From the CEO

The arts are fundamental to our humanity, our economy and the wellbeing of our society.

“Community is about doing something together that makes belonging matter.” - Brian Solis, businessman & author

Dear Friends of ArtsWestchester:

If there is an underlying theme in our work in 2019, it is one of enlivening communities. Working together with artists and arts groups, we supported creative and compassionate arts activities throughout Westchester. With support from county and state government, our $1.3M grants program supported hundreds of community arts groups in both Westchester and Rockland Counties. With vital support from White Plains Hospital and Con Edison, ArtsWestchester launched the ArtsMobile, a groundbreaking program to bring hands-on arts activities to diverse communities throughout the County. Site visits to senior communities, family centers and housing projects served more than 2,200 children and adults in 2019. Through our public art and folk arts programs, we celebrated the vibrancy that both contemporary and traditional arts lend to our varied communities. ArtsWestchester brought art

activities to schools, mental health communities and neighborhoods all over Westchester. We thank all of you for your support and participation in ArtsWestchester’s growing community and encourage you to find new ways of getting involved next year! We need your help now more than ever.

Cordially,

Janet T. Langsam CEO, ArtsWestchester

FROM THE PRESIDENT

To the Many Friends, Supporters, Patrons and Lovers of the Arts:

When ArtsWestchester first rolled out its Gotta Love the Arts campaign, it was with the intent of expanding people’s notions about what art is and what it can be. We wanted people to know that the arts include dancing in the streets, painting murals on construction barricades, drumming circles, Instagram Stories, poetry, folk arts and more! We wanted to help people to embrace their creativity. When it came to inspiring neighborhoods with activities led by professional artists, ArtsWestchester’s new ArtsMobile was there with hands-on activities designed for entire families to enjoy. Sometimes it was through painting, other times it was through clay projects, music or dance. Our pairing of professional artists with the new arts van brought free ArtsMobile activities to underserved communities throughout Westchester. Additionally, our Teen Tuesdays & Thursdays program continued to expand, providing a safe and inspiring place for teens to create and socialize in a free after-school arts program held in ArtsWestchester’s gallery.

Now at the end of 2019, our Young Adult Leadership Council, supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, is designed to be a career and college readiness program for youth aged 16-21. I am proud to lead a diverse, creative and proactive group of individuals who take great pride in this organization and the incredible growth that it continues to foster in our community.

Thank you all for your support throughout 2019,

Michael Minihan President, ArtsWestchester