PREVIEW: Art for Good Comes to Beekman Street
10/25 @ Frederick Allen Elks Lodge, Saratoga
Historical Frederick Allen Lodge courtesy of SSAD
“[This is] a good way for people to enjoy something personally, but also help their money go to an organization that they feel is important.”
On October 25th, Saratoga Springs Art District will host Art for Good, a community art sale and creative gathering aimed at giving back.
The event will be at the Frederick Allen Elks Lodge from 11am-5pm. The public is invited to purchase artwork on a pay-what-you-can basis, with proceeds supporting several local organizations including the Saratoga Springs Arts District (SSADI), the Frederick Allen Elks Lodge and the Franklin Community Center.
“People are often very interested in helping their community, but they don't always know where to start. [This is] a good way for people to enjoy something personally, but also help their money go to an organization that they feel is important,” co-organizer and ceramic artist Rebecca Cigal says.
SSADI’s mission as a nonprofit is to promote emerging and local artists while creating an inclusive environment within their community. “People are going through a tough time and are not able to afford gifts, so I brought the idea to the board of SSADI and everybody loved it,” co-organizer and ceramic artist Nancy Niefield says. “I've been inundated with objects.”
Unlike a traditional art fair, Art for Good is built on the idea of generosity and accessibility. “A lot of artists have a lot of work and sometimes you just want to get it out into the public,” Cigal shares. “It’s a win-win. We clear out our studios, people get to enjoy the art, and it's helping organizations in the meantime.”
Over 100 artists who’ve been involved in Beekman Street’s historic creative community were invited to participate, and organizers expect a strong turnout. Visitors will be able to browse artwork displayed throughout the lodge, choose pieces they connect with, and decide how much to pay.
The day will also feature a watercolor painting lesson led by painter Rebecca Peters from 12pm-2pm and an acrylic painting lesson by painter Alice Kaplan from 2pm-4pm. The workshops will offer an opportunity for visitors of all ages and experience levels to try their hand at painting in a relaxed, community-oriented environment.
For many involved, Art for Good marks the continuation of a grassroots tradition. Similar fundraisers have been organized in the past on a smaller scale, but this marks the first time it’s expanding to include a broad network of Beekman Street artists and multiple organizations.
“It’s great that Nancy spearheaded this,” Cigal says. “We were just chatting about the idea, and she made it happen. Hopefully this becomes something that spreads — helping artists and communities at the same time.”
“I hope it helps people,” Niefield adds. “The point is to give people some beautiful things and give some money to where it's needed.”
Whether you come to find a new piece of art, paint for the afternoon, or simply connect with Saratoga’s creative community, Art for Good promises to be an afternoon of generosity, creativity, and local spirit.
For more information, visit https://saratogaartdistrict.com/event/art-for-good/
