Building on the success of last year’s inaugural event, the 2022 “Arts & Archives” exhibit will feature works for sale by over 50 local artists to benefit the Springs Historical Society & Community Library, held October 28 to 30 at Ashawagh Hall.
Among the painters, photographers, sculptors, ceramicists, and glassmakers showing at the three-day event, five artist couples and two parent-child duos will take part in the fundraising efforts.
The work of first-time contributor and 27 year-old painter Phoebe Gianis — daughter of visionary ceramicist and local teacher Robin Gianis — was discovered by curator Teri Kennedy on a visit to their studio.
“I noticed a series of stunning abstract paintings on the wall and asked Robin whose work it was,” said Kennedy. “When she said ‘my daughter, Phoebe,’ I jumped on the chance to recruit her for the show.”
Also taking part are legendary abstract expressionist Natalie Edgar-Pavia, and her son Paul Pavia — the renowned sculptor and Pollack-Krasner Foundation grant recipient.
Alongside the contemporary art, an exhibit of original 1970’s posters from Lee Krasner, James Brooks, Perle Fine, John Little, Ibram Lassaw, and Arnold Hoffman Jr. will be on display — as well as archival imagery and artifacts from the “Heart of Springs” district curated by SHS board member Ethel Henn.
Half of all of art sales will be generously donated to the Springs Historical Society — the volunteer organization operating the Springs Community Library — for the purchase of new books next year.
“We were blown away last year by the turnout and support from the community, and can’t thank the artists enough,” said SHS president Deana Tikkanen. “It was our biggest fundraiser of the year… and during a hurricane weekend!”
The event is free and open to the public, guests can sip refreshments at the Opening Reception on Saturday from 4 to 7 PM or take part in the Curator’s Tour & Wine Reception on Sunday from 1 to 3 PM, where featured speakers Esperanza Leon and Jess Frost will discuss the living legacies of James Brooks and John Little.
The show will be open Friday, from 1 to 5 PM, Saturday, from 11 AM to 7 PM, and Sunday, from 11 AM to 3 PM.