Nice to see Emma Safir has been awarded 2026 Saint-Gaudens Fellowship

 It's nice to see young emerging artist receive acknowledgement. Fin Art Magazine Blog wishes Emma Safir the best art future to come. 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Emma Safir Awarded 2026 Saint-Gaudens Fellowship The Trustees of the Saint-Gaudens Memorial in Cornish, N.H. are pleased to announce that Emma Safir has been named recipient of the 2026 Saint-Gaudens Fellowship. This prestigious award is given to an emerging artist with an exhibition record who demonstrates exceptional talent and will benefit from the accompanying monetary grant at this stage in their career. Upon receiving the award, Emma Safir commented: “I am truly honored to receive the Saint-Gaudens Fellowship. In addition to having the opportunity to participate in the ongoing conversation of the artist fellows that have come before me, I am thrilled to have the resources that afford me freedom to explore and expand my practice in new ways. I’m looking forward to visiting Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park this summer, and can’t wait to see how it informs the work I will make for summer 2027.” Fellowship Committee Co-Chair Patricia Cronin noted, “Congratulations to Emma Safir, because this year’s fellowship was extremely competitive. For the first time, eminent sculpture curators from prestigious institutions served as external nominators and Safir rose to the top during the jury’s deliberations. Safir uses a wide variety of media, including painting, photography, digital manipulation, antiquarian textile techniques, and sculpture. Her works of art start as photos of “privacy solutions,” such as privacy glass and reflections. These images are manipulated and printed on fabric. As the process continues, Safir’s original works move further away from the original image, but not with intentional perfection in mind. The altered work of art often changes medium and certainly meaning as it moves away from that first-generation photo.” Safir was drawn to the Fellowship in order to apply her ideas to the formal, celebratory “masque.” These lavish open-air parties combined performance, dance, music, song, and poetry, and, in their earliest incarnations hundreds of years ago, were intended to please monarchs. The subject matter was often mythical or allegorical and celebrants wore masks, blurring the line between audience and performers. In celebration of the twentieth anniversary of Augustus Saint-Gaudens’s arrival in Cornish, in June 1905 Cornish Colony held its own performance on the grounds of the sculptor’s home, “A Masque of ‘Ours,’ The Gods and The Golden Bowl.” For Safir, that occasion presents an opportunity to further consider the line between public and private worlds and reconsider an event that took place more than 120 years ago. Safir earned an MFA in painting and printmaking from Yale University and a BFA from the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) in printmaking. The annual Saint-Gaudens Fellowship reflect the ideals of American sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens, who was an innovative sculptor and a mentor to emerging artists. The Fellow’s works are expected to enhance public interest in his life, work, and creative process. Safir will exhibit at the Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park in summer 2027. About the Saint-Gaudens Memorial Founded in 1919 by family and friends of the sculptor, the Saint-Gaudens Memorial works in partnership with the National Park Service to preserve Augustus Saint-Gaudens’s home, studios, gardens, and collections, and to sponsor exhibitions, concerts, fellowships, and educational programs. Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park is open to the public seasonally from May through October. https://saint-gaudens.org/ Contact: Jackeline Rocha, Executive Director

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Environmental Celebration SoFo's 37th Annual Summer Gala, July 11, 2026, Bridgehampton. See below tticket info!!!

As an Eco-Art Environmental photographer, I applaud all efforts to support the waterways, and natural environment. Sunstorm Fine Art Magazine has supported the environment and environmental projects for 50 years. Jamie Forbes, Publisher for Fine Art Magazine Blog, sunstormfineartmagazine.com, backyardenvironmentalist.com/backyardenvironmentalist/projects

 

SOFO’s 37th Annual Summer Gala to Celebrate 
the Power of the Natural World in Bridgehampton

Images from the 36^th Annual SOFO Summer Gala (2025) (Photo Credit: Society Allure / Rob Rich)

 

Fabien Cousteau, Bernadette Castro, Louise and Stephen Pesce, and Jean Shafiroff will be honored at the July Benefit supporting environmental education, conservation and community programming

The South Fork Natural History Museum and Nature Center, known as SOFO, will hold its 37th Annual Summer Gala Benefit at the museum in Bridgehampton on Saturday, July 11^th, 2026, from 5:30pm to 10:30pm.

This year’s gala, themed “Celebrate the Power of Our Natural World: Protecting Our Planet’s Living Waters & Lands,” will support the South Fork Natural History Museum and Nature Center‘s environmental education, museum programming, conservation initiatives and community outreach. The evening will bring together conservation leaders, philanthropists, civic supporters and Hamptons guests for one of the East End’s signature summer benefits.

The 2026 honorees include Fabien Cousteau, renowned aquanaut, ocean conservationist and documentary filmmaker; Bernadette Castro, esteemed civic leader and environmental advocate; Louise and Stephen Pesce, devoted supporters of conservation and community initiatives; and Jean Shafiroff, advocate, philanthropist and humanitarian.

The evening will begin with a VIP cocktail reception from 5:30pm to 6:45pm, featuring a special tasting menu from acclaimed chefs, restaurants and beverage sponsors. 

Participating names include Amagansett Wines & Spirits, Bell & Anchor, Channing Daughters Winery, East Hampton Grill, Events by Peter Ambrose, Golden Pear Cafe, Hampton Coffee Company, J.A. Baczewski Monopolowa Gin & Vodka, Kidd Squid Brewing Co., LALO Tequila, LDV at the Maidstone, Lobster Roll/LUNCH, Michael Cinque, Page Sag Harbor, Sen, Shellworks, Shippy’s, Springs Tavern & Grill, Talkhouse Encore, The Palm Restaurant and Wölffer Estate Vineyard.

The benefit party will follow from 7:00pm to 10:30pm with dinner, an honoree presentation, a live auction and dancing. Angela LaGreca will serve as special guest auctioneer at the gala.

The gala host committee, listed as in formation, includes Erica Noble and Ray Iwanowski, Kim and Greg Lippmann, Mark Masone, Mirella Cameron-Riley, Susan and David Rockefeller, Samriti and Scott Seltzer, and Lisa Tamburini.

Gala sponsors include 2026 Hamptons Concours d’Elegance by Rand Luxury, Decco by Party Up Productions, DG Creative Media, Dylan’s Candy Bar, Evelyn Alexander Wildlife Rescue Center, Hampton Coffee Company, National Geographic – Lindblad Expeditions, Russell Mittermeier, Carl Safina & The Safina Center, Something Different Party Rental, Summerhill Landscape and Whitmores (list in formation).

Media sponsors include Dan’s Papers, Hamptons Magazine, The Express News Group and James Lane Post, (list in formation).

Tickets and tables are available. VIP tables range from $7,500 to $50,000, with individual tickets available at $1,500 for general admission and $2,000 for VIP single tickets.

For tickets, tables and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.sofo.org/summergala

About The South Fork Natural History Museum and Nature Center:
The South Fork Natural History Museum and Nature Center is a family-friendly natural history museum in Bridgehampton dedicated to exploration, discovery, environmental education and conservation. Through museum exhibits, programs, field walks, marine education, citizen science and community initiatives, SOFO helps children, families and adults better understand and protect the natural world of the East End and beyond.

 

For further information, please visit: www.sofo.org

#sofosummergala#fnvironmentforall#jamieforbes#artfunsummer#artfunnow#artfuncelebrate

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The Islip Arts Center newletter: Community Heart Mosaic Wall- fundraiser!!!

STAY CONNECTED BECOME A MEMBER            CLASSES

Islip Arts Council will be CLOSED on Friday, July 3 & Saturday, July 4, and will reopen on Tuesday, July 7, 11am-4pm. Have a safe and happy Fourth of July!

COMMUNITY HEART MOSAIC WALL - CELEBRATING AMERICA'S 250TH ANNIVERSARY MOSAIC FUNDRAISER Help us build a 10ft mosaic wall - one tile at a time! In honor of America's 250th anniversary, we are building a mosaic wall to help bring the message of unity, inclusivity, and love, celebrating and recognizing our diverse nation. Each kit will include: -Your unique number indicating your placement on the image -6x6 primed tile -One paint pot with the color that will make up 80% of your art piece -One paint brush MOSAIC KIT: $20.00 Each kit purchased helps support local arts programs in keeping creativity alive in our community.

COMING SEPTEMBER 26

UNDER THE SEA ~ LIGHT & ART FESTIVAL Saturday, September 26, 6:00 - 10:00 pm Join us for an enchanting evening celebrating art, light, creativity, and the beauty of the ocean. Under the Sea Light & Art Festival will be held outdoors and will include an artisan night market, glowing art installations, interactive light experiences, live music & more! This family-friendly fun event is FREE! BECOME A VENDOR We are looking for artists, makers, crafters, and specialty vendors whose work complements the festival's aquatic, coastal, and imaginative themes. This is a night time event, illuminate your booth (Best decorated booth gets a prize), so lets see those Lights! Make sure you have weights to hold your tent down if you have one. Vendor Fee: $50 Space is limited. Please complete this application to be considered for participation. For questions, please contact the Islip Arts Council Gallery at 631-888-3525.

VENDOR FORM

2026 TEENYS

While this year's celebration looked a little different, the heart of the Teenys remains the same: honoring the incredible creativity of our young artists! We look forward to celebrating with you at the 2027 Teenys. Thank you to our sponsors: • Catholic Health Good Samaritan University Hospital • Overton Funeral Home, Inc. • MyLITV • Tom Cilmi at McBride Consulting • Anthony Cerabino at Healthcare Wellness Center Acupuncture • Belinda Rubino ArtWear

CALL FOR ART

SUBMIT HERE

ANYTHING GOES welcomes all artistic disciplines, media, styles, or subject matter. Whether your work is traditional, contemporary, abstract, representational, or experimental, we encourage you to share your unique vision. There is no size limitation.  All ages are welcome to submit. No size limitation. All media will be considered. Dates to Remember: Submission Deadline: July 21 Artist Notification: July 22, end of business day Artwork Drop-Off: July 25 and July 28, 11am - 4pm Exhibition Dates: August 1 – August 31 Opening Reception: Friday, August 21, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM Artwork Pick-Up: September 1 - 5, 11am - 4pm Submission Fee: $25 for members (Become a Member at isliparts.org) $35 for non-members No previously exhibited works in our gallery will be accepted. Please be sure to complete all required information on this form.

CURRENT EXHIBITIONS

FEATURED ARTIST: MICHAEL GENRICH

On view June 23 - August 1 at the Islip Arts Council Gallery "Exposure" is Michael's first solo exhibition. It is a collection of abstract acrylic paintings created over a six-year period, offering an in-depth look at vulnerable aspects of his inner life. "Exposure" explores creativity, transformation, raw emotion, spirituality, and culminates in expressive effort, uncovering an important truth. Michael blends diverse textures, materials, colors, and creative techniques to express his inner landscape as authentically as possible.

CURRENTS: AQUATIC ART EXHIBIT AT MY TOWN'S CAFE

Currently on view at My Town's Cafe CURRENTS: An Aquatic Group Exhibition On view July 1 - August 31 Stop by the cafe for your favorite drink and enjoy the beautiful aquatic-themed work made by local artists!   Join us for the opening reception next Wednesday, July 8, from 6-8pm! Featured Artists: Lori Allen-Bauer Jennifer Bartlett Maria Boylan Bella Churgin Teresa Clark Caitlin Darbee Alyssa Denis Dennis Dubey Theresa Graff Karen Jakubowski Storm Keeler Colette Steinhauer AvaBlu Stephens Joann Trimarco Dawn Votapka Thomas Weiss

COMING SOON AT THE GALLERY

SUMMER MEMBERS EXHIBIT: COLOR & LIGHT

Islip Arts Council hosts bi-annual exhibitions for its members in the summer & winter. This summer, Islip Arts Council invited its membership to submit works for the Summer 2026 Members Exhibit, COLOR AND LIGHT: Works Inspired by the French Impressionists. French Impressionism was a radical late 19th-century art movement that broke from traditional, studio-based academic painting. Instead, artists endeavoured to capture fleeting moments, modern life, and the changing effects of light. Rather than focusing on sharp details, artists concentrated on how light defined a moment, often painting the same subject at different times of day.  Led by artists like Claude Monet, Auguste Renoir, and Edgar Degas, Impressionism paved the way for modern art by challenging, and eventually overturning, established conventions. IAC challenged its members to explore this classic style in modern day terms. On view July 7 - 31 Opening Reception: Saturday, July 18, 1-3pm FEATURED MEMBERS: Tolu Ayorinde Lori Allen-Bauer Esther Marie Caponigro Nori Cerny anne cognato Tove Hasselriis Abrams Karen Jakubowski Norma Malinverno LuAnn Palazzo Patricia Pepe-Clark Kelly Powell Bernice Rausch Betty Vaz Dawn Votapka

JULY WORKSHOPS

Register

Paint Like A Master Paint & Sip: Georgia O'Keeffe Sunflower, New Mexico 1 Saturday, July 18, 5-7 pm In our Paint Like A Master Series, students will paint their very own reproduction of a famous painting by well-known Old Masters - from Van Gogh to Kandinsky to Monet and beyond. Students will learn how to mix colors and learn a little bit of the history behind the paintings and the artists. This month, we recreate Georgia O'Keeffe's painting "Sunflower, New Mexico 1." All painting supplies and step-by-step demonstrations will be provided. No experience necessary. Feel free to bring a family member or a friend, and paint in a relaxing art gallery setting.  Must be 21+. Wine and light refreshments will be served. $40.00 All supplies included

Register

Life Drawing: Open Figure Workshops in the Gallery This uninstructed class is a great opportunity to get loose in drawing during short and long poses provided by the model. Bring a drawing pad, charcoal or pencils, or utilize the gallery supplies. Standing easels and table top easels will be provided upon request. Tuesday July 14. 6-8pm Saturday July 25, 12-2pm $20 per session

FREE CONCERT SERIES

Kicking off the start of Islip Arts Council's Free Summer Arts in the Parks is the Thursdays On The Bay series at the Long Island Maritime Museum. Bring a blanket or a chair and come wind down by the bay this July! 6PM start. Schedule: 7/9 Cafe Society Jazz Band 7/16 Three's Accompany 7/23 Chasing Time 7/30 East Street

Free Summer Concert Series at Bayard Cutting Arboretum Spend a Sunday afternoon at the beautiful Bayard Cutting Arboretum. Enjoy lunch at the Hidden Oak Cafe and bring a chair or blanket while listening to live music at the lower carriage house, along the Connetquot River. Concert begins at 2PM. Schedule: 7/12 Chasing Time 7/19 Nina Et Cetera 7/26 Janine Di Natale & Friends 8/2 Three's Accompany 8/9 Buddy Merriam 8/16 Easy Street 

Lunchtime Series "Brown Bag Concert" on Tuesdays at the Bay Shore Band Shell. Table and chairs provided. Take your lunch outdoors and enjoy the music! Concert begins at 12PM. Schedule: 7/14 Evan & James 7/21 Lady Blue Sax Quartet 7/28 Chasing Time 8/4 Gene Casey 8/11 The Karpenteers 8/18 Strawberry Gossip