A Voice from the Eastern Door

Foothills Art Society Plans an Exciting Summer and Fall

New Director Brings in Energy in a New Space

Moving into an airy, spacious, and well-lit building, the Foothills Art Society (FAS) is taking on new projects and their calendar is full of exciting upcoming exhibits, shows and classes. The FAS is a not-for-profit organization committed to 'Enriching Lives Through Art in Our Community.' Believing 'art enhances the physical, economic, and cultural foundations of all communities.'

When a visitor walks into their new space, their saying of, "We believe Art brings people together and creates a sense of belonging. We believe Art can drive economic development and increase business," is true in every sense of the word. They are reaching out to be more inclusive to the North Country and especially to their neighbors – Akwesasne.

Indian Time had the opportunity to talk to the new FAS executive director and their marketing director – each brings a sense of energy and direction to the gallery.

Brenton Dumas, Executive Director of the Foothills Art Gallery told Indian Time he started working at the gallery in early May, saying, "I've always been interested in art. For the past couple years, I worked in human services, and it was a very emotional line of work. I realized that I'm 36 years old and I want to spend the next 36 years doing something that is more fun, interesting – something I have a passion for."

Lorraine Cartier, Marketing Director for the Foothills Art Society said, "We had a number of applicants, it was very competitive. I was impressed with Dumas' connection to each of the interviewers. He spoke directly to us.

Dumas added, "During my interview, I was so inspired by all the art in the gallery – the venue itself. And the Foothills board members created a very welcoming and inclusive setting."

Dumas had just stepped into his role as executive director when the Lamitie Robideau-King Juried Student Art Show was in full development. The juried student art show features artwork created by middle school and high school students from Salmon River, Brushton-Moira, Chateaugay and Malone Central School students. The closing reception on Thursday, June 1, 2023, from 4pm to 7pm. The gallery and student reception is fully open for the public to enjoy.

Dumas was excited to share their plans for the reminder of 2023 – which includes an Indigenous Art Show in October. Both Dumas and Cartier plan to visit the July 2nd, Akwesasne Juried Art Market at Generations Park. They are actively looking for artists to participate, artist can choose to visit the gallery in Malone, if they prefer.

Cartier said, "We already have two artists visit the gallery, Vaughn Phillips and Charlotte King. We have a large, exquisite painting by Charlotte King hanging in our gallery right now. We are looking forward to other meeting other Mohawk artists, to show their work as well. Of course, the big show will be in October."

Dumas said, "On Friday, we are presenting a deserving art student with a $500.00 scholarship at the Robideau Lamitie-King Juried Art Exhibit. We'll also have Stewart's Ice cream and appetizers from Berkshire Farms, both graciously donated for this reception."

In closing both Dumas and Cartier said they are excited for the Akwesasne Juried Art Market adding, "We will be there on July 2nd to hit up artists, have your business cards ready!"

 

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