Art Gallery Set For Grand Opening

By Jennifer L. Warren
J_Warren@hvpress.net

(Newburgh) - Art is once again finding its way to the City of Newburgh. This time, in the form of a brand new art gallery on Anne Street.

The independently run gallery, 35 feet by 65 feet, is partially intended to be a cultural resource for neighboring Safe Harbor tenants. Leading the charge of the gallery inception is Patricia Haggerty-Wenc, Executive Director of the Cornerstone Residence of Safe Harbors of the Hudson. The Cornerstone, part of a trifecta Haggerty-Wenc vision that includes the gallery, is expected to also feature a cybercafe along with Ritz Theater in the near future. All three offerings are not only intended for the enjoyment of Newburgh locals as well as growth of its commerce but the entire region. It is hoped the gallery will attract folks from even further.

“Short-term we want to be a cultural and artistic resource for Newburgh as well as a supportive community for local artists,” said Virginia Walsh, Director of the gallery, who has co-owned two other galleries in Manhattan as well as been an assistant coordinator for interdisciplinary arts at S.U.N.Y. Manhattan College. “Long-term we hope to be a formidable gallery in the area, showcasing a wide, diverse body of artists’ work from all over the country.”

That talent will first have an opportunity to be viewed at the end of the month when an opening, including several different artists and genres will be featured. Walsh is excited about distinguishing the gallery as a place that shows a wide spectrum of art on a rotating exhibition basis. That commitment can be expected in January’s inaugural display.

“We want the first show to be a group one,” revealed Walsh. “This way we will be able to showcase as much regional talent, known and not so known, as we can at one time.”

In addition to ongoing exhibits and openings, Walsh said the gallery had further goals to include guest lecturers, symposiums and demonstrations.

In the meantime, Walsh is on the lookout for any artists seeking to have their work displayed at the January opening. Interested parties may contact her at 562-6940, extension 119.

Expected hours of operation for the gallery are: Thursday: 9-1, Friday: 9-5, Saturday: 11-4:30 or by appointment. Walsh is hopeful that the gallery will flourish once word gets out. Precautions have been taken to ensure safety to its patrons; it exists in a very well lit area with twenty-four hour, seven day a week security as well as close proximity to the police station. Additionally, vestiges of culture are slowly popping up; two impressive antique stores are just around the corner as is Macchiatos, a quaint Italian cafe, both on Liberty Street. Despite the strong evidences of revitalization that surround the gallery, Walsh is well aware of some of the challenges that confront her.

“We don’t have great visibility here on Ann Street; plus, street advertising is going to be a problem because of city restrictions,” pointed out Walsh. “As a result, we’re going to make up for it with the great amount of freedom we have to offer variety in our exhibits.” Reflecting further and smiling, she adds, “I’m also going to have to real network in Newburgh as well as all over the area to make things happen here; it will happen, but just like with any other new business, it’s going to take time, patience and a lot of work.”