t want to be bothered with investing their own time and knowledge in the process.

We can make prints from digital photo files or scan negatives. We also offer art reproduction for physical media – paintings and the like. We use a hi res digital camera to shoot the art, create a master file, and then massage that file in Photoshop to match the original. No matter how good a photo you take, it always takes some degree of nudging and tweaking in Photoshop to get a result that’s faithful to the original. It’s that part of the process that takes the most time and skill.

We print on a variety of inkjet substrates: various fine art papers, canvases, and vinyl. The beauty of the technology is that artists don’t need to print all at once. You can print as you go, thus saving the big up-front investment of making an edition on a press. Plus the whole process is more intimate, interactive, and accurate so the results better satisfy the artist’s expectations.

Is there anything unique about your studio and the services that you provide?

Hm. It’s hard to say for certain as I haven’t visited too many other giclee studios, but based on what we hear from customers I think we stand out in a couple of areas. One is our commitment to color quality. We pride ourselves about being as picky as the artist when it comes to color reproduction and we optimize the work for print, not just screen display. I guess it just comes from Shelley and I treating any customer’s art with the same attention to detail as we give our own. We don’t aim to create work that looks “pretty close”, we shoot for as spot on as the technology will allow – which is pretty darn accurate. It means the process often takes more time, but we view this as a “no compromise” area.

We also pride ourselves on being accessible to the artist – making the process fairly interactive. More often than not we’re sitting down with our customers to work on key adjustments during the proof process. This helps us gauge what the artist is after and assures that the print measures up to their expectations. So if an artist brings in a digital image you can help them "clean" up the image?

Minor clean is included as part our print prep routine. We can do more extensive work, like that needed with photo restoration. That work usually carries added cost just because of the time required. But every image in the door gets some degree of attention to prepare it to looks its best in print form.

You've seen a lot of artists come through with their work wanting prints made for resale. Do you have any advice for someone who has never done this before?

Well…hm. What first comes to mind is “keep your feet on the ground”. Many folks just getting into this think that once they’ve posted their prints for sale on the web, they’ll be flooded with orders. I’ve had more than a few artists calling me to say “I’ve just put up a Web promotion – get ready to be deluged!” I’ve yet to see a deluge materialize.

I think it’s just hard to sell your art on the web. First off your web image is often substantially sub-sized from the original so it makes it harder for the collector to gauge what they’re buying. The other is that it’s a really crowded marketplace. It’s not enough just to post your work, you’ve got to be as proactive as possible in marketing it. They key is to drive traffic to your site and present the work in as appealing a format as possible.

Even the artists I’ve worked with who aggressively promote their work have only what I’d call “moderate” sales. So just try to keep your expectations realistic and invest as much hands on promotion time as you can muster.

What do you like most about what you do?

I like the surprises. No two jobs are ever quite alike. There’s always new challenges. One day I might be neck deep in fine tuning the colors on an oil painting, the next I could be making prints by scanning images of Eleanor Roosevelt from 8mm film. It’s always something different and I love the variety and the personalities.

It’s also fun watching someone’s face when they see their work large and in print for the first time. That’s one of the moments that makes my successes tangible and it’s great to share in their excitement.

Do you do any art yourself, now?

Yeah… I spend my whole day in front of a monitor, then I go home and spend my evenings in front of a monitor. The past few years I’ve started playing with 3D illustration. It’s been fun to play and explore with the medium, but the best part is I can do it for me – no clients, no deadlines. Not sure where it’ll go and if it will eventually lead me back to commercial illustration, but for the time being I’m just having fun with it as a creative outlet.

Excellent Show at Cooley Dickinson

2008-08-01T10:38:00.005-04:00

Hello friends! Starting today through August 31, the Artists of Riverside Industries, Riverside Arts, show their work. Please join them and bring your friends to the Opening Reception on Thursday, August 7, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the New Gallery in Cooley Dickinson Hospital, Northampton!

Don't forget to stop by

2008-07-17T11:25:00.008-04:00

Trace Meek - exhibiting now through August 5. Gallery hours are Tuesday 1-5:30 p.m., Thursday 1-7:30 p.m., and Saturdays 11-4 p.m., or by appointment by calling (413)527-8278.

Trace Meek Exhibits at ECA Gallery

2008-07-08T14:35:00.004-04:00

Starting July 12 through August 5, Easthampton based artist, Trace Meek, will be exhibiting at the ECA Gallery.
Artist's reception, Saturday, July 12, from 5 - 8 p.m. coinciding with the Second Saturday Art Walk Easthampton. There is a lot to see and do at the Old Town Hall on the 12th. For starters, there is Trace's exhibit. Then, directly across the hall at the Elusie Gallery is artist, William Sieruta, who is showing some amazing collage work.

Music will abound at the Pulaski Park Gazebo, sponsored by the Easthampton Cultural Council, and The Carol Abbe Smith Ensemble will begin playing at 5:30! Bring a lawn chair and come relax.

If you aren't in to relaxing, you can check out hula hooping with Shenandoah's Alotta Hoopla Hoop! The hula hoop isn't just for children any more. Shenandoah brings hooping to people of all ages with hoops she designs. She'll delight people with her incredible hooping ability. Come join the fun and try a bit of hooping for yourself.

We hope to see you at the Old Town Hall this Saturday!

Charlies Angels...........What???

2008-07-02T09:46:00.003-04:00

Art work does not like direct sunlight! So in the interest of both conservation of the exhibits we curate here at the Gallery, and also the conservation of our much needed resources (by cooling the space naturally), we've installed new and beautiful vertical blinds in the ECA Gallery. A BIG Thanks to Denise Riggs and David Boyle who sweated through the complicated install and made the windows look beautiful!

Mural Ribbon Cutting Ceremony!

2008-06-21T12:43:00.014-04:00

What a great turnout to celebrate the completion of the City's newest mural! Over 55 people came from all over the City and further afield to participate with Mayor Michael Tautznik, artist, Tom Pappalardo, and the Easthampton City Arts Coordinating Committee to celebrate with a ribbon cutting.

(Mayor Michael Tautznik & Mural Artist, Tom Pappalardo in front of the mural)
(photo credits: John Polak)

Big E Grocery store made an amazing cake with a photo of the mural, and Mt. Tom's Homemade Ice Cream donated a tub of ice cream!

The mural, sponsored by The Williston Northampton School, Hampton Wholesale Auto, LLC, The Easthampton Cultural Council, and the Massachusetts Cultural Council, is located at 71-77 Cottage Street, on the public parking lot wall. The project was sponsored and organized by Easthampton City Arts.

(ECA Coordinating Committee from left to right: John Polak, Jean Pierre Pasche, Ellen Koteen, Jill Lewis, Elizabeth Solomon, Briana Taylor, Denise Riggs, Mural Artist-Tom Pappalardo (in back), and David Boyle (in front).

Denise Riggs presents a certificate of appreciation to, Chuck McCullagh, and Dr. Brian Wright, Headmasterof The Williston Northampton School for their sponsorship of the mural.

The Portfolio Project - Call to Easthampton Artists

2008-06-12T18:12:00.005-04:00

Easthampton City Arts is developing an Easthampton Artists Portfolio Reference Library and Resource Center, which will contain portfolio books of ECA members. To get your free binder and materials to create your Portfolio Book please either email at info@easthamptoncityarts.com or give a call at (413)527-8278 (UART).

Not an ECA member yet? Visit the ECA website to see the requirements and sign up!

NOW THE FUN PART!

We hope that these Portfolios won’t just contain your contact information, but that they will be a creative representation of the work that you do. Include an actual drawing or painting, make a collage of images of your furniture…think outside the box and make this an “artist’s book” that speaks for you! All we ask is that the binder can be closed reasonably and that you leave the spine empty.

ECA has sent a mass mailing out to an extensive list of Interior Designers, Galleries, and collectors from around New England and beyond and we will be using the reference library as a resource for them to peruse. This Portfolio will be just one more way to get your name and work in front of people who may be interested in seeing more and contacting you.

Information to include in your Portfolio:

► Contact information ► An artist’s statement

► Websites and Blog info ► Resume

► A biography or history ► Newspaper articles

► CD or DVD with images, videos, your music, etc.

► Images or examples of your work, whether it be writing, woodworking, fine craft, or fine art. Find some way to present your work in a creative, clear, and interesting way.

► Or anything else you feel is relevant and interesting about you and your work.

Again, get creative, have fun!

If you’d like to see sample portfolios (at least 40 to date!), please come to ECA Gallery and check them out!

Funds for the creation of the reference library have been awarded to Easthampton City Arts by the Massachusetts Cultural Council.

Kathleen Trestka exhibits "Threshold" at the ECA Gallery this month!

2008-06-12T13:43:00.003-04:00

From June 14 to July 8th.

Kathleen Trestka is an Easthampton-based artist who shows her work in museum, gallery, and juried exhibitions. Threshold is part of an ongoing series of mixed-media drawings that embody the primordial elements from various cultural perspectives around the world. It is the opening sequence for an in-progress five-year project culminating in a multi-media installation that attempts to bridge East and West, ancient and contemporary.

Opening Reception at Easthampton City Arts Gallery, 43 Main Street, Easthampton, MA, on Saturday, June 14, from 5 to 8 p.m.

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at the New Mural!

2008-06-04T14:04:00.003-04:00

Easthampton City Arts would like to invite the Greater Easthampton community and friends to a grand ribbon cutting ceremony in celebration of the completion of the new mural on Cottage Street. The mural, located at 71-77 Cottage Street on the brick wall facing the public parking lot, was completed on June 1, by Tom Pappalardo of Northampton, and was sponsored by The Williston Northampton School, Hampton Wholesale Auto, LLC, Easthampton Cultural Council and Massachusetts Cultural Council.

The ribbon cutting ceremony with Mayor Michael Tautznik, Tom Pappalardo, and the Easthampton City Arts Coordinating Committee will be on Friday, June 20, at 12:30 p.m. with light refreshments and cake. For further information please call (413)527-8278 (UART)

2008-06-02T13:05:00.008-04:00

<----------The beginnings!

The crew assisting: Matt Dube, Sturgis Cunningham, Barry Daggett, Nate Duval, Sarah Smith, Kendra McDade, Mark Reusch. And Casey and Dave from True Value were SUPER helpful with the whole project.

The sun was hot and the "snow" from the cottonwood trees was brutal!

<------with lots of teamwork, Tom's mural starts to take shape.

ALMOST DONE!!!

YAY....the mural, finished, except for a few minor touch up spots! Thanks, Tom, this is fantastic!

Mural Wall Gets Primed! Stay Tuned for Updates!

2008-05-21T08:23:00.006-04:00

Shown in photograph above from left to right: Stuart Beckley, Amy Davis (on scaffold), Jill Lewis, Ellen Koteen, Denise Riggs, Jean Pierre Pasche (with roller), Briana Taylor (on ladder), David Boyle (with roller)

Tom Pappalardo and Ellen Koteen discuss the priming while Denise Riggs paints in the background--------->

Bright and early on Saturday, May 17, the Easthampton City Arts Coordinating Committee converged on the Whiskerz building on Cottage Street to begin priming the wall for the upcoming mural. The mural, to be painted by Tom Pappalardo, of Standard Design in Northampton, is set to be started by Tom and his crew on the weekend of May 31/June 1. Various members of the Committee spread out around the City to gather the necessary tools to complete the priming project on Saturday which started at 8:00 a.m. on a fantastically sunny morning. Fleury Lumber for paint, Manchester True Value Just Ask Rental for scaffolding, and everyone's basement for drop cloths, paint brushes, extension poles, and rags. Quick work was made of the project and was completed and cleaned up by 1:30 in the afternoon. Tom Pappalardo and girlfriend, Sarah, stopped by to check out the set up and to see how the scaffolding worked out for the ECA crew.

Come by and check out Tom's progress on the 31st or June 1st! The official unveiling will be on June 20th! We'll post the time when we know it.

<-------David Boyle Power Rolls!

EHS Faculty & Staff Exhibit at ECA Gallery

2008-05-08T13:10:00.011-04:00

An adjunct exhibit of Easthampton High School Faculty and Staff and the Easthmapton Arts Appreciation Guild members will be in the Easthampton City Arts Gallery in Old Town Hall from May 10 to June 9, 2008.

This exhibit coincides with an Easthampton High School Student Exhibit at the Elusie Gallery, also at 43 Main Street.

The Opening Reception will be on Saturday, May 10 from 5 - 8 p.m. We will also have the pleasure of listening to the Easthampton High School Jazz Band during the Reception.

Image 'Life is Short' by Elizabeth Chase

Art Walk has a shuttle!!

2008-05-06T11:25:00.003-04:00

Park your car once, then ride the shuttle! And it's FREE.

Holyoke Community College will begin providing a free shuttle bus service during Art Walk Easthampton! The brightly colored "La Guagua" bus seats 20 people and is wheelchair accessible.

The initial service will have four stops: Eastworks, Blue Guitar Gallery, Old Town Hall and on Cottage Street near the dam. The bus will make a circuit every 30 minutes and be available between 5 and 7 PM.

Poster Contest reminder!

2008-04-29T16:58:00.004-04:00

Don't forget your entry into the Poster Design Competition!

Deadline is May 9th!

Project Intersect: Old Town Hall

2008-04-23T09:26:00.010-04:00

On Saturday, April 12, the steps of Old Town Hall, Easthampton were graced with the amazing collaborative work of Maggie Nowinski & JC Gray called Project Intersect: Old Town Hall. This site specific installation featured a multi-media presentation, both audio and video, that was projected directly onto the great stone steps leading to the entrance of the building. A crowd soon gathered and they were encouraged to participate by placing themselves directly in the projection by walking up and down the steps or sitting in the glow of the video.

While it's not the same as seeing it projected onto the steps in person, you can check out the video of the actual event on JC Grays website. Also don't miss the Valley Free Radio interview with Mo.

This is the first installation in a three part series and will be presented again at the Old Town Hall on May 10, 2008 sometime after 7 p.m., as soon as it is dark enough. There will also be a choreographed performance by Chivas Sandage whose statement follows:

"I propose to create a live performance that will interact with Maggie Nowinski & JC Gray's collaborative, site-specific multimedia installation. I see the video itself as being one "work," the video projected onto Town Hall's stairs as a second work & the performance as a third. A duet structure for two women will weave choreography with improvisation, creating this third work that acts on various levels—punctuation, as story within a story, anti-theater & the still life that breathes. The performance will integrate various strategies & concepts including: the body as monitor, games & game playing, & vignettes about found objects, accidents, weddings, chance encounters & symbiotic strangers."

Professor Chivas Sandage, Visiting Lecturer, Department of English, Westfield State College

ECA featured in Business West article

2008-04-19T11:36:00.005-04:00

Shown in photo, David Boyle, Briana Taylor, Ellen Koteen, and Jean Pierre Pasche, at the Easthampton City Arts Gallery at Old Town Hall in Easthampton

ECA has been featured in a Business West article about creating cultural economies and the hard work involved in the process. Jaclyn Stevenson from the magazine visited Easthampton and interviewed three members of the ECA Coordinating Committee and the newly appointed Coordinator. The article focuses on cultural activities in Pittsfield, Easthampton, and Indian Orchard to illustrate the importance that culture and art play in developing new economic drivers in Western Mass and across the Nation.

Ellen Koteen wins Committee Choice in Monson

2008-04-16T08:55:00.003-04:00

Several artists from Easthampton entered the Annual Monson Spring Art Exhibition called "The Dance of Texture, Light & Color". Turns out, it's a very competitive event, with over 100 artists arriving on "drop off" day to register their entries.

Six prizes were awarded during the juried exhibit and Easthampton's Ellen Koteen was awarded the Committee's Choice Award! Congratulations, Ellen, well done!
The exhibit will continue through April 27, 2008, at the House of Art in Monson.

Poster Design Competition

2008-04-08T16:47:00.009-04:00

Design a poster for a Call to Artists!

Image Credit: from the book titled New Masters of Poster Design: Poster Design for the Next Century" by John Foster

OPEN TO EVERYONE

Easthampton City Arts is developing an “Easthampton Artists Portfolio Reference Library” and resource center, which will contain portfolio books of ECA members and other materials of interest to artists, the community, and collectors of fine art and crafts.

The Call: To kick off this project and create a little excitement, we are looking for artists to design an interesting and eye catching poster that will be used to promote the Portfolio Project and invite ECA members to create an artist portfolio book. The posters may be in color or black and white.

Award: Winner will receive $100 cash, their name will appear on the poster to be displayed from May to the end of September 2008, and included in all press releases.

Deadline for entries is May 9, and the winner will be announced on May 16.

For a copy of the requirements and further details via email or snail mail please email info@easthamptoncityarts.com and one will be sent to you. If you'd like one by snail mail be sure to include your mailing address.

New Gallery Hours Announced!

2008-04-04T14:41:00.003-04:00

Come and visit the ECA Gallery.
Hours are:

Tuesdays 1-5:30 p.m.
Thursdays 1-7:30 p.m.
Saturdays** 11-4 p.m.

**Second Saturday Art Walk hours are 3-8 p.m. ONLY

New exhibits every month, including a fabulous display case featuring ceramics, sculpture and other interesting pieces!

April Art Walk at ECA/ECC Gallery Space

2008-03-24T17:21:00.011-04:00

Painting by --Denis Luzuriaga

There is so much going on at Old Town Hall during April Art Walk, April 12, from 5 p.m.to 8 p.m.:
--Music by Doug Hewitt and Friends

--A video installation performance by Maggie Nowinski at 7 p.m. on the front steps

--Marcia Reed showing her recent work at Elusie Gallery

--Denis Luzuriaga exhibits his acrylic paintings at ECA/ECC Gallery space along with friend and fellow artist, Matt Johnson, who will be showing several of his forged steel sculptures. WOW!!!

Sculpture byMatt Johnson

Free ECA Member Directory

2008-03-17T09:54:00.004-04:00

Easthampton City Arts now has available our free ECA member directory; a full color, 20 page listing of images and information on over 125 artists and arts related businesses.

To order your copy either email ECA at info@easthamptoncityarts.com or write to:

Easthampton City Arts
43 Main Street, Suite 4
Easthampton, MA 01027

Cultural Collaborations & Conversations, March 13th!!

2008-03-13T11:12:00.001-04:00

Easthampton City Arts & Easthampton Cultural Council invite you to attend

"Cultural Collaborations & Conversations" Take 3

TODAY, March 13 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

at Riverside Industries, One Cottage Street

Join us in conversation about:

* Easthampton City Arts progress and activities
* Easthampton Cultural Council progress
* News, progress, reports from others
* Overview of ECA two year grant "Week long celebration of the Arts" feedback and discussion
* Dissemination of Information -- Are we reaching you? Are you reaching us?
* "Created in Easthampton" stickers

ALL IDEAS WELCOMED

Coffee and Dessert will be served.

PLEASE let us know you are coming -- RSVP at 529-1438 or email at info@easthamptoncityarts.com. Thanks!!!

Call to Artists from our own Marlene Rye

2008-03-02T17:52:00.002-05:00

Easthampton Artists unite for local school! Our own Easthampton Artist, Marlene Rye, is busy working to bring artists together to make a difference.

Bridge Street School is in desperate need of a new lower playground which is over 40 years old and falling apart. Please come to a silent auction to benefit Bridge St. School! The auction will feature art work of local artists as well as donated items from local businesses. The auction is March 22nd. from 7-10pm at the Northampton Center for the Arts. There will be live music, food and drinks at the event. Tickets are $15.

If you would like tickets for the event contact Marlene at mrye@MarleneRye.com

If you are an artist and would like to donate work please contact Marlene Rye and mrye@MarleneRye.com. So far we have, Briana Taylor, Marlene Rye, Martha Armstrong, and Kate Childs.

Thank you!

Name the Space Contest and Win!!!

2008-02-28T15:13:00.004-05:00

As you all know, The Easthampton Cultural Council and Easthampton City Arts now share a gallery and office at The Old Town Hall, 43 Main Street. We are looking for a name and we know you will all have some great ideas.

Submit an official name for the office/gallery space and you could win a $50 gift certificate to Nashawannuck Gallery!

How to submit:
● at ArtWalk (March 8 & April 12) or during office hours
● at Cultural Conversations (March 13, Riverside Industries)
● at Chamber Business Card exchanges
● at Nashawannuck Gallery

The deadline for all entries is Saturday, April 19.

Art As Witness -- Elusie Gallery

2008-02-23T13:25:00.002-05:00

The Easthampton City Arts/Easthampton Cultural Council gallery space will be open this evening, Saturday, February 23, during the Elusie Gallery's Opening for their
2nd Annual Juried Exhibit Fundraiser of the Eastmont Art Fund.

Art As Witness: capturing community values, is a juried fundraising exhibit featuring original work by 26 Pioneer Valley Artists. Proceeds will benefit the 2008 Family Gathering, a cultural program of the Rosenberg Fund for Children.

Reception and Jury results: Saturday, February 23, 5 - 8 p.m. with catering provided by Amanouz Cafe'.

Also come to "Gathering Community Voices" on Thursday, March 6, 6-8 p.m. for a poetry ready by Martin Espada and music by Jose' Ayerve.

Alberto Mancini Exhibits at Easthampton City Arts

2008-02-16T12:02:00.008-05:00

February 9 to March 3, 2008.
Now called "artSpace", The Easthampton City Arts/Easthampton Cultural Council's shared office/gallery exhibits Alberto Mancini's fabulous paintings.
Also on display this month is a selection of work by Kristin Sherlaw. Come by and check out these two amazing Easthampton talents.

James D. Ingram exhibit at the Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce Gallery

2008-01-29T12:24:00.001-05:00

Photographer, James D. Ingram, shows his work in an exhibit at the Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce on Union Street. Curated by Easthampton City Arts in collaboration with the Chamber, you can see Jim's photographs of local Easthampton interest from January 22 to March 8, 2008.

The Chamber is open Monday through Friday 8:30am to 4:00pm

ECA Mural Call to Artists

2008-01-29T10:36:00.000-05:00

The selection of the winning entry for the Easthampton City Arts mural Call to Artists has generated much discussion during the last week. See Tom Pappalardo's website to see mock up drawings and an article from the Daily Hampshire Gazette. The Easthampton City Arts Coordinating Committee affirms the jury and the building owner's selection and believes this mural is a great initial design for an on-going public arts initiative.

We would like to take this opportunity to expand our dialogue with the community about how to increase the dissemination of information such as the call to artists for the mural contest, and other events like the ongoing Cultural Conversations meetings. Easthampton City Arts posts information on its website, and the ECA Blog which you are reading now. Also, you may find "Calls to Artists" and other art events listed on the Arts Experiment Newsletter by signing up at http://www.artwalkeasthampton.org/cgi-bin/dada/mail.cgi/list/artnews. ECA makes every effort to distribute news and events to the greater Easthampton Community by listing such calls in The Daily Hampshire Gazette, The Summit, The Republican, the Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce's website calendar, the Local Buzz, and now The Valley Advocate. If there are other ideas or suggestions, please feel free to post them in a comment on the blog, or by writing to info@easthamptoncityarts.com.

Also, please attend our public forum meeting, "Cultural Conversations: Take 3" coming this March 13, at Riverside Industries building from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. This meeting will be our third open community discussion about Easthampton's cultural economic agenda for the next year.

Use the ECA Calendar of Events!

2007-12-29T13:31:00.000-05:00

Hi All -
Don't forget about the Easthampton City Arts Calendar which is full of great Art events that are happening in our City. It's not just a great source of information, if you are a member of Easthampton City Arts, you may post your Art Events on the Calendar too, for everyone to see. Check it out!

Annie Steiner exhibit - January 12 to February 4

2007-12-27T14:52:00.001-05:00

Annie Steiner will be exhibiting pastels and oil paintings at the Easthampton City Arts Office/Gallery Space. An Artist's Reception will be on Saturday, January 12, from 5 - 8 p.m. during the monthly Art Walk Easthampton. Come by and see what's going on!

THANK YOU ALL!!!

2007-12-11T13:18:00.000-05:00

A very big "THANK YOU" to everyone who participated in the 2007 Annual Celebration of the Arts & Open House last Thursday. It was a fantastic success thanks to the efforts of many, many people. We'd like to thank especially:

Massachusetts Cultural Council
Easthampton Savings Bank
Florence Savings Bank
The Williston Northampton School
The Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce
The Apollo Grill!!!! Cheers!!! Great Food and beverages!
Jean-Pierre Pasche of Eastmont Custom Framing for time, effort, framing & lots of other stuff!
Jill Lewis, for the amazing flowers and time
Carol Abbee Smith & friends for the fantastic musical evening
The members of Easthampton City Arts & Easthampton Cultural Council
Marlene Rye
Kaleidescope Pottery
Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art
Lynn Latimer of Latimer Glass
Greg from Promark Graphics
Michael MacTavish
Janna Ugone
Bruce Barone
Marjorie Tauer
Doris Madsen
Denise Riggs
Valley Art Supplies
Mt. Tom's Homemade Ice Cream & Candy Store
P.A.C.E.
La Vada Bath & Body Boutique
Sky Lake Studios
Ellen Koteen
Turn It Up!
Onalie Arts
Toddles Boutique
Country Accents
Briana Taylor
Robert Natario
The Majestic Theater
The Lift
Now & Zen artNDesign
Valerie Hood
Elizabeth Solomon

AND everyone else who volunteered, decorated, emailed and planned this event! Thank you!

2007 Annual Celebration of the Arts & Open House Update!

2007-11-27T07:37:00.000-05:00

An exciting update on the 2007 Annual Celebration of the Arts & Open House, next Thursday, December 6th, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Here is a list of the folks who have donated an item to the Silent Auction/Raffle!!! More are being added each day. Please join us in thanking them for their generosity and come and bid on some amazing fine art and prizes on the 6th!!!

Valley Art Supplies..............Bruce Barone..............Kaleidescope Pottery
Doris Madsen.....................Valerie Hood...................P.A.C.E.
Mt. Tom's Homemade Ice Cream.....Eric Carle Museum.........Marlene Rye
Lynn Latimer.....................Eastmont Custom Framing...Briana Taylor
La Vada Bath & Body..............Turn It Up!...............Onalie Arts
Toddles Boutique.................Country Accents...........Denise Riggs

Annual Celebration of the Arts and Open House

2007-11-14T17:01:00.000-05:00

You are invited to
the Annual Celebration of the Arts and Open House
Thursday, December 6, 6:30–8:30pm
Easthampton City Arts
at Historic Town Hall, 43 Main Street

Refreshments ~ Music ~ Raffle

Please join us for an evening of entertainment, food, and fine art at the
Annual Celebration of the Arts, co-sponsored by Easthampton City Arts and
the Easthampton Cultural Council. Come learn what we have accomplished and what is being planned for the coming year.

RSVPs appreciated, 529-1406

This celebration is presented free of charge,
thanks to the generosity of our Sponsors:

The Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce
Easthampton Savings Bank
Florence Savings Bank
The Williston Northampton School

Art Walk Easthampton - November 10, 2007, 5 - 8 p.m.

2007-11-07T09:34:00.000-05:00

Come and join us at the very first event to be held in our new Offices at the Historic Town Hall! ECA is participating in it's first Art Walk and is featuring artist, Marlene Rye. You can read an interview with Marlene below. Light snacks and beverages will be served.

Musical artist, Brandee Simone will also be performing during the Art Walk. She will have her new CD available for sale. Come and check out the new space and these fantastic artists!

We hope to see you there.

Interview with Trace Meek: Artist, Web Designer, Musician, Hockey Player

2007-10-19T12:53:00.001-04:00

Our roving reporter met with Trace Meek to talk about the intricacies of being an artist and living a balanced life. Trace can be found most early mornings, before most of us rise, quietly working and enjoying his studio at One Cottage Street.

1. Why are you an artist, Trace?

In the words of our inimitable local hero, Dr. Seuss, "I Am The Lorax, I Speak for the Trees".

For me, art is more spiritual practice than career. I love the process of distilling experiences into cogent visual statements (or questions). Part of this is purely aesthetic; appreciating form, color and proportion. Another part of it is concerned with meaning (or magic); asking big questions like, "Why are we here?" and "Can we heal ourselves?"

2. Did you know you wanted to be an artist when you were a child, did your family encourage you?

I knew that I did what I did, but I didn't know it was called "being an artist." I was always drawing as a kid. In school I would fill the margins of my notebooks with drawings of planes, motorcycles, buildings, boats, trains, tanks, trucks, etc., and later logos like sports team logos and automobile brand logos. I was very interested in structure, and how things worked. Without knowing it, I was studying engineering, graphic design and art, all in one!

I don't remember my family ever getting involved or invested in my "figuring out what I wanted to be when I grew up," but they were generally supportive of whatever I was interested in at a given time. My dad is an architect and my mom an artist/crafter, so how could they have objected?

For some reason though, in high school I started to focus more on the left-brain stuff. I was really good at chemistry, physics, algebra, geometry, calculus, French, etc., and so I ended up going to Georgia Tech to pursue what I thought would be a career in electrical engineering. It wasn't until much later that the boomerang came back, and I ended up with a BFA Degree in Painting from UMass Amherst instead! Now I work in web design, which seems like a good compromise between those interests and competencies.

3. Could you tell us something about your paintings?

I don't make enough of them! I generally work at a scale that is just slightly bigger than is convenient to transport. I want to teach myself to work on a smaller scale so that the prospect of beginning (and finishing) a painting is not so intimidating. I often start painting in acrylic and end in oil.

I'm very conscious of my use of color, and have a theory of color relativity that I try to abide by in my work. It's basically that one's subjective perception of a color has everything to do with the other colors that surround it. I guarantee you that I could open a tube of Naples Yellow oil paint and use it in a way that would cause you to perceive it as lavender.

4. What artists have been an influence or do you admire?

The usual suspects: Matisse, Picasso, Van Gogh, Gustav Klimt, Cézanne, Modigliani.

I also like The children's book author-illustrators Maurice Sendak, Dr. Seuss, David Wiesner and Chris Van Allsburg; the sculptor Deborah Butterfield; and the poets Mary Oliver, David Berman and Wendell Berry.

I'm also deeply influenced by a lot of creative people who are (or who have been) a real part of my life: Maggie Nowinski, Sally Curcio, Briana Taylor, Richard Yarde, Jim StipeMaas, Janna Ugone,Carol Struve, James Tate, Thane Thomsen, Matthew Zapruder, Brian Marchese. The list goes on and on.

5. What inspires you to paint and how do you keep motivated when things get tough in the studio?

I'm probably not the best person to answer this question; I can be sort of a binge painter. I'll go months without actually putting a brush to canvas, and then a deadline will emerge (such as a show date or a mural) and I'll crank out a substantial body of work in two or three months.

To wit, working creates its own inspiration. I'd like to be able to say something profound-sounding like "I can't NOT be a painter." But I'm not sure I believe that. If I were no longer motivated to express in this way, I would stop painting and would no longer be a painter! (I have almost gone this route on a few occasions.) And that would be OK. But I'd have to find some other creative outlet, like film making or photography or graphic design (some of which I do already) or invention. Painting is hard work and takes a lot of faith. It is essentially about confident decision-making in realms where no known right answers exist.

6. What other interests do you have (besides painting)?

I play ice hockey. I like walking, and the great outdoors, especially in the fall. I play bass in a band called the Figments. I love the web and web design, and I've invested a lot of energy over the past few years becoming somewhat of an expert in semantic XHTML and CSS. I look forward to the day when these skills are as valued as the flashier aspects of web design. I like a lot of alone time.

7. So what would be an ideal day for you?

I have too many interests to fit into one day, but a good day might start at 5 AM (when the world is quiet) and proceed as follows: jogging three miles, drinking good coffee, going to the studio, painting, tinkering, web designing, reading design-related blogs, breaking for lunch, going back to the studio, breaking for ice skating, meeting a friend for coffee, going back to the studio, having dinner at a good restaurant, going back to the studio (do you detect a theme?), going out for some live music, having a relaxing sauna, and retiring by 9 PM. Rinse and repeat. If anyone actually knows a way to fit all of that into one day I'd love to know the secret.

8. Any parting thoughts you'd like to share?

Sorry to invoke a cliché here, but I mean it: "Do what you love and love what you do."

Save the Date -- December 6, 2007!!!

2007-10-15T09:10:00.000-04:00

Easthampton City Arts Members & Friends,

Save the date for our Annual Arts Celebration and Open House!

Thursday, December 6, 2007
6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Historic Town Hall
Join us in celebrating the Arts in Easthampton and the opening of our new office.

Music!-----------------Art!----------------------Entertainment!-------------------Food!

Hosted by Easthampton City Arts and Easthampton Cultural Council.

Come and see the new Easthampton City Arts and Easthampton Cultural Council office at the Historic Town Hall and find out about exciting plans for the near future. Take a chance on a fun raffle, or an amazing fine art silent auction featuring many original pieces of art from ECA members.

A portion of the proceeds from the silent auction will go to the donating artists!

This party is presented free of charge thanks to the generosity of our Sponsors:

**Easthampton Savings Bank** **Florence Savings Bank**

**The Williston Northampton School**

**The Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce**

If you would like to contribute to the silent auction or raffle please contact Briana Taylor at info@easthamptoncityarts.com

ECA Curates Shows at Easthampton Chamber of Commerce

2007-10-13T16:01:00.000-04:00

Easthampton City Arts has teamed with The Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce, bringing art to the newly renovated Chamber offices on an every other month schedule. The six shows a year will showcase Easthampton Artists' work on a rotating basis. If you're interested in having your work displayed at the Chamber just contact info@easthamptoncityarts.com.

Interview with Artist, Marlene Rye

2007-09-16T19:22:00.001-04:00

Marlene Rye works from her studio in Easthampton at the Paragon Arts & Industry building. You can see more of her work on her website www.marlenerye.com, and also on www.easthamptoncityarts.com.

1. Why are you an artist?

Everyone has heard stories of those people who follow a calling. The answer to the question, “Why are you an artist” I think could best be answered by admitting I have to be. There is no other occupation that I could envision myself doing. Even during those times in my life when I had to do another “job” to make money I painted in my free time. I am drawn to the intellectual rigor of making art, the challenge of expressing my view of the world for others to see. To be perfectly honest, I feel a burning need to give release to the images in my mind by transferring them to canvas. There is honestly nothing else I would want to be. Everyday that I wake up I’m excited about my job. Nell Blaine once said that… “a painting is like a spider web, it comes out of the body of the artist, it is pulled out of the body.” When my work is at it’s peak it is unplanned, spontaneous, flowing from my subconscious, yet resonating with my knowledge of art.

2. Did your parents encourage you to become an artist?

In 8th grade I would often copy women out of my parents book on Japanese paintings. My mom noticed my interest and signed me up for drawing lessons. In High School, I could never fit art classes into my schedule because if you were an honors student, there were no opportunities to take art. Once again my Mom saw that my desire wasn’t being filled so she found someone for me to take private lessons with. I didn’t actually learn much from him, but the fact that my Mom was never willing to let my interest be compromised stayed with me. When I went to college, being an artist was already part of my identity. My mother was greatly influential in the shaping that identity.

3. Weren’t they afraid that if you became an artist you would end up homeless and starving?

The short answer is no. My father has a very open mind and ended following his passions, which led him to become a scientist at Yale University. He and my mother both were always of the opinion that as long as I followed my own passions, things would turn out fine. My parents always encouraged me to do whatever made me happy. They never said anything negative about me majoring in art or wanting to be an artist. I have a vivid memory of my folks coming to my senior thesis show at Smith, just before I graduated. After seeing the show, my father wrote in the guestbook: “Your show is beautiful, and solidifies what I have always known, you see the world a little differently than the rest of us.” Once I started getting into shows they came to every opening they could and always had words of encouragement.

4. What artists have influenced you and how?

I look at everything and everybody my influences are always changing!

Nell Blaine for her exuberance.

Cezanne for the way he flattened a space and made it deep at the same time.

Arthur Dove and Ryder because I Iove their moodiness and mystery in their work.

Charles Burchfield and Emily Carr have a sense of playfulness in their work that I am drawn to.

Bernie Chaet is a very facile colorist, and I also love his brush stroke and structure.

Rothko for the depth in his color.

Ricardo Mazal for his line and layering.

Gauguin for his hot pallet.

The list goes on and on. I could fill pages with the artists I am thinking of, looking at, and am inspired by. The list is varied, and full of artists both alive and dead.

5. Could you tell us some more about your paintings, about what you paint?

I painted from life in the landscape for 10 years. After my son was born, I decided that what I wanted to say in my work had to be more of a combination of imagination and perception and memory. I wanted to get more of the senses into the work and paint about things that drew me to the landscape initially. Below I have included the artist statements from my last two shows in Philadelphia and SoHo. I think they are very relevant and describe what I am working towards in my paintings.

Artist Statement I

Travel in your mind back to a time as a child when you were in the “wilderness”: backyard, vacant lot, roadside, field, or forest. Remember how the world looked as you crawled through the grass, each individual blade becoming a towering tree, rocks transformed into mountains. Visualize looking through the brambles and thickets of your backyard and feeling the enormity of that space juxtaposed with the closeness of the surrounding branches. See a field, feel the openness of the air and the closeness of the warm ground beneath, expanding and contracting the space at the same time. These sensations are at the heart of my work.

Through painting I explore the idea of what wilderness feels like. Seldom do we slow down or use our senses fully enough to really experience nature. Take a stroll into these paintings, feel the color with your hands, breathe in the rich vividness. Journey slowly, letting the leaves brush against your body, notice the fragrance of purple flowers underfoot. Revel in the freshness of spring and celebrate the crispness of autumn. Dance with the trees as they stretch through the space, winding like ribbons in the wind.

Through use of color and line I attempt to depict not just images or scenes of nature but rather evoke feelings and emotion of a place. My mark making and palette is combined with layering, glazing, and a scratching away of the paint. What emerges is a portrait of a place over time. Light in the work is oftentimes multidirectional and the space is at once open and airy, then close and confining. Contrast is often present at times, yet space is sometimes seen through use of color alone. The overall effect is akin to a voyage through and into a place, not just a peek at or a visit to nature.

Whether I am painting large or tiny, I seek to create intimate worlds with a feeling of immensity. This vastness doesn’t necessarily manifest itself in the form of deep space, but rather a feeling of expansion inside oneself when looking at the work.

Landscape, wilderness, and the outdoors are spiritually and emotionally important to all of us. As children we know this inherently. I want to speak to that child in the viewer, and help them recapture a sense of the mystery, anxiousness, excitement and magic felt when outdoors.

Artist Statement II

My work continues to explore my childhood connection with nature, but lately I find myself speaking to the grown up I have become. Each painting is a leisurely walk through memories and dreams of place. Not one particular place, but place as it exists for all us. Secret places we went to as kids. Quiet places we go to now as adults. Places that bring us peace. Places that fuel our need for the mysterious. Maybe even places that scare us a little.

The scenes I depict do not exist in the physical world. They are inventions based upon a collection of the places I have been, and those that have touched me. Time and season become indefinite and fluid as the images coalesce upon the canvas.

The visual experience is evocative rather than informative. Just as nature is constantly changing, so to do the paintings evolve as they are viewed. Paint is layered and glazed to produce a shimmering transparent luminescence that resonates with memory and dream. Layers have been rubbed away as the painting grows, leaving the barest trace of color to remind us of the place it was before. Colors are highly saturated and intense, giving the scenes a deep, lush and visceral feel.

Ultimately, these paintings are a love letter written to myself. A letter I found so beautiful and touching, it had to be shared. As you wander through my work, I hope you take some time to reflect and relax. Remember your places. Places that make you happy and most importantly remind you of the joy of being alive.

Marlene Rye, Winter 2007

6. What inspires you to paint and how do you keep motivated when things get tough in the studio?

I take my summers off with my family. We go to the mountains in NC for 4 weeks and work at a camp on 3400 acres of land. I paint there, but I don’t show those paintings to anyone. It is my time to be in the woods and recharge. Because I am able to do that, I don’t get burned out in the studio.

However, if things do get a little bumpy in studio I go look at other artists or I go for walks in the woods and draw or take photos.

Sometimes when I feel inspiration lacking I invite my brother to my studio. He writes poetry about my paintings while I work. We mutually inspire each other. Sometimes his words will help me find a title for a piece, which I write on the wall and it helps me to push the painting in the direction of the word. This poem goes with the painting titled “The Quiet”. He has written 30 poems on my work.

The Quiet
By Bryan Rye

We dance, an old dance
To music, not of man but
Older. It is a song that
Does not end but few
Hear it. Stop. Listen. Perhaps
You will be moved as we.

We dance a dance begun long ago
To a song from the first dawn and
Perhaps older still. It is a dance
Without pause for we dance from
Beginning to end. The steps vary
With storm, drought, fire and chill.

Here in the peaceful place,
The quiet place. We will
Invite you to dance with us.
Near the water. Let the mountains
Hem you in, share in the grass’
Joy. The wind will bring
Us together. Dance with us.

7. How have you handled the business side of being an artist and publicizing your work?

I have a website that I keep up to date.

When my son was a baby I used his naptime to research showing opportunities. I entered 4 shows a month and got into 7 for the year. The next year I looked for shows in non-profit spaces. I had 14 shows over a period of a year and a half. At that time I started to get collectors and a gallery in Philadelphia (Gross McCleaf) became interested in me and gave me my first solo show in a commercial gallery.

This year I published my own book through Blurb.com that I have been using for marketing purposes.

I network with other artists, although I don’t do this as much as I should. An artist that I show with in NYC encouraged me to apply to a gallery in Sante Fe where he shows his work and now they want to see my work in person.

8. What advice would you give to an artist just starting out?

If you aren’t the most talented artist don’t get discouraged. I was never the best in any of my art classes. I didn’t get discouraged, instead I learned everything I could from the people around me and kept trying to improve my practice. Talent can only take you so far. Perseverance and never wavering from trying to improve is what helped me.

Follow your passion no matter how hard it may be financially. I cleaned toilets for a summer at a college in NC so that I could paint the gorgeous mountains after work. My first job out of college I made $5 an hour working for a college in VT because they let me paint outside in the afternoon and make up my hours at night.

Do your art as much as you can.

If you can get a studio away from your living space get one!

Apply to shows as often as you can.

Do whatever you need to in order to keep working.

Never let anyone tell you that you can’t be an artist.

It has been my experience that being an artist isn’t a highly respected profession in society. It is very difficult for people to grasp the idea that going to my studio is work for me. Granted, work I enjoy, but work nonetheless. The opinion I have encountered is that artists just play all day and it’s not a real job. I disagree with this viewpoint. To be an artist you have to be willing to challenge yourself everyday or you won’t grow. You have to learn to overcome your fears on many levels. You have to set your own deadlines and meet deadlines set by others. You have to be able to work under pressure while still growing in your practice and not letting your work get stagnant. You have to work when you don’t want to even when you don’t feel inspired. Sometimes you have to do other jobs you might not enjoy so that you can keep following your passion. But the bottom line is, it can be done.

9. Do you have a story you would like to tell about being an artist?

There were many times in my life where I have been faced with people that have said very discouraging things to me. In eighth grade I got a C in art because I couldn’t make a “creative” yarn painting. I wanted to draw from life!!!

In college an artist came to speak to the art majors and told us that being an artist is virtually impossible.

After I graduated, a colleague of my father’s asked me what I was going to do with a degree in studio art, was I just going to “hang pretty paintings on my wall?”

One time I was painting a huge painting outside (40” x 110”). Someone came by and asked me what I was going to do with such a large painting and why on Earth would anyone make such a large piece.

One time when I was out painting in the landscape a stranger actually told me that I would never make any money at painting and basically why should I bother.

As you can probably gather from my little anecdotes above, there has been an underlying theme in my life of bucking the system so to speak. Just doing what I want because it is my passion, and the consequences be damned. Doing what makes me happy, as long as it is done with passion and verve, has never resulted in anything less than stellar results. I am at a point in my career where my art is making more money than my teaching. So I am taking a break from academia to see what happens. If all works out as it has in the past, I expect things to be fantastic!

Cultural Collaborations and Conversations, Part 2

2007-09-14T12:41:00.000-04:00

Easthampton City Arts and the Easthampton Cultural Council
invite you to…

“CULTURAL COLLABORATIONS AND CONVERSATIONS”
Take 2

Thursday, September 20 from 6:30 - 8:30 PM
Easthampton Senior Center
19 Union Street
Join us in conversation about
Easthampton's cultural economic agenda for 2008-2009
Give us your best creative thinking as we consider two major initiatives:
• Access to the Arts and Artists in Easthampton
• 2009 Week-Long Celebration of the Arts

All IDEAS WELCOMED

COFFEE AND DESSERT WILL BE SERVED
We would appreciate knowing you’re coming, please call 529-1438 or email info@easthamptoncityarts.com to RSVP by Monday, September 17th. Thanks!

Easthampton Cultural Council Open House

2007-09-07T18:43:00.000-04:00

The Massachusetts Cultural Council and
The Easthampton Cultural Council
announce 2008 grant opportunities:
"Not Taken For Granted!"
The Easthampton Cultural Council will sponsor an Open House at the
Old Town Hall during the ArtWalk of September 8, 2007, from 5 pm - 7 pm.
Samples of previous grants, copies of the 2008 grant application, and members of the Cultural Council will be on hand to answer your questions about applying for Cultural Council funding.