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Thousand Islands Arts Center Issues Call for Community Instructors

CLAYTON, N.Y. — The Thousand Islands Arts Center is putting out a community-wide call for instructors as it prepares for an exciting year of hands-on arts programming. With the opening of the Arts Center’s new facility on the horizon, staff are eager to expand the range of classes offered and ensure the lineup reflects the creativity and interests of the region.

The Arts Center is inviting community members of all backgrounds to share their artistic talents. Whether you specialize in pottery, pastel painting, oil painting, cartoon drawing, jewelry making, fiber arts, or any other visual medium, the Arts Center wants to hear from you. In addition to traditional art forms, the team is also seeking instructors interested in leading craft-focused workshops—everything from seasonal and holiday themed activities to unique, one-off projects that community members can learn and enjoy.

“Our new arts center is community-focused at its core,” said Education & Communications Coordinator Katherine Lake. “We want to build an education program that reflects the passions of our region, and that means working directly with the people who make this community so creative.”

The Arts Center is also encouraging residents to share ideas for classes they’d like to see added to the schedule. Community input will play a key role in shaping offerings for 2026 and beyond.

Anyone interested in becoming an instructor or proposing a class is encouraged to contact Katherine Lake at katherine@tiartscenter.org or by calling 315-686-4123 ext. 200.

Thousand Islands Arts Center Announces Two New Trustees

Clayton, NY — The Thousand Islands Arts Center has announced the appointment of two new Trustees, Meredith Bonisteel Nims and Samuel Ames Wardwell, who will officially join the Board of Trustees in January 2026.

Meredith and Sam will fill the positions previously held by longtime Trustees Harriet Burris and Chris Murray, whose years of service, volunteerism, and support have played a significant role in the success and growth of the Arts Center. While Harriet and Chris will be missed on the Board, both will remain active members of the Arts Center community.
Meredith Bonisteel Nims brings a lifelong connection to the arts, having been raised in a family of artists and educated at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, where she studied color theory, print design, and art history. A year-round Clayton resident working in the Human Resources field, Meredith draws inspiration from the natural beauty of the St. Lawrence River and is deeply connected to the region’s creative community.


Samuel Ames Wardwell joins the Board with extensive experience in investment strategy and asset management. He spent many years as an Investment Strategist at Pioneer Investments and previously held senior roles at State Street Research & Management and Wellington Management. A Williams College graduate, Sam maintains strong family ties to Sackets Harbor, New York, and is actively involved in community land stewardship through Wardwell Shore Farm, Inc.


“Meredith and Sam each bring an incredible blend of professional expertise, creative vision, and personal connection to our organization,” said Mia Ramseier, Executive Director of the Thousand Islands Arts Center. “At the same time, we remain profoundly grateful to Harriet and Chris for their years of leadership and dedication. As our organization enters an exciting new chapter of growth, we are continually inspired by the caliber of individuals who step forward to lead and serve.”


In that spirit, the Thousand Islands Arts Center is always seeking passionate and dedicated individuals interested in helping shape the future of the organization. Board members play a vital role in supporting the mission, ensuring strong governance, and guiding strategic growth. Those interested in contributing their time, expertise, and commitment to the arts are encouraged to explore this meaningful opportunity.

“We are always open to new voices, fresh ideas, and community-minded leaders who believe in the power of the arts,” added Ramseier. “The strength of our organization is built on the people who choose to invest their talents here.”


For more information on how to be considered for Board service, please contact Mia Ramseier at mia@tiartscenter.org; or call 315-686-4123.

The Thousand Islands Arts Center awarded $49,500 by the New York State Council on the Arts

CLAYTON, NY – The Thousand Islands Arts Center has been awarded $49,500 toward the 2026 budget, as part of a two-year general operating grant from the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA). The multi-year funding provides the organization with a predictable income stream and reflects NYSCA’s confidence in the Arts Center’s track record and ongoing operations. Through New York State’s continued investment in arts and culture, NYSCA has awarded $80.9 million in FY 2026 to arts and culture nonprofits across all 10 regions and a historic number of artists.


“New York’s arts and culture sector is a cornerstone of the state’s identity, and we’re making bold investments to ensure it remains strong,” Governor Hochul said. “These grants will lift up artists and organizations in every region, fueling local economies and expanding access to the arts. Congratulations to all the grantees – your talent and dedication help power New York’s future.”


“Receiving this multi-year grant for general operations is a profound endorsement of the essential role the Arts Center plays in our community”, said Arts Center Executive Director Mia Ramseier. “This funding ensures our ability to operate with confidence and consistency, expand our outreach and programming, and ensure that art remains an accessible and engaging experience for all members of our community.”


NYSCA’s Executive Director Erika Mallin said, “During these challenging times, the New York State Council on the Arts has been a stalwart and innovative funder. These grants will serve artists and organizations in every region and county, fueling our economy and serving our communities. We know this support isn’t just an investment in the arts; it’s an investment in New York’s future. Congratulations to the Thousand Islands Arts Center and thank you for your perseverance, your creativity, and your tireless service to New York State.”


NYSCA’s Chair Patrick Willingham said, “With the unwavering support of Governor Hochul and our Legislature, the Council is proud to congratulate this year’s grantees, whose collective efforts strengthen and benefit us all. I also want to recognize the work of NYSCA’s panelists, staff, and the entire Council, whose dedication has ensured that this critical support will reach every corner of New York State.”


About the New York State Council on the Arts:

The mission of the New York State Council on the Arts is to foster and advance the full breadth of New York State’s arts, culture, and creativity for all. To support the ongoing recovery of the arts across New York State, the Council on the Arts will award over $161 million in FY 2026, serving organizations and artists across all 10 state regions. The Council on the Arts further advances New York’s creative culture by convening leaders in the field and providing organizational and professional development opportunities and informational resources. Created by Governor Nelson Rockefeller in 1960 and continued with the support of Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature, the Council is an agency that is part of the Executive Branch.


For more information on NYSCA, please visit arts.ny.gov, and follow NYSCA’s Facebook page on X @NYSCArts and Instagram @NYSCouncilontheArts.


About the Thousand Islands Arts Center:
The Thousand Islands Arts Center ~ Home of the Handweaving Museum is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the art of handweaving and promoting arts education throughout the North Country. The Arts Center offers classes, exhibitions, and events for artists of all ages and skill levels, nurturing creativity and cultural engagement in the region.

The Elves’ Fair Returns for Its Fourth Year of Festive Fun in Clayton

CLAYTON, NY – The Thousand Islands Arts Center is delighted to announce the return of its beloved Elves’ Fair, back for its fourth year on Saturday, December 6, 2025, from 9am to 2pm at 314 John Street in Clayton.

This cherished annual tradition transforms the Arts Center into a winter wonderland filled with festive fun. The Elves’ Fair is a juried holiday art and craft market, offering visitors the opportunity to discover one-of-a-kind gifts, handmade treasures, seasonal décor, and artisanal treats created by talented local vendors, perfect for completing your holiday shopping.


In addition to the market, families can enjoy a variety of seasonal activities. Children can participate in holiday crafts led by local high school students, and guests of all ages will be delighted by a petting zoo featuring special visitors from the “North Pole.” The event will also include raffle baskets filled with local goodies, a free hot cocoa bar, a toy drive to benefit the
Victims Assistance Center of Jefferson County, and other festive surprises throughout the day. The Arts Center will again host its popular pie and baked goods sale, beginning at 9am and available while supplies last.


“We are always pleased to host this family- and community-oriented event,” said Katherine Lake, Education and Communications Coordinator. “The Elves’ Fair brings together creativity, local talent, and the spirit of the season, and we’re thrilled to welcome everyone back for another unforgettable year.”


The Elves’ Fair is free, family-friendly, and open to the public. All are invited to stop by, support local artisans, and spread some holiday cheer.

Thousand Islands Arts Center Names New Events & Membership Coordinator

Clayton, NY – The Thousand Islands Arts Center (TIAC) is pleased to announce the appointment
of Lynn Thompson as its new Events and Membership Coordinator. Lynn brings a dynamic
blend of experience in development, fundraising, finance management, and hospitality- making
her a valuable addition to the TIAC team as the organization prepares for an exciting chapter of
growth.


Originally from North Carolina, Lynn moved to Northern New York in 2002 and quickly fell in
love with the charming, picturesque village of Clayton. Her deep appreciation for the
community, paired with her professional background, fuels her passion for supporting local
nonprofits.


In her most recent role in development, Lynn successfully planned and executed numerous
fundraising initiatives, strengthening her devotion to mission-driven work. Her career has
spanned multiple sectors, including finance and hospitality management, equipping her with a
versatile skill set well-suited for coordinating TIAC’s expanding events and membership
programs.


“Lynn’s positive energy, creativity, and dedication to building strong community connections
make her a perfect fit for the Arts Center,” said Mia Ramseier, Executive Director of the
Thousand Islands Arts Center. “We are thrilled to welcome her to the team as we continue to
grow and prepare for the opening of our new facility.”


The Thousand Islands Arts Center looks forward to the leadership and experience Lynn will
bring to its events, member engagement, and community outreach efforts.

Thousand Islands Arts Center Receives Grant from RBC Wealth Management to Support Youth Arts Programming

Clayton, NY — October 29, 2025— The Thousand Islands Arts Center (TIAC) is proud to announce
it has been awarded a $2,000 grant from RBC Wealth Management through the RBC Foundation –
USA in support of TIAC’s Youth Arts Programming.

This generous funding will directly support instructor costs, material fees, and continued growth
within the Arts Center’s education department. With a newly expanded facility and three
additional classrooms — including one dedicated entirely to children’s programming — TIAC is
poised to welcome even more students, instructors, and opportunities for creative learning.


“This grant from RBC Wealth Management helps us continue to inspire the next generation of
artists,” said Katherine Lake, Education & Communications Coordinator. “It supports hands-on
education, makes our programs more accessible, and strengthens our ability to offer high-quality
arts experiences for youth throughout our community.”


The TIAC’s Youth Arts Programming provides children with an engaging, supportive
environment to explore creativity, develop new skills, and build confidence through the arts.
From painting and pottery to weaving and mixed media, young artists are encouraged to express
themselves while connecting with peers and professional instructors.


The Thousand Islands Arts Center extends its sincere gratitude to RBC Wealth Management for
recognizing the value of arts education and for its continued investment in community
enrichment. As the Arts Center continues to grow, this support helps open the door to new
possibilities for local youth and families.

Threads That Bind Us: The Thousand Islands Arts Center Connects a Global Community Through the Art of Fiber

Clayton, NY — October 22, 2025— Every thread tells a story. For the weavers, historians, and artists who gather each year for the Thousand Islands Arts Center’s Weaving History Conference (WHC), those stories are what bring the past to life—and weave new connections across continents.

What began as a small event has evolved into an international gathering, uniting textile enthusiasts through shared passion, history, and creativity.  Now in its 30th year, the 2025 WHC continues to expand its reach, welcoming hundreds of participants from across the United States and Canada, as well as from Ukraine, Chile, France, England, Singapore, and Scotland.

For Halyna Shepko, that connection is deeply personal. Shepko, one of 20 presenters at this year’s WHC, works closely with the women of The Krolovets Weaving Museum in Ukraine and served as translator for the presenters from Ukraine. Her love for weaving runs through every part of her life.

Shepko said, “I’m caught up in the web of weaving, I admit—it’s my addiction. Finding out about the Weaving History Conference offered me a place to connect with others caught in the web, listen to what others are discovering, and hear about aspects of textiles I hadn’t even considered. We find we are not alone with our passion. Many times, I work for hours on my weaving, and it can be isolating. This conference gave me the opportunity to share what I’m working on and hear what others are finding.”

For Shepko and many others, the WHC is not just about techniques or textiles—it’s about connection. “Weaving can be an escape, but it can also be a way of connecting—into history, traditions, and one another.”

That sense of community has only deepened since the conference moved online during the pandemic. While it once took place in person, its virtual format has opened the sharing of the historical impact of an ancient craft with the world, allowing more people than ever to join, share, and celebrate the enduring artistry of handweaving.

“The Weaving History Conference embodies what the Arts Center does best—bringing people together through creativity and culture,” said Marina Loew, Assistant Director and Curator at the Arts Center. “The stories, the skills, and the shared passion for fiber arts remind us that weaving isn’t just craft—it’s communication. It connects us to each other and to centuries of tradition.”

Looking ahead, the Arts Center is already preparing for the next WHC. Whether an attendee is an experienced weaver, a museum professional, or simply captivated by the beauty of woven threads, the conference offers an inspiring space to learn, reflect, and connect with a worldwide creative network.

Arts Center receives tech grant

CLAYTON, NY (September 15, 2025) – The Thousand Islands Arts Center ~ Home of the
Handweaving Museum is thrilled to announce the receipt of $2,000 from the Micro Grant
Program of the Northern New York Community Foundation. Funds will be used in support of
various technology upgrades being implemented across the organization, including digital
transaction capabilities.


“This grant represents an investment in the operational health of our organization,” said
Executive Director Sarah Riddoch. “Upgrading our laptops and point-of-sale equipment will
significantly reduce technical downtime, allowing our staff to be more productive and better
serve the community.”


The Northern New York Community Foundation has been a longtime supporter of arts and
culture in the region, and this grant underscores its commitment to fostering creativity and
community engagement.


The Arts Center is deeply grateful to the Community Foundation for its generous and ongoing
support.


About the Thousand Islands Arts Center ~ Home of the Handweaving Museum


Serving the North Country region of New York State for over 50 years, wthe arts center is the
oldest of its kind in the region and the only handweaving museum dedicated to handwoven
textiles produced in the United States. It maintains a year-round exhibition schedule, a
permanent handwoven textile collection and a complementary library, and two dedicated studios
for pottery and weaving. In 2023-2024, it supported 150 local school students, 800 adult
students, welcomed more than 1,500 visitors to our galleries, and managed a successful online
presence. TIAC offers a living museum through our weaving studio, where visitors can observe
looms in action every Wednesday year-round. The annual Weaving History Conference,
entering its 30th year, attracts over 250 academics, scholars, and fiber enthusiasts worldwide.


About Northern New York Community Foundation


Since 1929, the Northern New York Community Foundation has invested in improving and
enriching the quality of life for all in communities across Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence
counties.


Through partnerships with businesses and organizations, charitable foundations, and
generous families and individual donors, the Community Foundation awards grants and
scholarships from an endowment and collection of funds that benefit the region. Its commitment
to donors helps individuals achieve their charitable objectives now and for generations to come
by preserving and honoring legacies of community philanthropy while inspiring others.

The Community Foundation is a resource for local charitable organizations, donors,
professional advisors, and nonprofit organizations. It also works to bring people together at its
permanent home in the Northern New York Philanthropy Center to discuss challenges our
communities face and find creative solutions that strengthen the region and make it a great
place to live, work, and play.

After School Art classes to begin at the Arts Center

CLAYTON – The Thousand Islands Arts Center is excited to announce its Fall After School Arts Program,
running Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:30 to 5 p.m., beginning October 14 through December 11.
Designed for children ages 5–12, the program will be held at the Arts Center, 314 John Street, Clayton.

Each week features a new creative project, combining fun with skill-building. This fall’s lineup includes:
Combining Art with Science, Neon Skeletons, Spooktacular, Whoo-Hoo, Drip, Swirl, and Whirl, Bejeweled
Pumpkins, Holiday Gifts for Loved Ones, and Puffy Paint Snow Angels. After a brief introduction, students
dive into hands-on projects and take home a finished piece each session.

Instructors include Nicky Badour, Thousand Islands Central School District high school art teacher; Maria
VanPelt, La Fargeville Central School District teacher; and Annie DeStefanis, former elementary school
teacher.

Registration is required. Fees range from $20 for a single class to $225 for the full 16-class session.
Scholarships are available. For details on classes, registration, and financial aid, please visit
TIArtCenter.org or call Katherine at 315-686-4123 ext. 200.

Funding for the Arts Center’s Youth Programming is generously provided by New York State Council on
the Arts.

The Thousand Islands Arts Center is a private, nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and
promoting traditional arts and handcrafts through education, exhibitions, and community engagement.
Home to a nationally renowned permanent collection and library of handwoven textiles, the Arts Center
offers a wide range of programs for learners of all ages and levels, from beginners to professional artists.
Its mission is to advance art, craft, and its unique textile collection through education and exhibition.

Arts Center Receives Federal Funding Through SAT Grant

CLAYTON, NY (September 15, 2025) – The Thousand Islands Arts Center ~ Home of the Handweaving Museum is thrilled to announce that they have been selected to receive $227,626 in federal funding through the Save America’s Treasures (SAT) Grant Program. Funds are being awarded in support of the conservation of their Handweaving Collection.

The federal funds, awarded by the National Park Service, will support the construction of their new building at 321 James Street, including a new and accessible home for the Handweaving Museum. Grant funds will support the installation of exterior and interior envelopes and finishes and the purchase of museum-quality storage solutions.

“Being selected for this prestigious and competitive grant is a powerful testament to the national significance of our collection and the lasting value of the Arts Center to our community,” said Executive Director Sarah Riddoch. “This funding ensures we can continue to be a vital resource for 20th-century handweavers for years to come, solidifying our positive impact and longevity.”

The SAT grant program is dedicated to preserving and conserving nationally significant structures and collections. The Handweaving Museum is one of the most valuable resources of 20th-century handweavers in the country, composed predominantly of well-known weavers including Berta Frey, Elmer Hickman, Mary Meigs Atwater, and Marguerite Porter Davison. These weavers, and many more in our collection, were instrumental in keeping the craft of handweaving alive at a time when textile production was moving towards large-scale mechanized technologies.

In parallel with the construction, Assistant Director & Curator Marina Loew and a dedicated team of volunteers will be preparing the collection for its new home. This crucial work includes a comprehensive review of the current condition of each piece, assessing any restoration needs, and updating its physical housing to ensure its long-term preservation. This dual focus on building infrastructure and curatorial care underscores our commitment to protecting this valuable national collection.

The Save America’s Treasures grant program was established in 1998 to celebrate America’s premier cultural resources in the new millennium. After more than 20 years, this grant program has awarded over 1,300 grants totaling more than $300 million to projects across the United States. Annually, 4,000-plus applications request approximately $1.5 billion in funding in support of nationally significant historic properties and collections that convey our nation’s rich heritage to future generations.

The National Park Service administers Save America’s Treasures grants in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts, the National Endowment for the Humanities, and the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

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ARTS CENTER

TUESDAY-THURSDAY, 9am-5pm

Staff working remotely Monday & Friday

Please note: We are closed on all federal holidays.

 

FINDERS KEEPERS

WEDNESDAY-SATURDAY, 10am-4pm
Memorial Day – Columbus Day
Contact the store manager for more information at (315) 748-2088

 

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The Thousand Islands Arts Center's programming made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.

POTTERY STUDIO

Classes by appointment. Please contact the pottery studio at (315) 686-4123 x205 to schedule!

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