Schenectady hardly originated the idea of an arts district, but it’s in the process of creating a good one. Proctors, of course, is the linchpin, but arts can be found all around downtown — and will certainly be this weekend with the first-ever Schenectady Art Attack. The organizers, including county and city historian Don Rittner and City Council member Barbara Blanchard, see it as a fun way to usher in spring, showcase local artists and build on the successful Art Night that is held every third Friday. And they haven’t exactly started small. While the event will fall short of the 1,000 artists — painters, sculptors, photographers, musicians, poets, et al. — they’d hoped for, they now have around 500 from the Capital Region and beyond. Visitors will be able to see them and their works and performances free at various venues including City Hall (the organizers see it as a starting point, with brochures, maps, etc.), the public library, the Hellenic Center, shops along Jay Street, the SACC TV studio on North Broadway and Robb Alley at Proctors. ..............>>>>..............>>>>...............http://www.dailygazette.net/De.....r01104&AppName=1
SCHENECTADY Art Attack offers cultural adventure Weekend event is draw for residents BY AMEERAH CETAWAYO Gazette Reporter
Papier-maché animals sitting in Schenectady City Hall gave local resident Sarah Sweet a sense that the city is becoming a better place. “If they have nice things to do in Schenectady our property values might go up,” Sweet said. “Hopefully the reconstruction will bleed up State Street.” Sweet was one of more than 5,000 people expected to take part in the first annual Schenectady Art Attack, a free weekend event featuring the work of 500 artists scattered at 23 venues throughout the city. At City Hall, hundreds passed through the doors on Saturday, the first day of spring. Songs from the band Flood Road, performing in City Council chambers, could be heard from outside, while displays and exhibits kept onlookers busy inside. Sweet said the event was good for her 10-month-old daughter, Olivia. “She likes the music.” Organizers are hoping the free event, planned to be held each spring, will become an economic driver. “People come downtown who haven’t been here for years, and they find it’s not a crime-ridden place. It’s very safe,” said City Councilwoman Barbara Blanchard. “So they’re likely to come back, and I hope they’re having lunch.” ..................>>>>.....................>>>>................http://www.dailygazette.net/De.....r02001&AppName=1
Ya, Papier-maché animals put a tingle up my pants too Sarah. Show me the tax relief that Metroplex promised for ALL of Schenectady, not just a few select blocks. Show me the "renaissance" promised. It's been 10 years now - when does the promise get fulfilled?