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Art is everywhere in Cortland County, even during these difficult times. From gallery exhibitions to livestream events, virtual art classes and subscription kits, our creative community is finding fun, and unique ways to continue bringing joy and color into our lives.
The arts and theatre scene makes Cortland County a must-visit place, and until visitors can safely do so, how can we continue to help those individuals passionately involved in the creative community? Take a look at Experience Cortland's list of 10 ways to show your support.
1 - FIRST FRIDAY ART TOURS
Celebrate the arts and creativity during Cortland's First Friday Art Nights, held on the first Friday of every month. In lieu of physical art walk events, the Cultural Council of Cortland County have been broadcasting digital art content starting at noon through their Facebook page. Check out their website for February's schedule.
2 - COMMUNITY ARTS CHALLENGE
Browse the 11th Annual Community Arts Challenge exhibit at the Center for the Arts of Homer through February 27. The exhibit is a juried competition encouraging creativity within the Cortland County community. This year's theme is "Window". The gallery can be viewed Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. and by appointment. Please call ahead of your visit, (607) 749-4900 to assure safe viewing. If you do not feel comfortable viewing the exhibit in-person, you can browse the gallery online.
3 - PARTICIPATE IN AN ONLINE ART CLASS
Paint and sip with Cheerful & Creative Art Studio from the comfort of your home! Cortland's very own art studio is offering virtual 'paint parties' where you can paint alongside other at-home painters in one of their instructor-led painting events. All materials are provided, and video instructions will be become available via a private Facebook group.
If you feel comfortable attending a class in-person, their events calendar is always chock full of fun nights out with friends and family. With their variety of mediums to create art, such as reclaimed wood signs and windows, globes, canvas, and wine glasses, a fun, unique night is guaranteed no matter how many classes you attend.
4 - CAST YOUR VOTE
The Syracuse Area Music Awards (SAMMYs) are in full swing, and the Center for the Arts of Homer has made it to the top 8 for two categories in the People's Vote. It is up for nomination as a Venue, and for their '24 Hours for Cortland County' livestream event. You can vote here every day through February 7th to push them to the fifth round.
5 - CREATIVE CORTLAND
Have you ever wanted to submit your work to an art gallery? Now is your chance! The Cortland Repertory Theatre is looking for submissions for Creative Cortland, their 3rd Annual Community Visual Arts Exhibition. This year's theme is "Persist". The exhibit will run February 26 - March 14. Applications and entry fees must be received by CRT no later than February 8.
6 - ART SUBSCRIPTION BOXES
If you don't feel comfortable attending in-person art classes yet, several Cortland County studios are offering monthly subscription boxes that are delivered right to your door. Designz by Heather and Paint Social Co. have put together fun, and easy DIY monthly kits that any art connoisseur or novice can do. Kits include instructions, and all the materials you need to create a unique home décor piece.
Follow them on Facebook or sign-up for their newsletters to stay up-to-date on the latest crafts available, and future classes.
7 - EMBARK ON A VIRTUAL TOUR
Take a virtual tour of the Gary Sczerbaniewicz: The Tower and the Shard exhibit at the Dowd Gallery. The installation of the Buffalo-based sculptor consists of two bodies of work, including two-dimensional and sculptural pieces that invite the viewer for a unique visual experience. The exhibition, which opened in November, runs through mid-February and is open for digital viewing, or walk-ins.
8 - MAKE #BERNIEMITTENS
If you're looking to snag a pair of #BernieMittens for yourself, try your hand at making them yourself! Magpie Custom Creations is hosting classes to fashion your very own upcycled wool mittens. Cost is $25/person. Classes are available February 7, 11, 20 and 21. Call (607) 591-9652 or email magpiecortland@gmail.com for more details.
9 - SHAKE UP YOUR LISTENING HABITS
Instead of turning on Spotify, get your fix for all the latest tunes from your favorite CNY musicians during CNY Music Now. American Vintage Production teamed up with CFCU, X101 Always Classic, and Main Street Music Series, to bring you a second season of live performances from regional artists, as well as interviews to see what they've been up to.
Visit the Season One page to view the full performances and interviews at AV Studio in Rose Hall. New episodes are published every Tuesday and Friday at 8 p.m. Follow American Vintage Productions on Facebook for updates about the upcoming season.
10 - LIKE, FOLLOW & SHARE
Sharing snapshots of art and artists' pages on social media, whether it's through Facebook, or Instagram, can be very valuable to artists in giving them more exposure. Leaving a positive comment or review on a gallery, or artist's photo can not only be uplifting, but can help someone discover a piece of artwork they want to add to their collection.
Share your Cortland County adventures with us for a chance to be featured! Tag @experiencecortland and use hashtag #experiencecortland.