Description:

A trip to Woodstock is synonymous with the arts, and both locals and visitors can be found enjoying some time indoors at the Woodstock Artists Association and Museum. Located in the center of town, this museum is a community anchor and, since 1919, has been committed to collecting and exhibiting work by area artists.

Being the showcase museum in Woodstock, N.Y., known as the “Colony of Arts” makes WAAM more than just a local exhibition space. Talent runs high, show jurors are demanding and critical and the expectation is that the museum displays will not only engage guests, but also stimulate them to look at the world with a new perspective. The Youth Exhibition Space (YES!) ensures that younger people’s visits to the museum are relevant.

This summer features guest artists discussing their work in the “Dialogues” series. Next up is the July 12 showing of “My Brooklyn.” The documentary addresses gentrification issues and filmmaker Kelly Anderson will be on hand for a Q&A afterward. ($10 general, $7 members) As a newcomer to Brooklyn, Anderson herself is considered a “gentrifier”but it’s the struggle of the Fulton Mall that grips viewers. The African-American and Caribbean commercial district does not reflect the desires of the new, trendy residents in search of high-rise housing and retail chains. The conflicts between the two are continuous and the documentary struggles with the choices that face not just a neighborhood in Brooklyn, but many communities in our country.

On July 19 the annual Jury Group show will be displayed through mid-August. This show allows local artists to exhibit their work in a truly beautiful, well-respected gallery without having to travel far from the 12498 zip code.

And what would be the end of summer without the Annual Woodstock Fine Art Auction? This year it’s happening on Aug. 31 and anyone with an eye for the innovative, who wants to support the museum’s efforts, is seeking a great deal or who just enjoys a great people-watching event, should be sure to attend. This auction features art from private collections and estates and is from 19th – 20th century contemporary artists, both national and international. Bidding is live, by phone and even on-line if you can’t make it to the museum, or wish to remain anonymous. Consignments are already being taken – for more info email auction@woodstockart.org

Stop by. Be inspired. Be appreciative. Be in Woodstock.

Please be aware of the museum’s hours:  Sunday, Monday and Thursday noon- 5 p.m., Friday and Saturday noon – 6 p.m.,
Closed Tuesday and Wednesday.