Hudson Valley InterArts celebrated the grand opening and ribbon cutting of its state-of-the-art multi-arts center located at Jon Barrett Road in Patterson, NY, on May 10. Approximately 200 people, including Congressman Mike Lawler and the Brewster Chamber of Commerce, walked through the doors to enjoy an evening filled with excitement, community, and artistic inspiration.
Designed to provide transformative arts experiences for people of all abilities, Hudson Valley InterArts has become a beacon for creative, healing, and community arts. This vibrant spirit was showcased during the grand opening festivities. Guests explored the 15,000 square feet of dedicated arts space, including ceramics and painting studios, a music sound and podcasting studio, a movement studio, performing arts space, and gallery. Engaging demonstrations took place within the state-of-the-art studios, where classes are offered to students in painting, ceramics, drawing, drumming, singing, dancing, meditation, yoga, performance, crafts, and beyond. Attendees viewed murals and artworks by local artists, including the Creative Centering exhibition featuring wood–carved art by Eric Archer C. Dahlberg. It was an evening extraordinaire as people connected through works of art while enjoying food, drinks and live music by cellist Clarence Dow-Spielman.
In partnership with Community Based Services, Hudson Valley InterArts is uniquely positioned to address societal and public health challenges stemming from the loneliness epidemic, championing genuine connections, creative expression, and relationships that foster social and emotional well-being. This grand opening marked the beginning of a new chapter in our commitment to building a more inclusive and connected community through the arts. This mission was evident in the speeches given by Chief Executive Officer Vicki Sylvester, PH.D. and Congressman Mike Lawler.
“This center has not only established a space for artistic creation and inspiration but has also done so for those most vulnerable members of our society.”
CEO Vicki Sylvester Ph.D. echoed the mission of the Hudson Valley InterArts, which is to create a safe and inclusive environment that fosters community and relationships through artistic practices. “We are excited to offer professional artist-led classes that cater to all abilities, providing expressive outlets for people to lead meaningful and engaged lives,” she said.
As a meeting place for creating, inspiring, and exchanging artistic expression, Hudson Valley InterArts provides diverse programming for anyone in the community who would benefit from it. Several students of the InterArts Center spoke heartfelt words about their experiences being part of the InterArts community.
“I have been coming to the art center for over a year, and it makes me happy. I made a collage during art class, and it helps me express myself. I took a dance class, and it makes me feel like fireworks. I feel more confident, courageous, and powerful.”
As part of the ribbon cutting ceremony, Daniella and fellow students, Rosa, Yvette, and Anthony, performed a pop song written by them and other students with singer and songwriter Cassandra Kubinski, titled “You and Me Together.” The beat was uplifting, their performance infectious and had the whole audience clapping along.
This grand opening marks the beginning of a new chapter in our commitment to building more inclusive and connected communities through the arts. We invite people who think these services will benefit them to come and experience the transformative power of the arts at Hudson Valley InterArts Center. As a special invitation, InterArts is offering one free class with the use of code ARTS24 at check out.
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