The Catskill Chronicle

LIVINGSTON MANOR, NY (December 27, 2011) – The Catskill Art Society (CAS) is the proud new owner of the building that they have been occupying for the last four years at 48 Main Street in Livingston Manor.

The space, once a movie theater, was redesigned to house CAS in 2007. It includes two spacious, light-filled galleries as well as exhibition space in the large center hall. In the back are classrooms where virtually any conceivable aspect of the arts spectrum can be taught.

In addition there is an upstairs space, still raw, but planned as theater space and artists’ studios.

Over a span of 40 years, beginning in December 1971, CAS has been a home for local artists where their work could be shown and discussed and new skills could be acquired.

When CAS moved to Livingston Manor in 2007, it was revitalized with growing responsibilities and a new community mission. Having a welcoming storefront and Main Street presence enabled CAS to become meaningful to a whole new and growing generation of artists. CAS flourished and became an anchor of a community that was fast becoming a destination for those in search of culture all over the area.

To keep that future bright, CAS has embarked on a 40th anniversary fundraising effort with the goal of providing moneys for the completion of the stabilization project and for an operating fund that will allow it to maintain and expand programming in the years to come. It can expand its programming on a multi-year basis, free of the stress and instability of a year to year lease. With the purchase of the 48 Main St. building, CAS has a stake in the community and is revving up to be the engine for new vibrancy and enterprise in the western Catskills that it was always meant to be. To find out ways in which you can contribute contact Kathryn at 845-426-4227 or Kathryn@catskillartsociety.org