Art in your backyard!

by Peggy Capper

It was just a few years ago that local businessman, Austin Dempsey, and local artist, Joe Gagnepain, brainstormed about an arts center in Batavia (see story page 10). Two years later Water Street Studios opened. On the heels of that development has come the auditorium addition to Batavia High School. The result was a spectacular theatre to rival the best theatres in the area. So spectacular, in fact, that it has taken on an institutional life of its own, called Batavia Fine Arts Centre, complete with a full-time director, Dominic Cattero. Last year’s Bulldog’s fundraiser was an adventure in commissioned art, involving many groups and individuals in the community. The artistically appointed “Bulldogs” adorned the streets with a pronouncement that Batavia is now a city of energy and art. Throughout the mild weather months residents gather at the newly renovated Peg Bond Performing Arts Pavilion for concerts, exhibits, and community events.

Recognizing that the arts have become a rallying point within the community, the Batavia Arts Council has been formed to help keep that energy moving forward. With a board of nine people they are just beginning to decide how the arts council can serve as a catalyst to advancing what is already being done and to answer needs of organizations and artists as necessary. “One of the (first) things we did was get involved with Art In Your Eye,” said Leigh Tracy, Batavia Arts Council Chairman. “We have a monthly BAM (Batavia Arts Council Mixer) focusing on marketing the arts in Batavia and discussing where our efforts are most needed.”

Beyond Batavia, the Tri-Cities have an abundance of cultural venues and activities for all to enjoy. Each of the Tri-Cities has a local art commission specifically tasked with enriching the art culture in their respective cities. From local artists and galleries, to festivals and award winning performances, there is a plethora of art. Here are just some of the many ways to find Art in Your Backyard…

Photo of the Water Street Studios’ main gallery during the Second Anniversary Show taken by Michael Barton, Indigo Photographic.