The Catskill Chronicle

Photo provided by Bethel Woods Center for the Arts.

BETHEL, NY (November 29, 2010) – Bethel Woods Center for the Arts is honored by the ongoing support of the local community, which contributes to the not-for-profit organization’s continued growth as an important contributor to cultural life in our region.

Bethel Woods strives to continue to develop educational and community programs to build upon its current offerings, and depends on the generosity of individuals, foundations and corporate donors to assure long-term growth and sustainability.

The Museum at Bethel Woods’ current special exhibition, Collecting Woodstock: Recent Museum Acquisitions is made possible, in part, by the generous support of Mr. Alan Kesten, Ms. Kathy Gaglio and the Kesten Family.

The Museum started collecting Sixties and Woodstock festival artifacts during construction, and this effort continues today. To celebrate artifacts collected to date, and the donors who gave them, this new special exhibit opened on July 29 and will run through January 2, 2011, so don’t miss the opportunity to see these unique items before they head back into the archives.  The exhibit features thirty new festival images from 5 photographers, never-before displayed festival artifacts, a video compilation of rare Woodstock footage, interviews, home video of the festival and live music audio from the concert.

Darlene Fedun, Bethel Woods Chief Operating Officer remarked, “Objects associated with the historic 1969 Woodstock Music and Art Fair are essential to the growth and educational potential of the Museum and are actively sought by our team.  Mr. Kesten’s support of this exhibition helps us to showcase our growing collection.”

Mr. Kesten of Forestburgh, is a Sullivan County Coroner who also owns Yellow Cab Co., has been a Bethel Woods Box Holder since 2006. He is also active in the Monticello Fire Department. Ms. Gaglio is a kindergarten teacher at The Homestead School in Glen Spey.

Mr. Kesten explained, “My family and I are proud to support Bethel Woods and their goal of sharing these outstanding artifacts and the history of this important decade.  We believe it is a vital community obligation to support one of Sullivan County’s premier destinations for residents and visitors.

Special exhibitions are an integral part of The Museum’s purpose. The planning and mounting of these exhibitions provides opportunities for intern and volunteer involvement in research, curatorial work, writing, and hands-on installation. Special exhibitions also help to expand the Museum’s audience while enhancing its respected reputation.

If you are interested in learning more about what you can do to support future exhibitions, community or education programs at Bethel Woods, please contact the Development office at 845-295-2500.

Photo Attached:  From left Director of the Museum at Bethel Woods, Wade Lawrence with donors Alan Kesten and Kathy Gaglio.