Art Walk Kingston

Melissa Dvozenja-Thomas, Executive Director, Arts Mid-Hudson

Some of the best events in the Hudson Valley have come from friends sitting around chatting about programs they would like to see happen. This was the case for Art Walk Kingston. Eight years ago, two friends were chatting about art happenings in the area and realized there were no studio tours in an area that had a high volume of artists. After sending out a survey to the public with an overwhelmingly positive response, volunteers set out to make this tour available to everyone. This year’s tour, September 16 and 17 from 12:00 to 5:00 p.m., has 200 artists participating with more than 50 locations to visit and some special activities throughout the weekend.

If you have never been to a studio tour, it is an incredibly eye-opening experience. During the tour, visitors can chat with the artist in their private studio or gallery, learn about their work, and often experience the process of creation. Each person can plan their own route, so no encounter is the same.

Some of the unique opportunities within the tour include Ione’s 28th Annual Dream Festival: Kingston City of Dreams. Performances on Saturday and Sunday include a walking performance of sound, light, and dreamtime, as well as a Marathon of Dreamers featuring performances by China Blue, Donnaldson Brown, Ione, Lisa B Kelley, Henry Lowengard, Leaf Miller, Nor’Mask Man, Peter Wetzler, and Jaguar Mary X.

The Neighborhood Print Shop also welcomes visitors to see the new studio, watch printers at work, and have the opportunity to purchase artist’s proofs of the large linoleum block prints made in preparation for the Steamroller Print event. Over 26 artists will have their work represented.

During the tour, you may also meet ceramic artist Demetria Chappo who makes hand-sculpted home objects and sculptures with an emphasis on intricate surface details, organic and architectural form, and universal symbolism. Those interested in mixed-medium and paintings could chat with Patti Gibbons who credits the natural beauty of our area as the deepest inspiration in her artwork. Photographer Sikena Khadija is also inspired by our surroundings. Khadija strives to make a positive impact by raising awareness of environmental issues and fostering a deep appreciation for the natural world through her work.

Stephen Busch’s paintings are driven by spontaneity. He explains, “what I strive for is emotional experience formed into visual presence. My process is search, emotion, struggle, and passion.”

Ian von Miller, a furniture designer for the past twenty years, loves to incorporate paint for bursts of colors into his designs. He loves woodworking and problem-solving, making something that fits a unique space perfectly and functions flawlessly.

Physical maps are available throughout the city and at supporting locations like Rough Draft Bar and Books, Village Coffee and Goods, and Kingston Wine Company. This studio tour is a chance for artists to open their private studios to the public, allowing them an intimate look behind the finished product. Check out the map early and make your plans for this year’s event.

If you go:
Art Walk Kingston
Various Locations in Kingston, NY
September 16 & 17, 2023
12:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
www.artsmidhudson.org/artwalkkingston
Digital Map: map.artwalkkingston.com