Open Studios

It’s a common response spectators have when viewing a painting or piece of abstract pottery – how does someone do this?  Questioning the inspiration one has for creative work is one way to address their artistry, but peeking in on the creative process is an altogether different take on their craft.

Artists in Buffalo, a not-for-profit organization that networks local artists and craftspeople, will open their doors to the artist’s process and workspace.  The group’s annual Holiday Open Studios and Galleries will take place Friday, Nov. 30 from 5 to 9 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 1 and Sunday, Dec. 2 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Last year, over 100 participating painters, ceramicists, photographers, jewelers, potters, knitters and more met and connected with art supporters and collectors.  This is a one-of-a-kind way to converse and discuss artwork, see the artist’s working environment and purchase pieces for the holiday season.  The “open door” policy is one that painter and Insite Gallery curator Elisabeth Samuels particularly appreciates.

The event allows casual and serious fans to “become more aware of the cultural and artistic richness of our community,” Samuels says.  “We need access in order to be informed, both as audience and patron.”

She says that while the region may be known as one that’s welcoming and successful for artists of all types, there’s still more in the way of publicity and promotion that can be done to boost the area’s image.

“Our community and the public in general needs to be more aware of the quality of artwork being produced in this area and the large number of accomplished artists that live within our community,” she says.  “This combination of quality and quantity seemed to add up to a significant way that the Buffalo region should be defining itself.  We certainly have some of the essential components to be an ‘Arts Destination.’”

Artists in Buffalo was founded in 2001 by a group of artists looking to boost regionalism in the community.  Today, the organization distributes a directory of local artists and art-related businesses in addition to running Open Studios and Galleries events.  All of these efforts help boost the cultural thumbprint within the region and outside of it.

“Locally, we need to realize that art surrounds us in our community and should also do so in our lives,” says Samuels.  “Nationally, the arts should be a significant part of Buffalo’s identity.”

For more information on participating artists and maps, visit Artists in Buffalo or call Catherine Gillespie at 716.881.2199 or Elisabeth Samuels at 716.884.9410 for details.

Photo of Catherine Gillespie’s ceramics courtesy Artists in Buffalo.

Posted by on 11/13 at 12:19 PM