We will be showcasing two solo shows in Newburgh, NY: Ashley Lyon “Tender Temper” and Frances Waite “Here You Come Again.” *see more on their pages on our exhibitions drop-down menu.

After reviewing over a hundred applications, UPSTATE ART WEEKEND is thrilled to announce its second expanded edition, taking place from August 27-29, 2021, which incorporates sixty one participants in the Hudson Valley. This three-day self-directed, accessible event connects tourists and locals alike, with art and the outdoors, celebrating the cultural vibrancy of Upstate New York.

In the coming months the full program and official map, the later produced in partnership with Chronogram, will be provided for those wanting to safely explore sculpture parks, museums, galleries, artists’ studios, residencies, public artworks and creative projects situated either side of the Hudson River, spanning six counties.

“UPSTATE ART WEEKEND is about community, collaboration, art and the outdoors, which are essential to our well-being. We are thrilled the event has grown so much and cannot wait to connect more visitors with the arts in the Hudson Valley”, said Helen Toomer.

Founded in 2020 by Helen Toomer of STONELEAF RETREAT to celebrate the cultural vibrancy of Upstate New York, UPSTATE ART WEEKEND connects people and places, building a community that not only visits for the weekend, but explores the Hudson Valley throughout the year.

Last year UPSTATE ART WEEKEND increased awareness of and encouraged safe visitor engagement with 23 art spaces in the Hudson Valley.

‘“This collective creative capital is giving the Hudson Valley a reputation as an essential place to visit, explore, and invest in,” says John P. Stern, president of the Storm King Art Center, the outdoor sculpture garden that’s a leading presence in the region. The weekend of events “certainly underscores how much culture has grown in our area, the mutual support that organizations offer each other,” he says’. -Artnet News

‘For residents and visitors alike, the Hudson Valley has long been a bastion of impressive outdoor art, be that at well-known locations like Storm King Art Center or emerging epicenters like Art Omi. UPSTATE ART WEEKEND aims to encourage unity between them all.’ -COOLHUNTING

“Our pop-up location in our Newburgh studio got so much online (and real life SD masked) attention during UPAW, despite the pandemic. The location is off the beaten path akin to a 'speakeasy' art-spot, yet folks came far and wide to experience the exhibition of Azikiwe Mohammed and his off-site installation at a different location in the city with our collaborator, Strongroom.” -Lina and Liz, Partners, Elijah Wheat Showroom, 2020 Participant

“This wonderful celebration of art and culture in the Hudson Valley region comes at the perfect moment, when finally, after months of closure, so many significant organizations and institutions are able to welcome visitors back.” Vittorio Calabrese, Director, Magazzino Italian Art, 2020 Participant

“Amazing initiative after such a lonely time.” Paola Oxoa, Founder, Mother Gallery, 2020 Participant

“Upstate Art Weekend was the doctor's orders in what is arguably a challenging and paradigm shifting moment. We were thrilled to participate in an INCLUSIVE, community-minded, grassroots programming such as what took place this year. It gave us hope for the future, for Upstate, and for new ways of bringing art to a larger audience.” -Team Starlite, Starlite Motel, 2020 Participant

UPSTATE ART WEEKEND was founded in 2020 by Helen Toomer and is powered by STONELEAF RETREAT..