We are thrilled to announce that Saratoga Joinery is the recipient of two generous arts education grants from Saratoga Arts! This esteemed support underscores the vital role of accessible arts education in fostering a vibrant and engaged community. These grant-funded programs will empower us to deliver important programming that directly addresses key needs within our local artistic landscape.
The first grant will support our project, "Making Framing Accessible to Artists." The concept for this project was developed after hearing from the local artist community about the significant costs associated with framing two-dimensional artwork in preparation to show their work. While unframed pieces can certainly be displayed, a well-chosen frame invariably elevates the presentation and perceived value of the work. Unfortunately, the expense of professional framing is steep, sometimes leaving artists with no choice but to adopt less than ideal methods to “finish” their pieces.
In response to this need, "Making Framing Accessible to Artists" will offer a series of three focused, hands-on workshops within our woodshop, and a fourth session that each participant can schedule with the instructors independently. These sessions are designed to equip local artists with the skills necessary to create their own elegant and affordable frames. The fundamental techniques taught will be readily adaptable to a variety of framing styles. Importantly, while power tools will be utilized during the instruction, the workshops will also underscore the feasibility of constructing these frames with a minimal investment in basic power or even hand tools. Participants will conclude the series with a beautifully framed piece of their own artwork, and the skills to craft their own frames in the future.
This three-part series will be offered three times on the following dates. Each session is cohort-based and each participant is committing to all three dates. The fourth date will be individually set by the teachers and each class participant. Registration fee is $25.
Session 1:
- Tuesday, July 15: 5pm-8pm
- Thursday, July 17: 5pm-8pm
- Saturday, July 19: 9am-12pm
Session 2:
- Tuesday, September 9: 5pm-8pm
- Thursday, September 11: 5pm-8pm
- Saturday, September 13: 9am-12pm
Session 3:
- Tuesday, November 4: 5pm-8pm
- Thursday, November 6: 5pm-8pm
- Saturday, November 8: 9am-12pm
Additionally, Saratoga Joinery is honored to serve as the fiscal sponsor for "Woodcarving for Beginners," a thoughtfully conceived program led by the exceptionally talented local woodcarver, Mariah Day. This three-part class will introduce participants to the foundational techniques of woodcarving through the creation of functional and aesthetically pleasing objects: a spoon, a bowl, and a self-designed love spoon. Mariah’s passion for woodcarving is steeped in her belief that the craft provides a low-cost way to promote mental wellbeing.
In our increasingly digital, fast-paced, and expensive world, accessible and affordable activities that promote mental well-being are crucial. Woodcarving offers a unique solution, requiring minimal investment and providing a focused, meditative practice that reduces anxiety and fosters a connection with natural materials and creative expression. “Woodcarving for Beginners” addresses the growing need for low-cost, readily available stress-reduction techniques.
This three-part series will be offered three times on the following dates. Each session is cohort-based and each participant is committing to all three dates. Registration fee is $25.
Session 1:
- Thursday, May 29: 5:30pm-8:30pm
- Saturday, May 31: 11am-3pm
- Thursday, June 5: 5:30pm-8:30pm
Session 2:
- Thursday, August 21: 5:30pm-8:30pm
- Saturday, August 23: 11am-3pm
- Thursday, August 28: 5:30pm-8:30pm
Session 3:
- Thursday, October 23: 5:30pm-8:30pm
- Saturday, October 25: 11am-3pm
- Thursday, October 30: 5:30pm-8:30pm
We extend our sincere gratitude to Saratoga Arts for their visionary support of these initiatives. "Making Framing Accessible to Artists" directly addresses a practical need within our artistic community, while "Woodcarving for Beginners" offers a valuable pathway to both creative expression and mindful engagement. We eagerly anticipate the positive impact these programs will have in our community. This is indeed an auspicious time for the arts in Saratoga.
Saratoga Arts made this program possible through the Community Arts Regrant Program, funded by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.
Saratoga Joinery is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and relies upon the support of the community to keep our blades spinning.
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