By Vivien Abrams Collens, Cornwall-on-Hudson
Thank you for the coverage of Upstate Art Weekend and my sculpture installations.
I love how Cornwall, Cornwall-on-Hudson and the Cornwall Chamber of Commerce came together to support the installation of my sculptures for Upstate Art Weekend 2024.
Special thanks to Supervisor Josh, Councilwoman Rohksha, and Mayor Jimmy for quickly bringing this about! The Cornwall Chamber worked with them to do an incredible job of raising funds for the project, which has now become Cornwall’s Public Art Program. Buffy Heldt and Eileen Hartmann worked with the Chamber of Commerce to make this four day event into a year-long exhibition. I am grateful to Walden Savings Bank and Cromwell Manor Inn for jumping in and sponsoring installations on their properties.
This project could not have happened without the expert co-operation of Tom Gschwind and the Cornwall Highway Department, and Dave Halvorsen and the C-o-H Department of Public Works. They could not have been nicer or more respectful to this aging female sculptor.
Many, many thanks to the individuals who donated to the costs of realizing this project, and everyone who bought tickets for the kickoff party, purchased my collectible ceramic sculptures or raffle tickets for my small metal sculptures. All funds collected benefit Cornwall’s Public Art Program.
Special thanks also to my husband David for his support, time and experienced advice.
As a member and former board member of the Orange County Arts Council, I have long advocated for public sculpture in Orange County. I am thrilled to have this opportunity to bring it to our community through the loans of my work. I hope the exhibit will bring visitors and business to our wonderful community. Please enjoy the sculptures as playful manifestations of the ideas which inspired them.