The Grange is excited to announce the formation of Whitcomb’s Arts, with a mission to build out programs at Whitcomb’s, the renovated garage and greenspace across the street from the Grange. Whitcomb’s is now home to five artisans, a retail store, community space and art gallery, and also has over an acre of greenspace on the Boquet River. The new committee is actively seeking co-curators to partner with Whitcomb’s Arts on projects, and will explore new types of events to bring to the region.
Whitcomb’s Arts chair, Laurie House, notes that the North Country has an active arts scene. “I go to more arts events here than I ever did while living in New York City. Our fun challenge is to use Whitcomb’s to expand those riches in a unique way.”
An example of this is the recent “Wool & Water” exhibition held in the gallery. It featured pieces created from fiber and natural materials by many artists who interpreted water quality data from the lakes and rivers of the Adirondacks in striking and unexpected ways. In March, the gallery features an exhibition of Teddi Rogers’ paintings and drawings; in April, a show by Brian Lavallee from Jay. Gallery shows will expand to include a festive opening night reception featuring artist interviews.
For the past year, Whitcomb’s has hosted the popular monthly SpeakEazy Open Mic Storytelling nights on second Wednesdays, and a weekly music jam. On March 31, Whitcomb’s Arts will present a Stop Motion Animation Party (for Grown Ups), led by Laurie House, where participants can create their own videos using stop-motion techniques.
Possible future Whitcomb’s Arts events include readings by visiting writers, interactive salons and discussion groups, youth events, play readings, art classes, songwriting and creative writing seminars.
Whitcomb’s Arts is looking to community residents and visitors as “Co-Curators,” individuals who want to create an event or project. House says, “Many of us have at least one great idea or dream event that we’d like to put on, but have no way of doing it as a person outside of an organization. Co-curating with Whitcomb’s Arts is a chance to put an idea into action with the support of a group that has a mailing list, an existing space with chairs and lighting and, of course, nice people who want to work with you.” Whitcomb’s Arts will seriously consider all ideas, even if they can’t do each one. “It’s the beginning of a great experiment. Surprise us with your suggestions.” To reach Whitcomb’s Arts, email whitcombsarts@thegrangehall.info.