Folk Arts
Valerie and Ben Turner,
Piedmont Blues
Friday, 5/3
Folk Art is the work of skilled artisans, traditional performers, storytellers and others whose practice builds on a foundation of family or community based culture, or trades learned in apprenticeships with skilled masters. Folk Arts are typically not learned in art schools, conservatories or dance academies, but from parents, grandparents, skilled mentors and community based teachers. These artists don’t strive to make totally original expressions; instead their art expresses something very deep about their roots. In celebrating folk traditions, ArtsWestchester acknowledges and honors the skilled arts of our region and the places of origin of Westchester’s many immigrant communities. The region’s cultural diversity is a great asset to our community, and an important means of sharing and breaking down barriers between neighbors and communities
ArtsWestchester’s Folk Arts Program began in 1996, documenting a vital work tradition in the region: the work of past and contemporary stonemasons. Since then, the program has presented at least half a dozen public programs each years, documenting and highlighting the diverse cultures of Westchester, as well as collaborating with partner organizations throughout the county, and offering promotional and cultural development services to artists, community groups and cultural organizations seeking to present folk arts in their own venues.
Next Events
An Evening of Piedmont Blues featuring Phil Wiggins Friday 5.3.13 @ 8pm >>>click here for tickets and more info
Recent Projects
Collaboration: Mexican Big Read program at New Rochelle Public Library
Kofi Donkor & Sonkofa at 2010 One Peekskill Concert
> Call to artists
> Folk Arts resources
> Folk Arts Forum
View past programs: 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2004
The Folk Arts program receives support from the New York State Council on the Arts and from the National Endowment for the Arts.
