Stephanie Sittnick - Director of Sales ( 860) 227-8199 advertising@518mag.com
CONTRIBUTORS
Carol St.Sauveur Ferris, Karen Richman, Rona Mann
Chandler Stevens, Lawrence White, Kirsten Ferguson, Alan B. Richer, Crystal Cobert Giddens, Nellie Ackerman-Vellano, Kristina Watrobski
Chef Armand Vanderstigchel
COVER
“The Sledding Party” Oil on Panel 6" x 8" - Artist Lisa David
Talent + Tenacity = Success Artist Amy Bergeron
pg. 8
Perpetuating an Icon’s Legacy: Charles J. Pignone
pg. 18
Welcome to the January issue! Once we’ve finished celebrating and looking back on the year that’s passed, our attention usually turns to the year ahead. For many people, January is a time of self-development and reinvention. It’s a time to hit the ground running, get organized, and develop some healthy habits so that we can get the most out of the coming year.
In this issue we have some amazing artists gracing these pages. This month we are featuring the works of Amy Bergeron, Bruce Hoffman, The Current and Charles J. Pignone. Extraordinary stories on extraordinary people.
As always, our goal at 518 PROFILES, is always to focus on the good, the beautiful and the positive by publishing stories with heart and soul. We strive each month to deliver authentic and unique content about creative people and interesting destinations. Enjoy!
Stephanie Sittnick Founder / Publisher
kəˈnekʃən.
“We create connection these days in this moment” pg. 28
Delighting in the Unexpected
The Many Chapters of Clay Artist, Bruce J. Hoffman pg. 36
Sweet Nostalgia
Of Revolutions, Resolutions, and Revelations Finding Peace, Promise & An Unwanted “Gift” in January
The Laffer Gallery
Phone: 518-695-3181
Website: thelaffergallery.com
Address: 96 Broad St, Schuylerville NY 12871
Gallery Hours: Thursday - Sunday 12pm - 5pm.
Upstate Artists | December 14 - January 19
January
Talent + Tenacity = Success Artist Amy Bergeron
by Carol St.Sauveur Ferris
When you have the talent to do something and the desire to do it, it’s often tenacity and guts that get you there. There’s an old saying that is equally true. Luck is what happens when hard work meets opportunity. For Amy Bergeron, all of the above apply.
Amy was born in Schenectady and raised in Charlton, New York. She recalls growing up in a nice neighborhood that had a creek in the woods behind her home and also spending many vacations at a camp in the Adirondacks that belonged to her family. It was a time when social media and cell phones did not exist, so Amy’s memories are chock full of childhood adventures in Mother Nature’s bucolic backyards. Memories that would surface in her paintings many years later.
“The Adirondacks is where I spent a good portion of my life. My grandfather bought lakefront property on Paradox Lake, and
built six camps as a vacation spot for other people as well as us. He passed away when my mother was 14. My grandmother took it over. The reason I mention this is because my love for trees, the smell of the water, and the sound of the waves, all of it became a part of me and an inspiration for later paintings.”
She attended kindergarten in a little white house in Charlton that is now a private home and later went through the traditional school system. As Amy recalls, her artistic abilities were first discovered in 6th grade when a pencil sketch of a shoe she had done caught the attention of her art and homeroom teachers. It was at that moment that she started to realize she might have some talent. But pencil wasn’t her only creative medium. Unbeknownst to her teachers, Amy was also scooping up clay from the creek and sculpting it into animals as well.
No doubt she came about her artistic talent nat urally. With a mother who sang opera, played the piano, and did oil painting as a hobby, how could you not have inherited some of those creative genes? By high school, where she took all the art and college prep classes that were offered, Amy’s drawing skills were increasingly obvious. In fact, she even did charcoal portraits at the request of school faculty members and staff.
Following high school graduation, Amy took a job in retail, was promoted to manager, and later transferred to the Quincy, MA store. Three years later, at the age of 21, she returned to
New York and enrolled in Junior College of Al bany, now known as Sage College.
At first Amy majored in Commercial Art but switched to Fine Art at the encouragement of her professors. It was clear where her true talent was which earned her the school’s award for the “Most Promising Artist.” She also received her Associates Degree in Applied Science in 1980. Marriage and two daughters followed, then a divorce in 1987, so the challenges of sin gle-parenting quickly became a reality but also sparked her tenacious spirit.
Amy soon saw an ad in the paper for an art studio assis-
tant and took the part-time job. Later, she took a full-time job in a factory sewing backpacks to support her children, and just like in high school, she was doing portraits upon request again. She later worked for a woman-owned company fabricating Halloween costumes. Each job nurtured Amy’s creative spirit in dif ferent ways, eventually leading her to seek higher education opportunities. She came across Skidmore College’s University Without Walls program and enrolled. Exposed to all mediums, her love for oil painting got its start here where she learned the techniques of the Masters and experimented as well. Despite
"Winter in the City"- 12" x18”
"Pink Cone Flowers"- 12" x 12"
"Corlis Caroll on Monhegan Island" - 24" x 12"
life’s challenges, Amy flourished and received her Bachelor of Science degree in Art.
It was a crazy busy time and rewarding as well. Unfortunately, life struck once again in 2002 when Amy had to stop working and put her painting and drawing career on hold to care for her elderly parents full-time. Most caregivers will tell you that caring for a loved one with dementia is an exhausting re sponsibility, in addition to heartbreaking, as you witness their decline a little every day. Finding comfort and relief from time to time is crucial and can come from familiar places along with the unexpected. For Amy, comfort and relief came from enjoying and engaging with nature.
“When my mother got dementia, I took solace from gardening and planting flowers. Eventually, this became a subject matter for m e, and my view of flowers changed... the light and how it hit the colors of the flowers, th eir abstract type stems and leaves, perhaps their comfort to me in the early stages of paint ing flowers. The color and beauty of flowers is a subject matter that I think I will a lways paint whether it be occasional or a series.”
My grandfather and my mother on the lake
"Paradox Lake at Dusk"- 11" x 14"
"Port Clyde Maine"- 14" x 18"
"Autumn in the Narrows (Paradox Lake)"- 24" x 12"
As she states, time spent in the garden provided inspiration for future paintings. You only need to look at a delightful piece she painted from a friend’s photograph, called Susan’s Flowers, to realize the joy she once found in the garden during that diffi cult time. The composition seems to dance across the canvas, while her brushwork deftly captures the natural light play and vibrant col ors of the flowers. Its style leaves little doubt that the flower garden was and is an uplifting and inspiring escape to recharge and reflect.
Fast forward to today, it’s clear that Amy’s talent runs wide and deep and her mediums are equally diverse. She is comfortable working
with pencil on paper, brushing oil paint on canvas, and sculpting forms out of clay. She starts the day in the late morning at her stu dio and works through the af ternoon. Fortunately, the studio is in her home, so she easily returns to it for a couple of hours in the evening. In the past she traveled to a studio in the Saratoga Springs Art District to paint but found the com mute to her home studio so much easier, giving her an additional 90 minutes of creative time.
It's clear that her work is often inspired by memories of the past and experiences in the present. Going to a museum or gallery might trigger some creative ideas and of course, the
landscapes from her childhood will often make an appearance as well. More recently, time spent on Monhegan Island located off the coast of Maine, has inspired her to paint the island’s unique beauty and connected her with other like-minded artists. It is an artist’s paradise and has been a haven for some very accomplished and well-known painters including Andrew Wyeth, Rockwell Kent, and Edward Hopper.
While many of her paintings are influenced by the landscapes she has been fortunate to live,
"Bottles" - "18 x "14"
"Amejo Amyot"- 20" x 13"
"Woman with Tilted Head" 10 1/2" x 7"
"Fruits of Autumn" - 12" x"15"
"Rainy Day in Rome" - 28 1/4 " x 22"
work, and play in, she is always looking for new challenges and ways to express herself. Tenebrism is a case in point. It is a style of painting that fascinates and inspires her to ex periment with light. The technique was in troduced by the famous painter Caravaggio in the 16th century and employs the use of ex treme contrast between subject and background. The subject is illuminated in bright light while the background remains intensely dark, creating a breathtaking and often emo tional response.
Amy’s painting, titled Grapes, is a perfect ex ample of Tenebrism. She achieved the stark contrast between the grapes and their background by laying a box on its side, cutting out an opening in both top and side, then lining it with black paper. She placed the grapes in the box and proceeded to direct the light source
through the openings to achieve the desired effect.
The grapes are plump and look luscious against the dark background. It’s one of her fa vorites. Another piece, called Crystal Bowl with Fruit is of a pear and apple in a crystal bowl. It beautifully captures light streaming across the tops of the fruit and through the cut crystal pattern.
Without a doubt, drawing and painting have always been central to Amy’s life as an artist, but there are two bags of clay that have been sitting in her dining room for a while, calling her name. She will be answering the call soon, but the subject matter is to be determined. In the past, at both Sage and Skidmore, she did beautiful figurative sculptures that are emo tional and sometimes sensual. One piece features a nearly nude woman leaning back against a rock, and another which happens to be Amy’s favorite, is the head of a woman tilted up with eyes closed and long hair flo wing down the side of her face. It’s stunning.
When asked what her goal is working in different mediums and creating such a wide variety of
pieces, she shares that her ultimate goal is to create work that “invites viewers into a shared experience, bridging the gap between reality and artistic vision.”
For those of us who have been fortunate to see her work, it appears that she is succeeding.
Amy Bergeron’s paintings and sculptures can be enjoyed at The Blooming Artist in Clifton Park, New York. She is currently working on a website to make her work available online for viewing and purchase soon. Until its launch, you are invited to contact her at abergeron119@gmail.com.
"In the Morning" Monhegan Island Maine - 11" x 14"
"Light and Shadow"- 24" x 18 "
"Apple and Pear in Cut Glass Bowl" - 12" x 12"
" Grapes " - 12" x 12"
“I’ve been living with chronic eczema on my arms and legs for years. It’s at its worst during the dry, colder months. Having seen 3 different, highly rated dermatologists with no success, I accepted the reality that itchy, sleepless nights was something I just had to live with. Then I met Doctor Galay…”
Albany Resident Liam M. approached Katya Galay, DT CM as a “last ditch effort” to relieve his spotty ec zema symptoms. After consulting with multiple respected dermatologists, he believed his inflamed, itchy skin was an inevitable product of his genetics. But after regularly resisting the urge to scratch his arms and legs for years, he was desperate to try anything.
“Scratching is very hard to resist, but it is the worst thing you can do. Regular scratching traumatizes the skin and causes it to thicken," explains Katya Galay, Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine at Life Cycles Integrative Health. “Depending on the type and sev erity of the eczema, patients can experience constant rashes, dry flaky skin, discomfort, difficulty sleeping, bleeding, weeping, and even infections. Living with eczema can be a very miserable existence.”
Lia m’s condition didn’t quite risk infection, but his flare-ups made it increasingly difficult to concentrate at work, enjoy time with his family, and sleep through the night. He never felt clear-headed or well rested. Sweating made everything worse. Peaceful hikes in the Adirondacks were ruined with constant scratchy distractions.
Every aspect of life with eczema becomes more challenging. It’s not just a continuous nuisance, it’s a vicious cycle. Itching leads to scratching, which can cause bleeding and more inflammation, which causes more itching — the cycle continues.
I Finally Got The Itch I Couldn’t Scratch
Many struggling with stubborn eczema see and feel actual results from this local clinic
“As seasons changed, things would clear up for a little bit. Sometimes I’d even forget about the ec zema for a few weeks. Then it would come back — it would start as a rash, then an itch — and the more I’d scratch, the more it would itch, my body would be covered in bloody scabs… I’d try creams, which would work for a little. But re lief was never permanent.” – Liam
“Emollient creams can be very helpful for patients with the dry type of eczema. They can help protect the skin and keep it moisturized. Topical steroid creams will re duce inflammation to a degree, but, unfortunately, can lead to skin atrophy and rebound flare-ups that come with vengeance. When we see the damp type of eczema, where skin becomes weepy and crusty, topi cals alone don’t do the trick,” said Dr. Galay.
“A friend told me about this specialist, so I went for a consultation. Dr. Galay told me that this would not be a quick fix, but assured me that she can help. I didn’t have high hopes. I mean, why would THIS help me, if nothing else could? She gave me a treatment plan, which involved medic inal teas, and a couple of creams: one to use during the day, and one at night. After 2 weeks my itch was almost entirely gone. Fast forward 3 months, and my rash was completely clear. It’s been a year since I finished my treatment. Still eczema-free!” – Liam.
“While symptoms might seem consistent from pa tient to patient, there’s no one-size-fits-all ap proach to ec zema treatment. To find the right treatment, you have to be part doctor, and part de tective. And sometimes the smallest details in a patient's history provide the big answers we need.” Dr. Galay mentioned.
These steady results seem to stem from a consistent method of eczema treatment that Dr. Galay uses at her clinic. She starts by interviewing the patient to identify root causes of the problem, followed by a series of pictures to accurately measure progress.
“Finding the right treatment often boils down to the specific type of eczema someone’s living with. With this in mind, we formulate special blends of medicinal herbs that are tailored specifically to
each patient, their ec zema type, and stage. The f ormulas are then ad justed according to the patient’s progress. The whole process takes a few months. But patients notice results within the first few weeks.” concluded Dr. Galay.
One major misconception is that all eczema is the same — it isn’t.
• If you’ve had eczema since childhood, and you also suffer from allergies, or asthma, you might have Ato pic Dermatitis.
• If your eczema rash is round or coin-shaped, you probably have Nummular Eczema.
• If your rash is limited to your hands, and your hands sweat a lot, you likely have Pompholyx Eczema.
• If your eczema is limited to you legs, and you have varicose veins, it may be Stasis Eczema.
“ I was so used to the constant itching, I had almost forgotten what it was like to be comfortable. To sleep throughout the night again. It’s hard to put it into words… I thought my eczema would just be part of my life. I am thrilled to be able to enjoy hik ing with my family again, and not hav ing to worry about the itch!” — Liam.
Tired of living with the itch? At Life Cycles Integrative Health they don’t treat symptoms, they address ec zema at its source, leading to gradual, and stable re lief. Dr. Katya Galay specializes in autoimmune and inflammatory skin conditions. She works with p eople of all ages – from infants to adults –fo cusing on skin health restoration, especially in cases where con ventional treatments have not been ef fective.
Hoboken, New York, Las Vegas, Hollywood, Palm Springs, London, and Monte Carlo are among the many places associated with Francis Albert Sinatra. But, Latham, NY?
Charles Pignone, President of Frank Sinatra Enterprises and Sinatra Archivist, was born in 1966 in Troy, NY, and at the age of 10, moved to nearby Latham.
Perpetuating an Icon’s Legacy: Charles J. Pignone
By Alan B. Richer Photos by Frank Sinatra Enterprises
Pignone’s grandfather was in the vending business and had about 100 jukeboxes and a warehouse. As a teenager, Charlie would work with him replacing the 45 singles, always including five to ten Sinatra tracks such as Strangers in the Night, My Way, and Summer Wind.
When his grandfather took his parents, aunt, and uncle to see Sinatra’s 1974 live concert, “The Main Event “broadcast from Madison Square Garden, Charlie watched the performance on television and really began to identify with the singer.
Shortly after Sinatra recorded New York, New York in 1980, the Chairman of the Board came to Saratoga Performing Arts Center, and Charlie’s grandfather got the family tickets. After
seeing him live, Pignone started going through his parents’ Sinatra albums and was hooked.
In 1984, at the age of 18, Pignone started trav eling to places such as Providence and Boston where he could drive to see Sinatra perform. Shortly thereafter, he began running one of Sinatra’s fan clubs, the Sinatra Society in America, and Frank Sinatra Jr. told him, “If you’re going to cover the old man, you should come on the road with him.”
During his four years at Siena College in Loudonville where he majored in Marketing, Pignone would travel with Sinatra, usually to Atlantic City and Las Vegas; and when he graduated, working for Old Blue Eyes became a full-time position.
Frank Sinatra, performing live onstage in New York, waving with audience visible behind. David
Sinatra always hoped that the younger generations would find his music and was fascinated that a then-18-year-old was so immersed in his music.
“Frank Sinatra was an ordinary man with extraordinary talent. One of his talents was making one feel at ease. While I was very nervous the first time I met him, he couldn’t have been any nicer.” Frank Sinatra Jr. told Charlie, “Who knows how long his career will continue? There’s a finite time that my father will be singing on the road. You should be part of it so that you can help preserve his legacy.”
And so a career was launched. “Nothing I could have planned,” said Pignone. “When I think back on it, there was no template, there was no road map. I was just very lucky that I happened to be in the right place at the right time.”
Frank Sinatra Enterprises consists of three main people: Tina Sinatra; Sinatra’s long-time family attorney, Bob Finkelstein; and Charles. To gether, the three of them have been there for over 100 years combined. “I’m very lucky that the family doesn’t do anything to take the money and run. There’s a consistent level. There’s planning, and we feel that authenticity is the key. We operate as if Frank is still alive. Does the particular project feel right? What would Sinatra’s likely response be? Any one of these things I do, I’m hoping that Frank would approve of it.”
Pignone oversees Siriusly Sinatra Radio as well as all of the other various Sinatra projects. He produces many of the shows on Siriusly Sinatra and has written several books on Sinatra including the New York Times best seller The Sinatra Treasures and Sinatra 100th. He has produced numerous albums and box sets including Frank Sinatra: Nothing But The Best, Sinatra: Vegas, and the 2011 television special, Sinatra Sings.
Charles Pignone and Frank Sinatra - photo by Frank Sinatra Enterprises
Bob Finkelstein, Tina Sinatra and Charles Pignone
Tony Bennett photo by Frank Sinatra Enterprises
photo by Frank Sinatra Enterprises
photo by Frank Sinatra Enterprises
“Everything is done on a case-by-case basis.”For example, when asked if there was any thought to releasing duets between two artists who during their lives never sang to gether, such as Sinatra and Johnny Cash, Pignone responded, “They had to meet as their lives overlapped. Since they did not choose to perform together while they were alive, we probably would pass on it.”
There have been a few posthumous duets with Celine Dion (All the Way), Robbie Williams (My Way), Seal (Santa Claus is Coming to Town), and Helene Fischer (Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas).
“We have a five-year plan and usually we reissue two or three seminal albums a year as well
as a box set or a big set every couple of years. We always look for an anniversary. We are not trying to change anything. We are trying to improve it. Technology changes. You have to remember today how younger people are listening to music, a lot of people are buying vinyl. But most people are streaming and listening to it, so we have to be cognizant that they’re listening with earbuds.”
They have done multimedia shows at both Radio City Music Hall and London that involve Sinatra on a large screen accompanied by a live orchestra. There have been discussions about a museum. A very successful Sinatra-themed restaurant opened in Nashville, TN along with one at the Wynn/Encore Resort in Las Vegas.
Some recent projects include a Sinatra bobblehead singing New York New York that was distributed at a New York Yankees game.
During our interview, Pignone was getting ready for the release of the 40th Anniversary re-issue of Sinatra’s last full album, LA Is My Lady, which reunited Sinatra with the late leg endary composer and producer, Quincy Jones who provided his historical files to Charlie.
Pignone is very proud of reissuing Watertown where all of the songs served as vignettes in a single story of a divorced family and were written by the same composers, Bob Gaudio of the Four Seasons, and Jake Holmes. Pignone explained that the album is considered a hidden masterpiece that never did well commercially in part, because of the artwork that was used. The entire album was remastered to enhance the orchestra.
Regarding the two Duets albums, Pignone explained that while everyone wanted to sing with Sinatra, some artists, including Cher and
Seal- photo by Frank Sinatra Enterprises
Sinatra Palladium show
Quincy Jones - photo by Frank Sinatra Enterprises
Elton John, did not end up in the final product because of licensing issues with their record labels.
Pignone described how the essence of Sinatra can be deciphered from his singing. “If you listen to the music, you’ll hear everything you need to know about Frank Sinatra. If you’re in a jovial mood, listen to something like Come Fly With Me or Come Swing With Me. If you’re in a depressed mood, listen to something like Only the Lonely, Wee Small Hours, or Watertown. And if you don’t understand Frank Sinatra after hearing him sing, there’s
nothing I can tell you to open your mind to appreciate him.”
When asked what will happen to Sinatra’s legacy fifty years from now, Charles responded with a line from Sammy Cahn’s lyrics to All the Way.“Who knows where the road will lead us, only a fool would say.”
However, upon further reflection, he feels con fident about the Chairman of the Board’s legacy. “Sinatra’s catalog is like a Tiffany dia mond. Every once in a while you need to polish it. Sinatra has been played through most of the 20th century. People knew him or were aware of him, so there’s some type of reverence or it reminds people of a better time or their family when they hear Frank Sinatra.
We find that putting his music in video games, or commercials in troduces him to new generations. There was a hologram of Frank in “Blade Runner” singing One for My Baby. I will see an uptick when a song is used in a commercial or a movie. The streaming will jump, because you have to expose people to the music. When they hit a certain age, late 20s, or early 30s, they have a little living under their belt and people will gravitate and will understand Frank Sinatra better. Nobody was as diligent in recording as Sinatra.
As a result, every generation will find him, people will gravitate to his music. It’s astonishing to me that he’s streaming billions of songs a year which I think is fantastic. There is nobody from his era, that type of music. He is eons above everybody, up there with Elvis and the Beatles.”
If Charlie is right, perhaps Sinatra’s toast to his audience will end up being prophetic:
“May you live forever and may the last voice you hear be mine.”
Sinatra Bar & Lounge, Nashville, TN
Sinatra Restaurant at the Wynn, Las Vegas, NV
Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr. and Frank Sinatra
“We create connection these days in this moment”
by Rona Mann
Connection.
The phonetic pronunciation above serves as our title, but true Connection is what this story is all about. It is the story.
It’s also all about a bucolic piece of geography plunked down in the middle of rural Vermont with a population of only 5000 that often swells to one million annually, 100,000 during peak seasons. Its nearest big city, Burlington, is a healthy 45-minute drive away, yet people are drawn here four seasons of the year for skiing, snowboarding, hiking, cross-country, kayaking, magnificent calendarworthy foliage, tiny shops and eclectic boutiques, memorable culinary adventures, and the sheer beauty of it all...for this is Stowe.
You may also know it as the site of the famous Von Trapp Lodge, the real-life family from “The Sound of Music.” But what you may not know is that one of contemporary art’s best-kept secrets is nestled right within this village, and it is a “find” to which you will want to journey and explore.
This is The Current, a center for contemporary art with a 43-year history and a future that just keeps getting brighter and more hopeful. The Current is a non-profit, member-supported art center installation that is 100%
...Rachel Moore
“Exposed
dedicated and connected to this community in every way.
Rachel Moore, Executive Director and Director of Exhibitions wears two hats and wears them proudly. Moore also has a great passion for what she does because while it’s about the art, it’s always about the connection to the community and its people. Originally the curator of The Current, when asked to take over as Executive Director it was on the condition that she would continue to curate the exhibitions. She didn’t have to be asked twice. “I’m very passionate about that.”
Stowe may be geographically isolated, but The Current is perfectly positioned, “right in the center of town, next to a school and by the library,” begins Moore. “Education is so much a part of what we do and who we are.”
The Current appears to have connections to everything that goes on in Stowe, education being tantamount and a huge source of Rachel Moore’s passion. “We have after-school classes, summer camps, and both family and
adult workshops. We have many young peo ple whose world is strictly Vermont, who aren’t able to travel and widen their horizons, so we bring the experience of art to them.”
To that end, The Current delights in hosting internationally renowned artists-in-residence at their center. Most recently, they invited Chakaia Booker and Justin Sanz, both known internationally – Booker as an American sculptor creating monumental abstract pieces from recycled tires and steel - and Sanz, a master printmaker whose work is con tained within the collections at The Library of Congress. In just three or four days, these two artists taught hundreds of students from area schools to hands-on create their own prints, an experience students in larger cities and towns across the country might never have.
Rachel Moore
K-5 students from Stowe Elementary School and Johnson Elementary had the unique opportunity to work with renowned artist Chakaia Booker and Master Printer Justin Sanz to create their own unique print.
Justin Sanz and Chakaia Booker Photo by Daniel Wong
“Many of our students might never travel to Manhattan to go to MoMA or The Met, so we bring the experiences to them.”
Additionally, the gallery at The Current features a Student Art Show each year, exhibiting the work designed and created by children from kindergarten through the 12th grade, a source of community pride and an indelible experience for students of all ages.
The Current also presents three -four exhibitions each year includ ing a Members’ Show and Sale. This is not a juried show, but open to anyone who is a member and has original art they wish to include in the exhibit. The art encompasses a wide range of
media from painting to video, printing, photography, cyber art, mosaics, stained glass, and more.
And why that curious name, “The Current?” Moore doesn’t even pause for a breath. “It’s who we are and what we do. I believe the arts can be a platform for activism. We are engaged in civic engagement, in creating connection these days in this moment.”
Part of accomplishing those goals is to constantly allow for different voices, not just from other curators and visiting artists, but from the members who support The Current. Then, of course, there is the not-so-small matter of funding this treasure we have unearthed
“A Place of Memory” by artist Nyugen E. Smith
Artist Talk with Esperanza Cortés
Artist-in-Residence, Júlia Pontés
Presentation by Will Kasso Condry, first winner of The Vermont Prize.
in this tiny town. “75% comes from donations,” Moore adds, which is a remarkable feat for any art center in any size community. “That of course en compasses fundraising events, but we also get grants, and we have our community connections like the local PTO.”
There’s that word again, “connection.” Something Moore mentions frequently in conversation because it is the cornerstone of what The Current is built
upon and the cornerstone of how Moore herself be lieves and operates.
“Our gallery is also used for lectures, performances, film screenings, and community event rentals. We are proud to have a longstanding partnership with Stowe Story Labs which teaches writing for films.” Stowe Story Labs is also a non-profit in town that is dedicated to connecting screenwriters, filmmakers, and creative producers worldwide with seasoned
industry professionals to develop their skills, projects, and to work with a network of like- minded artists. It is yet another example of how Stowe functions as a truly successful collaborative community.
Yes, it’s been 43 years, and when Moore is asked about the future of the Art Center she says, “We are bursting at the seams. I don’t want to move this location because it’s perfect to be right in the center of town, right next to a school, right by a library. But I am looking for a second space where we could house our ex hibitions, lectures, and performances.” She’s not rushing it, though. Rachel Moore is very purposeful, very deliberate in making every move. You hear it in her voice. Hers is a calming presence, but make no mistake, the lady’s
tough where she needs to be, and when it comes to The Current and those cherished partnerships with the Stowe community, she is absolutely resolute.
The Current has not only flourished but stayed current with what is happening in the art world and the world itself. “As we all know, the country is divided right now,” Moore says ruefully, “and that’s why when I look ahead to the future I want more partnerships. I want us to be a resource on an elevated level for this area and our kids. Our plan is to do more artists-in-residence, more partnerships, and to support artists in a bigger way. More resources like ours are needed in small towns across America. I hope we can become a model for all rural communities. You have to have connections. We want to create a connection for kindness in the world.”
[ˈfaɪnd]
This is the phonetic spelling for the end of our story. It is the word “find.”
The Current is indeed that..a true find.. Make the journey.
Go find it!
The Current is located at 90 Pond Street right in the heart of Stowe. (802) 253-8358
www.thecurrentnow.org Open Monday-Saturday
“Taking Time: A solo exhibition by Chakaia Booker,”.
Exhibit "When the well is dry" photo by Paul Rogers Photography
Delighting in the Unexpected The Many Chapters of Clay Artist, Bruce J. Hoffman
by Carol St.Sauveur Ferris
When speaking with clay artists, it’s clear that working with the medium often requires a great deal of strength, a lot of patience, and a generous dose of willingness. Willingness to let the final outcome be whatever it is going to be. Not many people are able to put in the long hours of work and let go of the result, yet this clay artist delights in it.
Bruce Hoffmann, with many career chapters to his credit, was born in Brooklyn, New York. He was the middle child in a family of five sib lings, including three sisters and one brother, which later grew to include two foster kids when he was a teenager. The growing family moved to northern New Jersey then Pennsylvania, and according to Bruce, home was an old farmhouse that his parents trans formed into a very warm and welcoming place for kids to hang out. So welcoming in fact, that in addition to their family of nine, there were always at least three or four other kids in the mix with music and laughter
echo ing throughout. It was also the place where the heart of this future artist took shape.
In high school, Bruce took many art classes like so many other students who were happily ex ploring their creative souls. He was also blessed with a great art teacher, Fred Swarr, who introduced him to many different medi ums. Because of that exposure, Bruce dis covered that sculpting in clay resonated with him, and to this day that has never changed. Luckily for him, his parents encouraged all their kids to find what they loved and to do it well. Though he followed several different career paths for many years, that’s exactly what he did.
Following high school graduation, Bruce worked in various retail and entry-level jobs. One of those jobs was as a cook in a Mexican restaurant which ended up sparking his interest in the culinary arts. Attending college in Mays Landing, New Jersey for Hospitality Manage-
ment soon followed. He spent years in the restaurant and hospitality industry, both front and back of the house, but eventually enrolled at SUNY Empire State and earned his BS de gree in Youth Counseling. That was followed by earning his New York Teaching Certificate as well.
It’s no surprise, given his family background, that Bruce loved working with kids. In the early days, he was a teacher’s assistant in special education. He followed that working in a program for those who needed direction, a
rudder if you will since he had worked in a technical school that teaches the trades including cosmetology, culinary arts, woodworking, au tomotive repair, and more. As you might imagine, Bruce taught culinary arts, drawing on his background in restaurant and hospitality management. From there he became Coordinator of Work Placement, serving as a bridge between schools and the workplace while placing kids in jobs and internships.
Though he loved working with kids, he never lost his love for art. As a result, he enrolled in
an adult education program at Skidmore College where he took a class with Alice Manzi, a good friend, who was also teach ing figurative sculpture. While tak ing that class one night a week, he came across another clay arts class being taught by
Adjunct Instructor, Jill FishonKo vachick. Bruce was captivated by all the smoke and the fire-pits she was working with and discovered a new-to-him clay art process known as Raku. From that moment he was hooked.
However, because of his very busy teaching schedule and the fact that clay art cannot be done at the kitchen table, Bruce was not able to dive into the medium as he would have liked, but he did make a friend in Jill. That friendship has been equally enduring and creatively encouraging so it is no surprise that it has also kept him con nected to clay art over the years.“I guess you can say my art was always my therapy. I love the creative outlet it allows.”
That creative outlet is now finding a more fo cused and central place in his life. Bruce re cently retired after spending 32 years in education, allowing him to devote more time
to working with clay. While he doesn’t yet have an established routine for creating, he does have a wonderful place to create. Saratoga Clay Arts Center in Schuylerville, New York is now his second home. Not because he is there all the time, but because it is where he feels most comfortable, inspired, and focused.
Coincidentally, or maybe not, it is also the incredible place for clay artists of every stripe to come and play with clay and was founded by the very same instructor who was set ting the Skidmore world on fire, or at the very least, their kiln.
“I’m very fortunate to have a place to work. Jill FishonKovachick is the owner as well as an extremely talented artist and a great friend. I’m lucky to have her as friend and mentor!”
Raku, the Japanese style of making and firing pottery is still his focus, and Bruce believes it will always be. It simply res onates with him. It involves hand-molding the clay which is typical of many clay-making methods. Where Raku differs from the others is in the firing. A bisque or glazed piece is placed in a special kiln at a relatively low temperature, typically 1800 degrees Fahrenheit. It is then removed while
still glowing hot and placed in a closed con tainer filled with combustible materials such as sawdust, straw, or newspaper, which ignite and create a reaction on the pottery’s sur face or glaze. The results are incredibly unique colors and effects in the glaze.
Unfortunately, the extreme stress that this process places on a piece, also called thermal shock, will sometimes cause hairline cracks and/or break it. Bruce may attempt to repair the piece, in the style of Kintsugi, another Japanese form of art that repairs broken pottery pieces with lacquer mixed in metal powder that is usually silver or gold. Other times, he may simply abandon it. That is just part of the Raku experience.
He also enjoys working with molds which produce a consistent shape to a piece of pottery, but the organic beauty of Raku will always be what appeals to him most. Again, its inherent unpredictability is also part of that appeal. Not many artists are willing to put in all the time and effort required to create a beautiful work of art and have no control over the final result. Bruce truly embraces it. When his finished piece is cooled enough to remove from the combustibles, the excitement and the element of surprise are present for him every time. Sometimes the surprise is a piece more beautiful than he could have possibly imagined and other times it is an epic failure. And that’s okay.
Since focusing on Raku art, Bruce has discovered through trial and error plus a generous amount of experimentation, that
shaping and creating bowls are the most re warding for him to create. In fact, they are now his signature pieces, exhibited in galleries, and prized by serious collectors.
Some of the bowls are large-scale and can be up to 24” in diameter. Their edges tend to be raw and irregular. The glazes he uses are unique from pie ce to piece, and the outcomes are organically beautiful. Some sparkle and others glow. Because Raku fired pieces are somewhat porous, the majority of his pottery is to be admired and displayed, not used for serving food.
People who buy his pieces appreciate their one-of-a-kind, unique beauty. For Bruce, knowing that someone admires his work and might just add one of his signature bowls to their pottery collection brings him tremendous joy. It makes all the years leading up to this time in his life more precious and worth every minute.
“I’m grateful for how things came into my life and what it’s done for me. I only hope that I can continue to give back to people - maybe by helping a student in school, a neighbor across the street, or helping someone who walks into the gallery and finds a piece that makes them happy.”
Bruce is currently exhibiting his pottery at The Blooming Artist, but he is also considering avenues that will connect him to interior designers who have tremendous influence on their clients who enjoy collecting art. To be sure, in big cities and small towns everywhere, there are large ex panses of blank walls ready and waiting for the perfect painting to be hung and lonely pedestals waiting for a beautiful piece of pottery to take its place in the spotlight as well.
Might we suggest a Bruce J. Hoffmann signature bowl for their consideration?
To view his one-of-a-kind bowls and clay art, visit The Bloom ing Artist Gallery at 675 Grooms Road, Clifton Park, NewYork in person or online at www.thebloomingartist.gallery. You can also contact Bruce di rectly at brucejhoffmann@gmail.com.
Of Revolutions, Resolutions, and Revelations
Finding Peace, Promise & An Unwanted “Gift” in January
by Karen Richman
OPTIMISM: Ah, January, the start of another year!
PESSIMISM: Ack, January, the start of another year!
I often wonder when any one of the talented artists you read about in 518 Profiles looks at an empty canvas, if they freeze for a minute or two, wondering how they’re going to come up with yet another inspiring end result that will please enough people that perhaps one of them might wish to add it to their collection.
I’m not an artist, but since I was a little girl, the promise of a brand new, crispy, right-outta-the-box new year always excited me and also made me a bit unsettled, all at the same time. First, because of broken resolutions stirring up memories of in adequacy because I hadn’t fulfilled them or perhaps had broken a habit I had vowed the previous new year to change. Yet, there was always that excitement of a clean slate, an empty canvas that allowed the promise of starting over, wiping away melancholy, looking ahead with promise.
January gets a bum rap. People paint it as a downer after all the fun of the holidays and its sweet nostalgia. But nostalgia reminds us of the passage of time, forcing us to face the reality of aging and change. I always try to return to that young version of Karen full of unformed ideas, but loaded with dreams and excitement and energy for what might lie ahead in the new year. It empowers me. The days seemed endless back then filled with simple things like sledding, snowball fights, steaming mugs of hot chocolate, the school year half-completed, and upcoming winter holidays on the horizon.
But even though January brings with it days that darken before 5 PM, cold winds, and those bills from holiday spending, it also brings the chance to make new memories, visit well-loved places while anticipating new adventures, and making new friends. January is quiet, in direct contrast to the happy squeals, friendly caroling, and hustle and bustle of the holidays just past. Still, January is not a month of regret, it is a month of recognizing all that has shaped us. It is still a celebration, but one of all that has come before and all that is yet to come.
The realization and revelation of the joy January brings can be likened to the beloved story we have just read or seen on stage or screen for the umpteenth time, “A Christmas Carol.” Like Scrooge who learns the joy of redemption, we also go back to many new years’ past leaving any disappointment behind. We revel in the new year that is present ready to begin again; and in that, the promise of what the new year yet to be will hold for us.
My friend, Wendy always had a fun party in January, something we looked forward to with great anticipation. She invited guests to come in extremely casual dress (a few even wore pajamas left over from
Christmas that had as much style as the ugly sweaters that are popular each year) and to bring an attractively wrapped gift...but herein lies the ruse. Wendy wanted us to make our gift look so enticing that everyone would want it out of curiosity and gluttony. The caveat was what was written on Wendy’s invitation. “Bring something you got for the holi days that you don’t like, don’t want, don’t need, and positively hate.” Once the party was underway and all the wrapped goodies had been accounted for, she staged an old-fashioned Yankee Swap. The first person to have at it picked their gift, opened it, usually made a face, and then the next person took their turn. They could either keep what they had chosen from the pile or exchange it for the gift the first person got. This went on amidst much laughter until the lucky final person got to select what they wanted from everything that had been opened.
No, it’s not rocket science, but it’s a great excuse for a party in January and gets everyone interacting, laughing, and talking...and you get an unwanted “gift.” Actually, January is an unwanted gift of sorts. Yes, it momentarily brings people down from the “high” of holiday parties, food, family, and frivolity, but at the same time it gives gifts. It gives you the realization that yes, you have made that revolution around the sun once again and are here to stare at your own blank canvas and tentatively pick up your brush and get going. It gives you the gift of choosing to make resolutions or just marching headlong into the new year and taking it as it comes. And most of all, January gives you the drama of leafless trees bending in the landscape, creating their own pictures of cold winds and falling snow and children feeling none of the cold as they sled, skate, and snowboard, enjoying the moment without worrying about the future.
Happy 2025 to all!
A Year for Transformation
Crystal Cobert Giddens, LE
In a world that’s often busy, demanding, and full of distractions, it’s easy to forget the basics of taking care of ourselves. Luckily, a couple of loving changes in our daily habits can lead to a profound shift in our physical and emotional well-being.
Sleep Hygiene
It’s no secret that sleep is the cornerstone of health, yet many of us still struggle to get the rest we truly need. Sleep affects everything from our mood to our immune system, energy levels, and cognitive abilities. In a society where “hustle” is often glorified, getting enough rest can feel like a luxury, but in reality, it’s a necessity.
To create a peaceful, restorative sleep routine, it’s important to start by setting a consistent bedtime and wake-up time. This helps regulate the body’s internal clock, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up feeling refreshed.
Creating a bedtime routine is extremely helpful to those of us that have a hard time winding down.
Try setting an alarm on your phone to remind you to “dis c onnect” 90 minutes be fore bedtime. (It helps… I’ve had to do it myself.)
Cleansing your face, flossing and brushing your teeth, put ting on nice jammies and getting into a freshly made bed will become cues to tell your body to wind down and relax.
By making sleep a priority and establishing a few, simple routines, you can feel more rested, and ready to tackle each new day.
Moving Your Body
Exercise is not just about look ing a certain way—it’s about honoring your body and giving it the love and movement it deserves. Regular physical ac tivity boosts mood, reduces stress, and improves overall health, in cluding heart health, bone strength, and flexibility. The benefits of exercise are undeniable, but how we approach it matters just as much as the activity itself.
col orful fruits and vegetables not only nourishes the body but also en hances mood, supports immunity, and increases energy levels. The more variety you include in your meals, the more nutrients your body receives, so think of each meal as an opportunity to "eat the rain bow."
A diet full of bright, fresh produce—think leafy greens, berries, oranges, red peppers, and sweet potatoes—provides a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health. Eating a variety of colors ensures that you're getting a wide array of nutrients, each with its own unique benefit. For instance, green vegetables like spinach and kale are high in fiber and iron, while orange foods like carrots and pumpkins are packed with vitamin A, essential for vision and skin health.
There’s also something inherently joyful about creating meals that are both beautiful and nourishing. The act of preparing and then sitting down and enjoying that meal is an act of love…to yourself and others.
Experiences and Building Relationships
In our consumer-driven world, it’s easy to get caught up in the desire for more-more things, more stuff, more success. However, when it comes to true happiness and fulfillment, research con sistently shows that ex pe riences and relationships are far more im portant than material pos sessions.
Perhaps it’s time to reconsider how we spend our time. Rather than accumulating things, let’s invest in the p eo ple around us, the relationships that nourish our hearts, and the experiences that fill our lives with meaning.
Remember Sunday dinners?
Birthday parties? Walks in the park? Book Clubs, actual phone calls on weekends? Let’s bring those back please?
It’s January, 2025…wow! This is a perfect time to begin adopting habits that support a healthier, happier, and more connected life.
Exercise doesn’t have to be intense or time-consuming to be effective. Start small, with something that you enjoy. A gentle morning stretch, a walk through the park, the goal is to move your body in a way that feels good to you. The key is consistency, not intensity.
Exercise is also a wonderful way to reconnect with yourself. It offers time to tune into how your body feels and what it needs. Let this be the year to embrace movement as a way of nurturing your body—not punishing it—and enjoy the sense of empowerment that comes from simply moving and breathing.
Adding More Colors to Your Plate
What you eat plays a profound role in how you feel. A diet rich in
Small, intentional changes can set the tone for a year of growth, well ness, and love. Start where you are, and take one step at a time. Take one baby step at a time. Every choice you make, no matter how small, can bring you closer to your physical and emotional wellness goals this year.
2025 is a fresh start, a brand new year. So, cheers to you and your loved ones and here’s to a year filled with love, health, and vitality. You’ve got this!
xoxo ~ Crystal FACES of Saratoga triliftsaratoga.com
CULINARY DESTINATIONS: Saranac Lake
By Chef Armand Vanderstigchel
Nestled in the Adirondack Mountains is the quaint beautiful town of Saranac Lake, which many consider as the Winter Carnival headquarters of the North-East. It is located 15 minutes from the Olympic town of Lake Placid and known for the famous Ice Castle during the Saranac Lake Winter Carnival, which has been a tradition since 1897 and grown into a 10-day festival that includes sports, parades and fire works on the shore of Lake Flower’s Pontic Bay from January 31st-Febuary 9th 2025.
Before Saranac Lake became the popular outdoor recreation and tourism destination, it was once a world-famous health resort and center for scientific research thanks to the fresh clean air and Dr Livingston in the 1870s, who started a suc cessful tuberculosis sanatorium.
Driving north on I-87 and exiting off on Keene Valley, the road revels a blend of Birch tree lined streams, hiking trail points, mountaineer shops and small eateries along the way. The winter Olympic town of Lake Placid soon becomes apparent as Olympic training centers reveal its proximity.
We stopped at Twigs Gallery on Cascade Road to purchase local Maple Syrup, which is also a paradise for antique shoppers and those looking to decorate their cabin or vaca tion home “Adirondack style” with great snow shoe collections. I perceived a delicious waft of bakery goods in the corner area of the store. Upon investigation I learned the existence of a commissary bakery owned by the Lake Placid brewery and its sister breweries” Big Slide” of Lake Placid and “River Trails Beerworks” of Saranac Lake. A quick peak into the bakery revealed racks of fresh Hamburger Buns ready for distribution and a camera-shy baker.
We decided on lunch at its commissioner around the corner known as the popular “Big Slide”Brewhouse. There is ample parking in the back to accommodate the hordes of tourists in the weekend. The brewhouse enjoys a beautiful interior design to induce comfort on the visitor and the open kitchen boasts a wood-burning Pizza oven churning out creative pies. General manager Anthony Espinoza is a welcoming host along with the friendly and beer-knowledgeable team members.
The beer is mostly brewed b efore your eyes which i ncludes a barrel-aging program utilizing Bourbon, red Wine, Gin, and fresh oak barrels to age the brews. A special fermentation room includes the sour and wild-fermented beers.
C hef Alex Bush sources local ingre dients as displayed on a poster on the wall while pastry Chef Luke Ayres, as fore-mentioned churns out Burger Buns, Rolls, Pizza Dough and Pastries for Brunch and other locations. Aiden Strayer is the brewmaster.
A flight of beers which included a variety of styles such as Berliner Weisse, Foggy Goggles (a favorite), Amber Rye, Dubbel Vision and Uncle Red, the latter a Belgian style Flanders beer-very good. A delicious sour Beer to try is the “Summit Sour.” The food menu is unique and off the beaten path from the usual brewpub menus. For starters we enjoyed the perfectly executed Sweet Potato Hummus and crispy Pork Belly Bites over Wonton shells. The Pizza of choice was “the Boomer,” layered with Crème Fraiche, Dutch Knuckle Cheese, local Mushrooms, Kale, Fennel Pollen, and Bal samic glaze-outstanding and creative! Desserts are homemade and we acquired a fondness for the Vegan Carrot Cake produced with Coconut Milk. Upon leaving we were pressed to visit the new sister restaurant “River trail Brew Works” in Saranac Lake which is stunning by design and following the same Beer brew/food menu standards and commitment.
Upon entering Saranac Lake, we checked in at Hotel Saranac, a now Curio collection by Hilton yet formerly owned and operated by Paul Smith’s College and a training facility for culinary stu dents of the college. The hotel closed in 2013 and underwent a $35 million renovation to open in 2018. It is on the National Register of Historic Places. A brisk walk in down-town followed with stops at the beautiful lakeside park and
a visit to Noris Village market which is a onestop market for local produce, artisanal health products and a café with great Coffee, Pastries, and healthy Vegetable bowls. Around the corner
we visited River Trail Brew Beerworks for pictures and a Pumpernickel Porter beer.
Hotel Saranac hosts the “Campfire grill” downstairs. Following the Adirondack Cuisine trail concept of local creativity, the cuisine is prepared in an open kitchen. Upon seating a cast iron skillet of Cornbread follows. We ordered the homemade Potato Chips with Beet crème fraiche and Pork Belly with charred Brussel Sprouts as appe tizers. In addition to the smoked Wings we tried, the Pork Belly is housesmoked and melts in your mouth. For entrees the Shrimp étouffée and the local Trout with whipped Parsnip puree-delicious. For dessert the homemade Chocolate hazelnut semifreddo hit the spot. We purchased their famous Campfire Burger for the ride home the next day. Upstairs is the Great Hall bar which offers a full bar with great cocktails, beautiful seating and access to the balcony overlooking downtown.
Saranac Lake is slated to become the next hottest Adirondack tourist des tination to be. We hope you agree on your next road-trip.
Big Slide Brewhouse- above and below
Campfire
Noris Village Market - above
Month of January - Glens Falls
• “N ew Beginnings” Jan. 18-Feb.22, Reception Sat. Jan.18. Call for Art: drop off Sunday Jan. 12, 12-4pm
• NCA 2nd Fl. Gallery, 42 Ridge St. Glens Falls: Lynn Shanks, original art work, Jan. 6-Mar.29
• Queensbury Hotel Mezzanine Gallery, 88 Ridge St. Glens Falls: “Winter Show” January-April
More info visit: www.north countryarts.org. NCA Gallery #120, 71 Lawrence St. Glens Falls, hours Thurs-Sat. 12-5
January 1-18 Schenectady
Chroma Comfort: A Cozy Art Collection. A curated collection of art and artists that emphasize warmth and coziness, through a vibrant use of color and texture. This exhibition features pieces that evoke feelings of comfort and nostalgia, making this art ideal for personal spaces or envi ronments where a welcoming atmosphere is desired. Featuring the artwork of: Andy Moran; Beth Taylor; Julia Durgee; Lyndsay Grimes; Maura Marcks and SepiaLepus. On exhibit through January 18, 2024. Bear and Bird Boutique + Gallery, 160 Jay Street M • Schenectady, New York 12305. Call or Text: 518-227-1145
January 1 - February 1 Clifton Park
The Blooming Artist Gallery & Instruction is pleased to present our annual exhibit, Holiday Salon. This sensational show will close 2024 and open 2025. Featuring the works of all local artists, original pieces of all shapes and sizes will adorn our gallery walls, pedestals, and shelves. This ex hibit will include a vast array of mediums, sub jects, and styles– something surely for everyone! This show will remain on exhibit until February 01, 2025. The Blooming Artist, 675 Grooms Rd, Clifton Park, NY
January 1 Troy
Bach at New Year’s - A Baroque Con certo Showcase. The Berkshire Bach Society presents Bach at New Year’s: The Six 'Brandenburg Concertos', an event that has been a holi day tradition since 1993. Ninetime Grammy Award winner and Artistic Director Eugene Drucker leads the Berkshire Bach Ensemble in the iconic works that started it all. Join Berkshire Bach for an evening of great music and dazzling performances and start your New Year on a high note. January 1, 2025. Time: 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Troy Savings Bank Music Hall, 30 Second Street, Troy, NY 12180
January 1-18 Schenectady
JANUARY EVENTS
January 5 Saratoga Springs Super 400. We're not going to pre tend that this original power trio counts as folk music, but we are thrilled to bring them to the Caffe Lena stage because their deep-hearted songs are fabulous, they love the room, and wow do they know how to connect with an audience! They had a blast performing two sold-out shows here this fall (the Neil Young Tribute and the Beatles Caffe) and are very excited to bring Super 400’s original music to our stage for the very first time. Sunday, January 5, 2025 · 8 - 9:30pm EST. Doors at 7:30pm. Caffe Lena, 47 Phila Street Saratoga Springs, NY
January 7 Delmar
Witches Circle: Monthly Tea & Class. Each month, like-minded souls are invited to gather as Psychic Witch Kat of The Sterling Sage brews herbal tea, casts a ritual circle, and leads a discussion on a new witchy topic. Join us to learn about Spellcrafting, Wiccan Traditions & Practices, Metaphysical Artisanry and so much more! Whether you are drawn here by a mere curiousity in the profound, unexplained, or desire to create beautiful bespoke items to enrich your craft, become the ultimate giftgiver and deepen your skills and knowledge of the arcane to fully embrace your higher self, all will feel welcome and enriched at these gatherings. Don't miss out on this magical experience! See you there! Tuesday, January 7, 2025 · 6 - 7:30pm. 234 Kenwood Ave, 234 Kenwood Avenue Delmar, NY 12054
Chroma Comfort: A Cozy Art Collection. A curated collection of art and artists that emphasize warmth and coziness, through a vibrant use of color and texture. This ex hibition features pieces that evoke feelings of comfort and nostalgia, making this art ideal for personal spaces or environments where a welcoming atmosphere is desired. Featuring the artwork of: Andy Moran; Beth Taylor; Julia Durgee; Lyndsay Grimes; Maura Marcks and SepiaLepus. On exhibit through January 18, 2024. Bear and Bird Boutique + Gallery, 160 Jay Street M • Schenectady, New York 12305. Call or Text: 518-227-1145
January 10 Glens Falls
Ariel Posen. The Solo Tour II. Ariel Posen stands as a beacon of artistic ingenuity, transcending conventional boundaries with an unparalleled musical vision that defies categorization. At the core of his creative odyssey lies an unwavering commitment to artistic expression, weaving together a sonic tapestry that resonates with profound authenticity and emotional depth. His music is a testament to the boundless possibilities of artistic exploration, seamlessly melding elements of heartland rock & roll, electrified Ameri cana, blue-eyed soul, R&B, and Beatles-inspired pop into a singular, captivating sound. Show Time:7:00 PM. Doors open :6:00 PM. The Park Theater, 14 Park Street, Glens Falls, NY 12801, 518-792-1150
January 11 Albany
Needle Felted Mushroom Workshop. Work with local artist Mallory Zondag and learn how to sculpt with wool through that art of needle felting. During this three hour workshop you will learn how to work with wire to create an armature, how to cover it with wool, how to use the tools to form the wool into some fantas tic fungi and finally how to mix and blend colors to bring your wooly mushroom to life! Saturday, January 11, 2025 · 10am - 1pm.
Shaker Heritage Society, 25 Meeting House Road Albany, NY 12211
JANUARY EVENTS
January 11 Saratoga Springs
Old Friends Beckoned/New Sounds Reckoned. Steckler / Ikawa / Plaxico / Lewis brings together four mighty jazz musicians with rich, intersecting histories. Their project, Old Friends Beckoned / New Sounds Reckoned (Skydeck), blends their considerable individual artistry into a collective voice through original compositions where personal prowess is set aside in favor of deeper collaboration. The result is a seamless, emotive sound that resonates with listeners. Saturday, January 11, 2025 · 8 - 10pm EST. Doors at 7:30pm. Caffe Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
January 11 Schenectady
Coffee Class 101: Home Brewing. Love coffee but feel like you could up your home brewing game? Kick start your coffee journey with this primer class. From bean basics to brewing methods, we’ll get down to the science behind the best cup of joe and explore different ways to make your best-cupdreams come true. In this class we’ll discuss selecting the right roast for you, the importance of grinding, and how to brew using three different methods: pour over, french press, and drip. Saturday, January 11, 2025 · 8:30 - 10am. Arthur's Market, 35 North Ferry Street Schenectady, NY 12305
January 11 Albany
The Wheel performs Pembroke Pines 5/22/77. Buckle up and shift into high gear with The Wheel, the Capital Region's winner of the “Listen Up” 2024 Favorite GD Cover Band Award. Known for their dynamic performances and deep connection with audiences, The Wheel takes listeners on a memorable journey through the iconic music of the Grateful Dead, infusing each song with their own driving, thoughtful, and expressive spin. January 10, 2025 · 8pm - January 11, 2025 · 12:30am. Lark Hall, 351 Hudson Avenue Albany, NY 12210
January 12 Saratoga Springs
The Capital Region's Premier Wedding Show. Join us for an unforgettable day filled with wedding inspiration, expert advice, and amazing vendors. Whether you're a bride-to-be, groom, or part of the wedding party, this event is the perfect place to plan your dream wedding. Discover the latest trends in wedding fashion, decor, and more. Don't miss out on this opportunity to meet top wedding professionals and make your special day truly unique. Mark your calendars for Sun, Jan 12, 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM at the Saratoga Springs City Center, 522 Broadway Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
January 12 Schuylerville
Take a Class at SCAC! Next class session starts January 5. We offer a variety of classes from intro to wheel throwing, handbuilding, and even 3-D printing with clay. Head to our website www.saratogaclayarts.org to see the full lineup of classes and to get signed up today! Saratoga Clay Arts Center, 167 Hayes Rd, Schuylerville, NY 12871
January 24-25 & 31-1 Lake George Funky Ice Fest — It's time once again to bring the FUNK. Visit the Grooviest Ice Bar in the Adirondacks and enjoy plenty of Handcrafted Cocktails made from Local Spirits, ADK Brewery Beer, Ice Sculptures, Food Specials, and much more! Entry is FREE and this is a family-friendly event. Jan. 24-25 & Jan.31-Feb.1, 2025 — Adirondack Pub & Brewery, 33 Canada St, Lake George, NY 12845
January 28 Saratoga Springs
January 24 Saratoga Springs
Nate Sabat & Rakish. Nate Sabat is well known to Caffe Lena audiences as the bassist for house favorite Mile Twelve. With upright bass as his sole instrument, Nate crafts wildly intricate arrangements. With original songs rooted in American folk music, he takes full advantage of the neverending variety of sounds and textures the bass has to offer. Friday, January 24, 2025 · 8 - 10pm EST. Doors at 7:30pm. Caffe Lena, 47 Phila Street Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
The Michael Mills Magic Show. He's back! After a four-month run of shows at Caffe Lena in 2024, magician Mills returns with an all-new show featuring jaw-dropping surprises, quick wit, and an unforgettable good time. Michael’s performance is playful, surprising, and packed with moments that will leave you laughing, amazed, and wondering if you can trust your own eyes. This show is the perfect way to hit pause on life's to-do list and just have a great time. Bring your curiosity—and someone to share the 'Did that really just happen?!' moments with! Tuesday, January 28, 2025 · 7 - 8:30pm EST. Doors at 6:30pm. Caffe Lena, 47 Phila Street Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
January 31 Lake George Open Call for Art for the 2026 Courthouse Gallery Exhibitions at the Lake George Arts Project: The Lake George Arts Project’s Courthouse Gallery presents six to eight exhibitions annually by national, regional, emerging, and established contemporary visual artists who work in all media. The mission of our gallery is to provide solo or two-person exhibition opportunities to emerging and professional artists, with preference given to work created within the last two years and to experimental or non-traditional work. there is no submission fee. The deadline for proposals is Friday, January 31, 2025, at 11:59 PM. For information please visit the Lake George Arts Project's website www.lakegeorgearts.org, to find the link to the guidelines.
January 31 Glens Falls
Comedy After Dark. Adam Mamawala is a stand-up comedian, actor and podcaster based out of New York City. He has appeared on Comedy Central, MTV, BET, Amazon Prime and SiriusXM, and both of his albums, Statistically More Relatable (2022) and One of the Good Ones (2017) debuted at #1 on the iTunes Comedy Charts. Most recently, Adam has toured as Dane Cook’s opener, performing at iconic venues such as The Met in Philadelphia and NYC’s Beacon Theatre.Fri Jan 31, 18 and over, Show time:8:00 PM, Doors open:7:00 PM. Adam Mamawala The Park Theater, 14 Park Street, Glens Falls, NY 12801, 518-792-1150
