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SUMMARY:August 7 First Fridays Artswalk
DESCRIPTION:The First Fridays Artswalk in downtown Pittsfield continues its 5-month season (May through September) on Friday\, August 7 from 5 to 8 pm as part of the City of Pittsfield’s First Fridays at Five. \n  \nParticipating venues on Friday\, August 7 include Clock Tower Artists\, Framework by Downtown Pittsfield\, Inc.\, Hotel on North\, Indie Readery and Records\, Lichtenstein Center for the Arts\, O.U.R Resurge\, Sanctum Gallery\, Solarium Plant Shop\, and the Soda Chef. \n  \nDownload the Downtown Pittsfield App in the App Store or on Google Play to follow a virtual walking tour of art on your cell phone. \n  \nJoin the Clock Tower Artists at 75 South Church Street on Friday\, August 7\, 5 to 8 pm\, to explore fresh artwork\, meet the makers\, and celebrate summer creativity. \n  \nStroll the historic third floor and connect with over 20 professional artists working across a wide range of mediums. Whether you’re an art lover\, collector\, or curious newcomer\, you’re sure to find something that sparks your imagination. Enjoy original artwork\, creative conversations\, and a warm\, welcoming community of artists in the heart of Pittsfield. \n  \nArtists include Karen Carmean\, Deborah H. Carter\, Lucie Castaldo\, Joan Palano Ciolfi\, Randy Foulds\, Marion Grant\, Nava Grunfeld\, Caroline Kelley\, Mollie Kellogg\, Eric Korenman\, Bruce Laird\, Lisa Loustaunau\, Mark Mellinger\, Linda Petrocine\, Sally Tiska Rice\, Ilene Richard\, Audrey Shachnow\, Stanley Singer\, Ariel Smith\, Sharon Walthew\, Stefanie Weber\, and Carmel Wilson. \n  \nCATA’s “I Am a Part of Art” will be on view at the Lichtenstein Center for the Arts\, 28 Renne Avenue\, now through August 28\, 2026. \n  \n“I Am a Part of Art” is one of the largest annual exhibits by artists with disabilities in the country—featuring paintings\, drawings\, photographs\, sculptures\, and more by over 250 artists with disabilities from across Berkshire County\, MA and Columbia County\, NY. In their works\, created in Community Access to the Arts’ year-round programs\, CATA artists express their unique perspectives and draw us into their world\, revealing the power of art to nurture inclusion and connection. \n  \nOn view at the Lichtenstein Center for the Arts\, now through August 28\, Wednesday through Friday\, 11 am to 3 pm\, and by appointment. \n  \nCATA artwork is available for sale and supports CATA artists. \n  \nSanctum Gallery at 148 North Street will feature “The Spiritual Essence of Water” – The Art of Gail Gelburd and Tenzin Wangchuk\, August 7 through August 30. There will be an opening reception with the artists during the August 7th Artswalk from 5 to 8 pm. \n  \nWater has long symbolized life\, transformation\, healing\, and renewal. “The Spiritual Essence of Water” explores these universal themes through an immersive exhibition featuring the artwork of Berkshire artist Gail Gelburd and Tibetan artist Tenzin Wangchuk. \n  \nGelburd’s richly layered mixed-media works\, inspired by waterfalls in the Berkshires and around the world\, combine photography\, encaustic\, sculpture\, illuminated installations\, and fabric to evoke water’s beauty\, power\, and spiritual presence. Her work invites viewers to reflect on the connection between humanity and the natural world. \n  \nComplementing the exhibition are sacred Tibetan sand paintings by Tenzin Wangchuk\, a former senior monk and artist for His Holiness the Dalai Lama. His intricate works are rooted in the spiritual traditions of Tibetan Buddhism and have been shared with the community through his long friendship and artistic collaboration with Gelburd. \n  \nPresented by Sanctum Gallery\, a program of Healing Hearts Sanctuary\, the exhibition will also feature artist talks\, guided meditations\, music\, and other community programs throughout the month. Admission is free\, and all are welcome. \n  \nBerkshire Art Center (BAC) will host “Kid Artwork Across All Ages\, from the Summer in the Studios Program at Berkshire Art Center” at Framework by Downtown Pittsfield\, Inc. located at 437 North Street. \n  \nThere will be an opening during the August 7 First Fridays at Five from 5 to 8 pm. \n  \nSolarium Plant Shop\, 46 West Street\, will feature “Layered”- Visionary Alchemy of Paper\, Scissors & Glue by Margo Serina during the Artswalk on Friday\, August 7 from 5 to 8 pm. \n  \nMargo Serina of Sacred Bridge Studio is a Berkshire native and life-long artist who explores with various mediums to create art while gravitating towards collage and watercolor as two of her favorite forms of expression. Her work features contrast\, textures\, and vibrant color combinations as well as the use of mixed media and elements of nature. \n  \n“Layered” – Visionary Alchemy of Paper\, Scissors & Glue is a collection of collages Margo has created while exploring and allowing the paper she cuts and collects to come together organically in her creative process with both simplicity and articulation of the elements involved to create multi layered and cohesive images. She finds this process to be both meditative and highly therapeutic. \n  \nHotel on North\, 297 North Street\, will feature Autumn Phoenix Photography for the month of August. \n  \nAutumn Phoenix is a professional artist and photographer. Her work spans landscapes\, animals\, cityscapes\, and portraiture. Her photographs are defined by unique lighting and vibrant color to capture moments that might otherwise go unnoticed. She is inspired by her grandfather. She views each photograph as a “treasure chest” to preserve experiences long after they pass. \n  \nThe show will be on view on Friday\, August 7\, from 5 to 8 pm during the Artswalk. \n  \nO.U.R. Resurge\, 119 Fenn Street\, will feature the “Awamu Artist Co-op” with artists Ashley Sposato\, Matt Brinton\, Nicole Fecteau\, and Rochely DeJesus Melendez. “Awamu” means “Let’s go together” in Luganda! \n  \nThere will be a reception with the artists on Friday\, August 7\, 5 to 8 pm\, including a poetry reading by Ashley Sposato\, a book signing with Matthew Brinton\, a meal\, and a table for kids to make art. \n  \nAshley Sposato is a chronically ill poet and mixed-media artist based in the Berkshires. Through her project Idyll & Wild\, she explores love\, longing\, grief\, and transcendence with myth\, ancient history\, and the natural world. \nOn a good day\, you can find her by the riverside calling to birds and buried in ancient Greek poetry. We won’t talk about other days (those are reserved for poems). More conventionally\, she can be found on Substack as Idyll & Wild\, and on Instagram as idyllwildpoetry. \nAshley is published in journals by “The Way Back To Ourselves” and is Pushcart Prize nominated. She is currently working on her inaugural book of poetry\, Hymns for the Orchard. \n  \nMatthew Brinton’s artwork and writing are inspired by the experiences that have shaped his life. On the page and on the canvas\, he attempts to express his understanding of the human condition. Matt’s hope is that by being honest about his experiences\, he can connect with a universal truth and remind others that they are not alone in their struggle to find meaning and purpose. \n  \n​Matt’s drawings are done in a realistic style but often incorporate a painterly and classical linear style. The drawings of landscape and still life he creates are inspired by the sheer beauty of the subjects. His portraiture mainly consists of historical figures who have impacted his life. In his portrayal of these figures\, the main focus is to capture their inner spiritual lives. \n  \nNicole Fecteau’s art is an expression of the interconnectedness of life\, the unending tapestries of stories we weave as communal beings deeply connected to each other and also profoundly integrated within our natural world. Utilizing fabric\, colored pencils\, and embroidery\, Nicole strives to portray various allusions to life and faith as a journey that brings us deeper into our shared experience\, inviting us into more heartfelt levels of compassion and mercy. \n  \nRochely DeJesus Melendez is growing in her art mediums and expanding her vision – she feels that our lives are shifting so much. These seismic oceanic currents we all feel generationally\, environmentally\, historically\, and politically can be funneled and expressed through art in ways that invite curiosity and shift mindsets. \n  \nIndie Readery and Records\, 314 North Street\, will feature a collection of collage and painting on unconventional surfaces by Brent Ridge now through September 1. Stop by during the August 7 Artswalk from 5 to 8 pm. \n  \nBrent uses patterned recycled papers and fabrics in place of traditional canvas and paper. These works depict the post-industrial landscape through a tension of decay and renewal of image\, material\, and abstraction. Ridge is a Berkshires-based artist whose work delves into themes of industrial decay\, natural beauty\, and human resilience. A local artist\, originally from Flint\, MI\, Brent has an artistic history in NYC\, abroad\, and in Boston before resettling in the Berkshires. He is currently the art teacher at Reid Middle School in Pittsfield\, where he inspires young artists. \n  \nDowntown Pittsfield\, Inc. and First Fridays Artswalk will feature Maru Domínguez as the August “Art in the Park” artist. Maru will present a special “Faces of Pittsfield Community Art Experience” for the August 7 First Fridays at Five from 5 to 8 pm. \n  \nFaces of Pittsfield is a community photography project that celebrates the people who live\, work\, and visit Pittsfield through the art of portraiture. This August\, we invite you to become part of the artwork itself. \n  \nTogether\, we will create a collaborative community portrait by painting and decorating our own faces and self-portraits\, celebrating the diversity\, stories\, and connections that make Pittsfield unique. Through art\, creativity\, and shared expression\, we will build a collective piece that reflects who we are as a community. \n  \nCome create\, connect\, and celebrate with us. All ages and artistic abilities are welcome! \n  \nBe part of the portrait. Be part of the story. Be part of Pittsfield. \n  \nMaru Domínguez is a photographer\, artist\, and community organizer based in the Berkshires\, MA. Her work centers on storytelling\, community building\, and creating meaningful connections through art and culture. \n  \n“Art in the Park” is supported in part by the Feigenbaum Foundation. \n  \n“Art in the Park” is supported in part by a grant from the Mass Cultural Council\, and a grant from the Pittsfield Cultural Council\, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council\, a state agency. \n  \nDownload the Downtown Pittsfield app in the App Store or on Google Play to follow a virtual walking tour of art on your cell phone. Direct link:  https://downtownpittsfield.stqry.app/list/62964 \n  \nFirst Fridays Artswalk and “Art in the Park” are supported in part by a grant from the Mass Cultural Council\, and a grant from the Pittsfield Cultural Council\, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council\, a state agency. \n  \nFirst Fridays Artswalk and “Art in the Park” are also supported in part by The Feigenbaum Foundation. \n  \nCheck out all of the August 7 First Fridays at Five events at lovepittsfield.com/first-fridays. \n  \n  \nEvent Highlights (South to North): \n   \nArtists at the Clock Tower\, 75 South Church Street\, Third Floor \nKaren Carmean\, Deborah H. Carter\, Lucie Castaldo\, Joan Palano Ciolfi\, Randy Foulds\, Marion Grant\, Nava Grunfeld\, Caroline Kelley\, Mollie Kellogg\, Eric Korenman\, Bruce Laird\, Lisa Loustaunau\, Mark Mellinger\, Linda Petrocine\, Sally Tiska Rice\, Ilene Richard\, Audrey Shachnow\, Stanley Singer\, Ariel Smith\, Sharon Walthew\, Stefanie Weber\, and Carmel Wilson \nOpen Studios: Friday\, August 7\, 5 to 8 pm \n   \nSolarium Plant Shop\, 46 West Street \n“Layered”- Visionary Alchemy of Paper\, Scissors & Glue \nMargo Serina of Sacred Bridge Studio \nOn View: Friday\, August 7\, 5 to 8 pm \n  \nO.U.R Resurge\, 119 Fenn Street \n“Awamu Artist Co-op” \nAshley Sposato\, Matt Brinton\, Nicole Fecteau\, and Rochely DeJesus Melendez \nArtist Reception: Friday\, August 7\, 5 to 8 pm \n  \nLichtenstein Center for the Arts\, 28 Renne Avenue \nCATA’s “I Am a Part of Art” \nOn View: Friday\, August 7\, 5 to 8 pm \n  \nPalace Park\, 122 North Street \n“Art in the Park” with Maru Domínguez \n“Faces of Pittsfield Community Art Experience” \nFriday\, August 7\, 5 to 8 pm \n  \nSanctum Gallery\, 148 North Street \n“The Spiritual Essence of Water” \nThe Art of Gail Gelburd and Tenzin Wangchuk \nOpening Reception: Friday\, August 7\, 5 to 8 pm \n  \nSoda Chef\, 161 North Street \nDrift & Bloom: The art of Nicole March \nWindow Display \n  \nHotel on North\, 297 North Street \nAutumn Phoenix Photography \nOn View: Friday\, August 7\, 5 to 8 pm \n  \nIndie Readery and Records\, 314 North Street \nCollage and painting on unconventional surfaces \nBrent Ridge \nOn View: Friday\, August 7\, 5 to 8 pm \n  \nFramework by Downtown Pittsfield\, Inc.\, 437 North Street \nKid Artwork from Berkshire Art Center’s Summer in the Studios Program \nOpening: Friday\, August 7\, 5 to 8 pm \n 
URL:https://downtownpittsfield.com/event/august-7-first-fridays-artswalk/
LOCATION:Downtown Pittsfield\, Pittsfield\, MA\, 01201\, United States
CATEGORIES:Art,Artswalk,First Fridays at Five
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://downtownpittsfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Square-August-2026-Artswalk-Graphic.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260807T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260807T200000
DTSTAMP:20260722T223541Z
CREATED:20260722T223541Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260722T223541Z
UID:10001570-1786122000-1786132800@downtownpittsfield.com
SUMMARY:First Fridays at Five: Pottery Demos with Jim Horsford
DESCRIPTION:Jim Horsford will be popped up in Palace Park hosting a free live pottery demonstration from 5 to 8 pm where he will be inviting individuals to help him make pots on the potter’s wheel. Jim spent 30 years as an art teacher at Herberg Middle School from 1978 to 2008. Currently\, he teaches pottery on the wheel at the Lichtenstein Center for the Arts where he has been since 2000. His creations will be available for purchase. \n  \nIn the case of inclement weather\, “Art in the Park”and pottery demos with Jim Horsford will be inside the Lichtenstein Center for the Arts at 28 Renee Avenue.
URL:https://downtownpittsfield.com/event/first-fridays-at-five-pottery-demos-with-jim-horsford/
LOCATION:Palace Park\, 116 North Street\, Pittsfield\, MA\, 01201\, United States
CATEGORIES:Art,Family Fun,First Fridays at Five,Free
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://downtownpittsfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/August-2026-Jim-Horsford-First-Fridays-at-Five-Square.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260904T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260904T200000
DTSTAMP:20260727T155659Z
CREATED:20260727T155659Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260727T155659Z
UID:10001579-1788541200-1788552000@downtownpittsfield.com
SUMMARY:First Fridays: “Art in the Park” with Jill McLean
DESCRIPTION:Join Downtown Pittsfield\, Inc. and First Fridays Artswalk as they feature Jill McLean as the September “Art in the Park” artist. Jill will be drawing a large ink sketch of First Friday during the September 4 First Fridays at Five from 5 to 8 pm. \nAs an unofficial finale to the 2026 season of the Urban Sketching Meetup\, Jill will be drawing a large ink sketch of First Friday and invites viewers to come add color to the scene and enjoy how the vibrancy\, liveliness\, and unpredictability of watercolor paint can capture life in interesting ways. \nUrban Sketching Meetup is a free gathering that Jill hosts once a month from June to September. Running every year since 2020\, the meetup is an opportunity for people who want to come out and try urban sketching (sketching in public places from life) but may not want to try it alone\, or simply want a casual excuse to do art together. \nEach event\, a downtown Pittsfield location is designated as the meet up spot and participants explore the area with their chosen art supplies. You can practice urban sketching outdoors or indoors and draw anything you see in front of you. It’s a great way to get to know your local community. \nJill McLean is an artist and Pittsfield native inspired by a wide range of local subjects\, from still lifes and florals to landscapes and animals. Working in watercolor and oil\, Jill’s portfolio includes everything from urban sketches and plein air paintings to planned series and formal studio pieces. Often taking her art outside of the studio\, you may find her painting on local hiking trails and at community events. \n“Art in the Park” is supported in part by the Feigenbaum Foundation. \n“Art in the Park” is supported in part by a grant from the Mass Cultural Council\, and a grant from the Pittsfield Cultural Council\, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council\, a state agency.
URL:https://downtownpittsfield.com/event/first-fridays-art-in-the-park-with-jill-mclean/
LOCATION:Palace Park\, 116 North Street\, Pittsfield\, MA\, 01201\, United States
CATEGORIES:Art,Artswalk,First Fridays at Five,Free
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://downtownpittsfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Art-in-the-Park-Sept.-2026-Final.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260904T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260904T200000
DTSTAMP:20260824T202159Z
CREATED:20260824T202140Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260824T202159Z
UID:10001589-1788541200-1788552000@downtownpittsfield.com
SUMMARY:First Fridays: Paper Blooms with Paper Petals Artist Elizabeth Nelson
DESCRIPTION:Inside the Lichtenstein Center for the Arts at 28 Renne Avenue\, enjoy a free interactive art activity: “Paper Blooms with Paper Petals Artist Elizabeth Nelson.” \n  \nUsing fine Italian crepe paper\, wire\, and glue\, make your own whimsical bloom during a step-by-step demo with paper petals artist Elizabeth Nelson. Supplies are limited so come early! Best for ages 12+ or children accompanied by a helpful adult.
URL:https://downtownpittsfield.com/event/paper-blooms-with-paper-petals-artist-elizabeth-nelson/
LOCATION:Lichtenstein Center for the Arts\, 28 Renne Avenue\, Pittsfield\, MA\, 01201\, United States
CATEGORIES:Art,First Fridays at Five
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://downtownpittsfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Paper-Blooms-with-Paper-Petals-Artist-Elizabeth-Nelson-First-Fridays-at-Five.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260904T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260904T200000
DTSTAMP:20260825T183817Z
CREATED:20260824T203545Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260825T183817Z
UID:10001592-1788541200-1788552000@downtownpittsfield.com
SUMMARY:September 4 First Fridays Artswalk
DESCRIPTION:The First Fridays Artswalk in downtown Pittsfield concludes its 5-month season (May through September) on Friday\, September 4 from 5 to 8 pm as part of the City of Pittsfield’s First Fridays at Five. \n  \nParticipating venues on Friday\, September 4 include Clock Tower Artists\, Framework by Downtown Pittsfield\, Inc.\, Hotel on North\, Indie Readery and Records\, Lichtenstein Center for the Arts\, O.U.R Resurge (at Makers Market)\, Sanctum Gallery\, Solarium Plant Shop\, and the Soda Chef. \n  \nDownload the Downtown Pittsfield App in the App Store or on Google Play to follow a virtual walking tour of art on your cell phone. \n  \nJoin the Clock Tower Artists at 75 South Church Street on Friday\, September 4\, 5 to 8 pm\, for an Open Studios event. \n  \nStroll the historic third floor and connect with over 20 professional artists working across a wide range of mediums. Whether you’re an art lover\, collector\, or curious newcomer\, you’re sure to find something that sparks your imagination. Enjoy original artwork\, creative conversations\, and a warm\, welcoming community of artists in the heart of Pittsfield. \n  \nArtists include Karen Carmean\, Deborah H. Carter\, Lucie Castaldo\, Joan Palano Ciolfi\, Randy Foulds\, Marion Grant\, Nava Grunfeld\, Caroline Kelley\, Mollie Kellogg\, Eric Korenman\, Bruce Laird\, Lisa Loustaunau\, Mark Mellinger\, Linda Petrocine\, Sally Tiska Rice\, Ilene Richard\, Audrey Shachnow\, Stanley Singer\, Ariel Smith\, Sharon Walthew\, Stefanie Weber\, and Carmel Wilson. \n  \nThe Berkshire Art Association will present TUNE IN\, a biennial juried exhibit\, at the Lichtenstein Center for the Arts\, 28 Renne Avenue\, Friday\, September 4 through Saturday\, September 26. There will be an Opening Reception on Friday\, September 4\, from 5 to 7 pm. \n  \nThe BAA invites you to probe into and explore the powerful artwork by artists of the Berkshires and the Northeast U.S. presented in their 2026 Biennial Exhibition\, TUNE IN. \n  \nThe concept TUNE IN is meant to challenge literal and visual conventions and will embrace the psyche of both artist and viewer. TUNE IN is a playful engagement in artistic dialogue focused on richness of meaning and evolution of meaning. TUNE IN pays attention to the world all around us\, while encouraging connection with curiosity\, empathy\, and authentic personal realities. TUNE IN willfully calls us to traverse a broad enlightened path of openness. \n  \nJurors for TUNE IN were Michael Boroniec\, Artist\, designer\, and sculptor; Arthur Hillman\, Professor Emeritus of Photography\, Simon’s Rock College at Bard; and Mindy Hackner\, Librarian\, museum educator\, and artist. \n  \nThe Lichtenstein Center for the Arts is open Wednesday through Friday\, 11 am to 3 pm\, and by appointment. \n  \nIndie Readery and Records\, 314 North Street\, will feature Alcohol Ink Paintings on Yupo Paper by Marney Schorr now through October 2026. Stop by during the September 4 Artswalk from 5 to 8 pm. \n  \nMarney Schorr is an Abstract and Surrealist Artist working mainly in acrylics and gouache. Her imagery emanates from the subconscious creating abstract and surrealist scenes that inspire differing narratives for each viewer. In this series\, Marney has experimented with Alcohol-based Inks on Yupo paper\, a rich and smooth paper that stays wet and is specifically designed for this media. Her process involves dripping inks\, sliding inks\, and creating layers of inks. \n  \nTo create luminosity\, she removes gradations of inks with rubbing alcohol\, q-tips\, tissues\, and sponges. She also sprays her works with rubbing alcohol to create a textural effect. The Ink paintings include ethereal and magical scenes\, as well as landscapes and flowers\, and under the sea paintings. \n  \nSanctum Gallery at 148 North Street will feature “Irresistible Future” by Amy Dawn Kotel\, September 4 through September 30. There will be an opening reception with the artist during the September 4th Artswalk from 5 to 8 pm. \n  \nAmy Dawn Kotel creates vibrant\, immersive artwork that bursts with movement\, color\, and curiosity. Inspired by nature\, spirituality\, human connection\, and the hidden layers beneath everyday life\, her paintings and mixed media works transform countless forms into expansive dreamscapes\, surreal imagery\, and emotionally rich worlds. Her work invites viewers to wander\, wonder\, and discover beauty in both the chaos and magic of being human. \n  \nAmy’s husband\, Matt Swift\, is an improvisational musician whose work spans electric bass\, guitar\, and synths. He will perform during Amy’s opening reception at the gallery. Aisha will also have a table of her beautiful soaps and candles available on a table outside the gallery as well. \n  \nBerkshire Art Center (BAC) will host “Kid Artwork Across All Ages\, from the Summer in the Studios Program at Berkshire Art Center” at Framework by Downtown Pittsfield\, Inc. located at 437 North Street. \n  \nThe show will be on view during the September 4 First Fridays at Five from 5 to 8 pm. \n  \nSolarium Plant Shop\, 46 West Street\, will feature “Layered”- Visionary Alchemy of Paper\, Scissors & Glue by Margo Serina during the Artswalk on Friday\, September 4\, from 5 to 8 pm. \n  \nMargo Serina of Sacred Bridge Studio is a Berkshire native and life-long artist who explores with various mediums to create art while gravitating towards collage and watercolor as two of her favorite forms of expression. Her work features contrast\, textures\, and vibrant color combinations as well as the use of mixed media and elements of nature. \n  \n“Layered” – Visionary Alchemy of Paper\, Scissors & Glue is a collection of collages Margo has created while exploring and allowing the paper she cuts and collects to come together organically in her creative process with both simplicity and articulation of the elements involved to create multi layered and cohesive images. She finds this process to be both meditative and highly therapeutic. \n  \nHotel on North\, 297 North Street\, will feature Autumn Phoenix Photography for the month of September. \n  \nAutumn Phoenix is a professional artist and photographer. Her work spans landscapes\, animals\, cityscapes\, and portraiture. Her photographs are defined by unique lighting and vibrant color to capture moments that might otherwise go unnoticed. She is inspired by her grandfather. She views each photograph as a “treasure chest” to preserve experiences long after they pass. \n  \nThe show will be on view on Friday\, September 4\, from 5 to 8 pm during the Artswalk. \n  \nO.U.R. Resurge will be joining the Makers Market on North Street for the September 4 First Fridays Artswalk and will feature the “Awamu Artist Co-op” with artists Ashley Sposato\, Matt Brinton\, Nicole Fecteau\, and Rochely DeJesus Melendez. “Awamu” means “Let’s go together” in Luganda! \n  \nAshley Sposato is a chronically ill poet and mixed-media artist based in the Berkshires. Through her project Idyll & Wild\, she explores love\, longing\, grief\, and transcendence with myth\, ancient history\, and the natural world. \n  \nOn a good day\, you can find her by the riverside calling to birds and buried in ancient Greek poetry. We won’t talk about other days (those are reserved for poems). More conventionally\, she can be found on Substack as Idyll & Wild\, and on Instagram as idyllwildpoetry. \n  \nAshley is published in journals by “The Way Back To Ourselves” and is Pushcart Prize nominated. She is currently working on her inaugural book of poetry\, Hymns for the Orchard. \n  \nMatthew Brinton’s artwork and writing are inspired by the experiences that have shaped his life. On the page and on the canvas\, he attempts to express his understanding of the human condition. Matt’s hope is that by being honest about his experiences\, he can connect with a universal truth and remind others that they are not alone in their struggle to find meaning and purpose. \n  \n​Matt’s drawings are done in a realistic style but often incorporate a painterly and classical linear style. The drawings of landscape and still life he creates are inspired by the sheer beauty of the subjects. His portraiture mainly consists of historical figures who have impacted his life. In his portrayal of these figures\, the main focus is to capture their inner spiritual lives. \n  \nNicole Fecteau’s art is an expression of the interconnectedness of life\, the unending tapestries of stories we weave as communal beings deeply connected to each other and also profoundly integrated within our natural world. Utilizing fabric\, colored pencils\, and embroidery\, Nicole strives to portray various allusions to life and faith as a journey that brings us deeper into our shared experience\, inviting us into more heartfelt levels of compassion and mercy. \n  \nRochely DeJesus Melendez is growing in her art mediums and expanding her vision – she feels that our lives are shifting so much. These seismic oceanic currents we all feel generationally\, environmentally\, historically\, and politically can be funneled and expressed through art in ways that invite curiosity and shift mindsets. \n  \nJoin Downtown Pittsfield\, Inc. and First Fridays Artswalk as they feature Jill McLean as the September “Art in the Park” artist. Jill will be drawing a large ink sketch of First Friday during the September 4 First Fridays at Five from 5 to 8 pm. \n  \nAs an unofficial finale to the 2026 season of the Urban Sketching Meetup\, Jill will be drawing a large ink sketch of First Friday and invites viewers to come add color to the scene and enjoy how the vibrancy\, liveliness\, and unpredictability of watercolor paint can capture life in interesting ways. \n  \nUrban Sketching Meetup is a free gathering that Jill hosts once a month from June to September. Running every year since 2020\, the meetup is an opportunity for people who want to come out and try urban sketching (sketching in public places from life) but may not want to try it alone\, or simply want a casual excuse to do art together. \n  \nEach event\, a downtown Pittsfield location is designated as the meet up spot and participants explore the area with their chosen art supplies. You can practice urban sketching outdoors or indoors and draw anything you see in front of you. It’s a great way to get to know your local community. \n  \nJill McLean is an artist and Pittsfield native inspired by a wide range of local subjects\, from still lifes and florals to landscapes and animals. Working in watercolor and oil\, Jill’s portfolio includes everything from urban sketches and plein air paintings to planned series and formal studio pieces. Often taking her art outside of the studio\, you may find her painting on local hiking trails and at community events. \n  \n“Art in the Park” is supported in part by the Feigenbaum Foundation. \n  \n“Art in the Park” is supported in part by a grant from the Mass Cultural Council\, and a grant from the Pittsfield Cultural Council\, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council\, a state agency. \n  \nDownload the Downtown Pittsfield app in the App Store or on Google Play to follow a virtual walking tour of art on your cell phone. Direct link: https://downtownpittsfield.stqry.app/list/63424 \n  \nFirst Fridays Artswalk and “Art in the Park” are supported in part by a grant from the Mass Cultural Council\, and a grant from the Pittsfield Cultural Council\, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council\, a state agency. \n  \nFirst Fridays Artswalk and “Art in the Park” are also supported in part by The Feigenbaum Foundation. \n  \nCheck out all of the September 4 First Fridays at Five events at lovepittsfield.com/first-fridays. \n  \n  \nEvent Highlights (South to North): \n   \nArtists at the Clock Tower\, 75 South Church Street\, Third Floor \nKaren Carmean\, Deborah H. Carter\, Lucie Castaldo\, Joan Palano Ciolfi\, Randy Foulds\, Marion Grant\, Nava Grunfeld\, Caroline Kelley\, Mollie Kellogg\, Eric Korenman\, Bruce Laird\, Lisa Loustaunau\, Mark Mellinger\, Linda Petrocine\, Sally Tiska Rice\, Ilene Richard\, Audrey Shachnow\, Stanley Singer\, Ariel Smith\, Sharon Walthew\, Stefanie Weber\, and Carmel Wilson \nOpen Studios: Friday\, September 4\, 5 to 8 pm \n   \nSolarium Plant Shop\, 46 West Street \n“Layered”- Visionary Alchemy of Paper\, \nScissors & Glue \nMargo Serina of Sacred Bridge Studio \nOn View: Friday\, September 4\, 5 to 8 pm \n  \nNorth Street in the Makers Market (O.U.R Resurge) \n“Awamu Artist Co-op” \nAshley Sposato\, Matt Brinton\, Nicole Fecteau\, and Rochely DeJesus Melendez \nVisit their tent: Friday\, September 4\, 5 to 8 pm \n  \nLichtenstein Center for the Arts\, 28 Renne Avenue \nBerkshire Art Association biennial juried exhibit \nTUNE IN \nOpening Reception: Friday\, September 4\, 5 to 7 pm \n  \nPalace Park\, 122 North Street \n“Art in the Park” with Jill McLean \nDrawing a large ink sketch of First Friday \nFriday\, September 4\, 5 to 8 pm \n  \nSanctum Gallery\, 148 North Street \n“Irresistible Future” \nAmy Dawn Kotel \nOpening Reception: Friday\, September 4\, 5 to 8 pm \n  \nSoda Chef\, 161 North Street \nDrift & Bloom: The art of Nicole March \nWindow Display \n  \nHotel on North\, 297 North Street \nAutumn Phoenix Photography \nOpening Reception: Friday\, September 4\, 5 to 8 pm \n  \nIndie Readery and Records\, 314 North Street \nAlcohol Ink Paintings on Yupo Paper \nMarney Schorr \nOn View: Friday\, September 4\, 5 to 8 pm \n  \nFramework by Downtown Pittsfield\, Inc.\, 437 North Street \nKid Artwork from Berkshire Art Center’s Summer in the Studios Program \nOn View: Friday\, September 4\, 5 to 8 pm
URL:https://downtownpittsfield.com/event/september-4-first-fridays-artswalk/
LOCATION:Downtown Pittsfield\, Pittsfield\, MA\, 01201\, United States
CATEGORIES:Art,Artswalk,First Fridays at Five
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://downtownpittsfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Flyer-September-2026-Artswalk-Graphic.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260927T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260927T150000
DTSTAMP:20260920T181520Z
CREATED:20260730T184827Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260920T181520Z
UID:10001583-1790503200-1790521200@downtownpittsfield.com
SUMMARY:Downtown Pittsfield\, Inc. hosts Local Love Arts Festival on Sunday\, September 27
DESCRIPTION:The inaugural Local Love Arts Festival will take place on Sunday\, September 27\, 2026\, from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm at The Common in Downtown Pittsfield. Local artists will take center stage — showcasing their work\, connecting with new audiences\, and reminding our community that some of the region’s most talented creators are right here in our own backyard. \nThe event will celebrate the incredible talent of Berkshire County’s artists while creating a vibrant Downtown experience filled with art\, music\, food\, family activities\, and community. Visitors will enjoy 20+ artisanal vendor booths\, the Berkshires Jazz Summer Showcase\, food and beverages\, a children’s activity area with free face painting and balloon twisting\, sidewalk chalk art with Pittsfield Parks and Rec\, and interactive arts experiences throughout the day. Hot Plate Brewing Co. will host an exclusive beer and wine garden with a view of the Main Stage. \n\nBruce Bowey of BTC Family Entertainment will host a free\, family-friendly magic show at 11 AM and 1:30 PM that contains some puppet routines and some ventriloquism. \nLive jazz entertainment will be provided by Berkshires Jazz. Performers include Junk\, featuring Will Hudgins on vibraphone; Joe Finn with Jack Dinicola and Friends; and The Wanda Houston Band. \nSchedule:\n12 PM: Junk\, featuring Will Hudgins on vibraphone\n1 PM: Joe Finn with Jack Dinicola and Friends\n2 PM: The Wanda Houston Band \nThe Berkshires Jazz Summer Showcase is sponsored by the Berkshire Eagle\, Pittsfield Cultural Council\, and Mill Town Foundation. \nJUNK\, featuring Will Hudgins on vibraphone\, is the creation of Michael Junkins\, a standout guitarist and leader. He performs throughout the Berkshires in several configurations. He is the curator of the jazz series in the Lion’s Den at the Red Lion Inn in Stockbridge. His quintet features Will Hudgins\, who has stood out as a jazz vibist as well as performing classical repertoire with the BSO. \nJoe Finn with Jack Dinicola and friends. Drummer and leader Jack Dinicola is a Berkshire Music School faculty member\, who educates and performs in Berkshire County and Albany\, N.Y. Guitarist Joe Finn has been established as one of the top guitarists in the area. In addition to local performances and teaching\, his album “Straight Ahead” received critical acclaim as well as extensive national airplay. \nThe Wanda Houston Band features the accomplished singer\, actress\, and music coach. A fixture in clubs and main-stage events throughout the area\, The Wanda Houston Band\, features Wanda’s powerful voice and characteristic charisma\, and plays a mix of mid-20th century jazz and rhythm-and-blues. \nArtists Mike Carty and Diane Firtell will be painting live during the event. Diane will paint from 10 am to 1 pm\, and Mike will paint from 11:45 am to 2:45 pm. \nBerkshire Art Center will be providing an interactive art activity\, and Katunemo Art & Healing will host a Faces of Pittsfield community art project. \nPittsfield Parks & Recreation will host chalk art drawing for the duration of the event. People of all ages and abilities are invited to transform the paved walking paths of The Common into a vibrant outdoor gallery using sidewalk chalk. There is no competitiveness to this activity; it’s just an opportunity to create\, connect\, and enjoy art in a welcoming\, family-friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or simply looking to draw for fun with friends or family\, everyone is invited to participate. There will be some pre-taped squares along the pavement at the front of the park which will be available on a first-come\, first-served basis as well as a dedicated kids’ drawing area. \n\nVendors: \nAuntie Kat’s Handmade Gift Shoppe \nBake My Day \nBaked! Pastries & More \nBirds Eye Woodcraft \nCalcite & Comfrey \nChela & Co. Charcuterie \nCourtney’s Creations \nDragonfly Dreams \nFilament and Ink Studio \nGlimmerhold Artistry \nMaMa Luchi’s All Natural Handmade Products \nPenny Arcade Press \nRay of Bray Laser Designs \nSolarium (Anastasia Drayton) \nSure Thing Stained Glass \nTRoLL Art \nTruffles by Tarah LLC \n\nA portion of the proceeds from the festival will support Downtown Pittsfield\, Inc.’s ongoing work to promote local businesses\, public art\, placemaking\, and community events throughout Downtown Pittsfield. \nThe Local Love Arts Festival is sponsored by the Massachusetts Cultural Council\, Mill Town Foundation\, and the Feigenbaum Foundation. \nDowntown Pittsfield\, Inc. is still accepting applications for Berkshire County based artisanal vendors to showcase their wares at the Local Love Arts Festival on Sunday\, September 27\, 2026\, 10 am to 3 pm\, at The Common on First Street. \nOnly those who make their own handmade products will be accepted. DPI is looking for visual artists\, craftspeople\, textile artists\, jewelry makers\, and those who make quality packaged foods and sweets. All vendors will go through an approval process\, and the organizers of the Local Love Arts Festival reserve the right to reject any vendor who is not a fit for this market. Spaces are limited. The booth fee is $75\, and vendors are responsible for their own tables\, tents\, and set-up. No resale products will be accepted. Link to apply to be a vendor: https://forms.gle/3c9u8oymsafznnfDA \n 
URL:https://downtownpittsfield.com/event/downtown-pittsfield-inc-announces-local-love-arts-festival/
LOCATION:The Common\, First Street\, Pittsfield\, MA\, 100 First Street\, Pittsfield\, MA\, 01201\, United States
CATEGORIES:Art
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://downtownpittsfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Revised-Local-Love-Festival-Logo-and-Announcement-2.png
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