Winter Show Proves Village Arts Scene is Thriving

The Babylon Village Arts Council continues to promote the local artistic community and its second annual indoor art show at the Babylon Masonic Lodge drew an appreciate audience.

The show lured in a steady stream of visitors who viewed work from 11 different artists. The winter art show, which has grown since last year, is a complement to the two outdoor art shows held by Babylon Village Arts Council (BVAC) at Argyle Lake in the fall and spring.

Don Bartsch, a local painter and retired Babylon High School art teacher, said he was selling a steady stream of his watercolor prints during the event. He also displayed several larger framed original watercolor paintings of rural landscape scenes.

"Original art is selling more slowly this year, because of the economy," Bartsch explained. But that didn't stop the painters and photographers at the show from participating in the show, and as potter Jonathan Zamet explains, getting a following for your work is crucial.

"BVAC does a great job [promoting local arts]," says Zamet, who creates handmade stoneware and porcelain. He was selling mugs and bowls in deep shades of green, meant to be used as dishware in addition to art as they are all microwave and dishwasher safe.  

BVAC co-president Rose Ann Norman was happy with the turnout at the event held Saturday, March 12, saying the show this year was "excellent."

In addition to Bartsch and Zamer, the other artists displaying work were: Max Gottfried, Ned Butterfield, Paolo B. Bianchi, Deb DiDomencio, Bill Kuchler, Nancy Keating, Melissa Maiello, Ellen Nichols and Tiqvah Terroade.

The next BVAC art show will take place on May 16 at Argyle Park. The council also has several artist workshops planned, including a watercolor painting demonstration at the Conklin House on May 12 at 6:45 p.m.

Workshops, like all BVAC events, are free, but space is limited: to sign up and for more information visit babylonvillagearts.org.