Letter from Foothills Art Society President Jenn Bilow

This has been an exciting few months for FOOTHILLS ARTSociety. We are placing the finishing touches on our programs for 2008. It is a very impressive schedule offering something for everyone. Be sure to cut the schedule out , tack it on your calendar, and check it often.  We are sure you will not want to miss even one of these events.

We are proud to be co-sponsoring the Ruth Jones Ryan Exhibit with forARTSake in March. Ruth’s paintings are a joyful celebration of everyday life in her hometown Malone.  She shares a special insight with her whimsical paintings that will be sure to up-lift your heart and leave you with a smile.  Please join us for her opening reception from 6 to 8 PM on March 7.

FOOTHILLS is continuing to further our invaluable relationship with NCCC by sponsoring another Coffee House on March 14.  Save the Humans, a local band, will restore your faith in humanity with an eclectic mix of classic rock, funk, blues and original music.

In keeping with our 2008 strategic plan, the board has adopted a new mission statement, a revised logo, and a new tag line. 

Our most important achievement to date is the implementation of a fantastic children’s program. In February, FOOTHILLS ARTS will be sponsoring a free children’s watercolor class with local artist Pam May at the YMCA.  In April, Linda Sauther will be inspiring children with pen and ink at forARTSake, also free. On May 3, from 3 to 4, Nancy Child will be helping students in her class entitled Designing Your Own Jewelry for Children. These classes are made possible by the YOUNG ARTISTS IN ACTION EXHIBIT and Holy Family School.  The Zucchini Brothers, a very cool children’s band will add a little sunshine in wet and muddy April. 

We also received grants from NYSCA-DEC this January for two children’s programs. A children’s dance workshop with local professional dancer Kristin Glazier and her colleagues is in the works, as well as a puppet workshop and performance by Open Hand Theatre from Syracuse NY.  “Celebrating the Arts” and inspiring children is the core of each event.
 

This is a great time to join FOOTHILLS ARTSociety.  Our membership is growing, our programming is thriving, and we are just getting started.