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Weavers from Seven States Travel to Clayton for Research Retreat at the Thousand Islands Arts Center

CLAYTON, NY — This May, the Thousand Islands Arts Center ~ Home of the Handweaving Museum welcomed an extraordinary gathering of handweavers, textile scholars, and educators for its annual three-day “Archive Raiders” retreat. Participants traveled from seven states — Alabama, Maine, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee — to study, preserve, and explore one of the country’s most significant collections of American handwoven textiles and weaving resources.

The retreat began with a half-day fabric analysis workshop led by Professor Patrice George of the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT). Using magnification tools, tweezers, graph paper, and pencils, participants carefully analyzed historic textiles to document thread counts, weave structures, and technical construction methods. Their findings will support future textile analysis efforts and strengthen the Museum’s ability to interpret and preserve its collection for future generations.

Throughout the retreat, the Archive Raiders also assisted in identifying pieces for the Museum’s upcoming grand opening exhibition, Weave Across America, in the new, permanent Sonja Wahl Weaving Gallery. Volunteers researched and documented the stories behind selected American weavers and their works, helping provide historical and cultural context for exhibit visitors.

“We are incredibly grateful to these weavers for their passion, dedication, and commitment to working with our textile collections,” said Marina Loew, Curator. Their knowledge, generosity, and enthusiasm help strengthen our mission to preserve and share the rich history of handweaving for future generations. Having this level of expertise gathered here in Clayton is truly special.”

Participants additionally collaborated on long-term ideas for expanding the Museum’s role as a national resource for handweavers, educators, and researchers. Discussions focused on attracting new generations of weavers, inspiring advanced practitioners, and continuing to modernize and expand the Museum’s educational resources while preserving traditional knowledge.

Several Raiders, including weaving instructors Marjie Thompson, Jayne Flanagan, and Emery Hall, spent time combing through the Museum’s library and textile archives searching for authentic historical weaving samples and documentation. These discoveries will inform future weaving workshops and educational programming taught across the country.

Archive Raider Sally Orgren continued ongoing work digitizing sample pages from the Cross Country Weavers (CCW) notebooks — an extraordinary collection housed at the Handweaving Museum. Since 1958, the Cross Country Weavers have brought together some of the nation’s most accomplished handweavers to create and exchange samples based on annual themes and rigorous technical standards. The digitization project will help expand future online access to these important weaving resources. 

For many participants, the opportunity to physically access the Museum’s extensive library and textile archives was a rare and invaluable experience. The combination of unique historical materials, scholarly collaboration, and shared curiosity sparked countless discoveries and conversations throughout the retreat.

The Archive Raiders retreat reflects the growing national recognition of the Handweaving Museum as a premier destination for the study, preservation, and celebration of handweaving in America.

Watertown Savings Bank in support of the Arts Center’s Campus Expansion project

CLAYTON, NY (May 12, 2026) – The Thousand Islands Arts Center is proud to announce a significant $50,000 contribution from Watertown Savings Bank in support of the Arts Center’s Campus Expansion project.

The contribution will help fund the interior build-out and final phase of construction for the new Arts Center at 321 James Street, scheduled to open in June 2026. The cornerstone of the Arts Center’s expanding campus, the new facility will meaningfully increase the Arts Center’s capacity to serve residents and visitors through exhibitions, educational programming, artist workshops, and community events.

The new building establishes a permanent home for the Handweaving Museum while expanding gallery space and educational offerings. It includes three ADA-compliant classrooms, one dedicated to children’s programming, as well as a third-floor weaving and artist studio overlooking the St. Lawrence River. Upon completion, the Arts Center campus will connect the historic location on John Street with the new James Street building, creating an arts destination that brings together pottery studios, green spaces, and expanded parking.

“We are incredibly grateful for the support of Watertown Savings Bank and their commitment to investing in the future of our community,” says Executive Director Mia Ramseier. “This project is about more than a building; it is about creating a welcoming space where creativity, education, and culture can take root for generations to come. Partnerships like this make that vision possible.”

The Arts Center will celebrate the grand opening of the 321 James Street facility on June 27, 2026, during its annual Summer Arts Kick-Off event.

As construction enters its final phase, the Arts Center invites the community to learn more about the campus expansion and the Weaving Our Future Together campaign at TIArtsCenter.org or by following the Center on social media.

Founded in 1893, Watertown Savings Bank has a longstanding history of supporting individuals, businesses, and nonprofits throughout Northern New York. Their investment in the Thousand Islands Arts Center reflects a shared commitment to strengthening communities and the cultural life of the region.

Arts Center Presents Thousand Islands Middle & High School Student Showcase — Final Exhibition on John Street

Clayton, NY — The Thousand Islands Arts Center is proud to present the Thousand Islands Middle & High School Showcase, now on view in the Catherine C. Johnson Gallery through April 24. This special exhibition highlights the creativity and talent of students from the Thousand Islands Central School District and marks a meaningful milestone for the Arts Center, as it will be the final exhibition held in the historic John Street building before the organization transitions to its new home at 321 James Street.

The showcase features an impressive range of student work across many artistic disciplines, including pottery, photography, graphic design, painting, drawing, and more. The exhibition reflects the dedication and imagination of local students while demonstrating the strength of arts education within the Thousand Islands community.

The community is warmly invited to visit and experience the exhibition firsthand. A special reception celebrating the students, their families, and the wider community will take place on April 22 from 6:00–7:30 PM. During the reception, students from the school chorus will perform a short musical selection, adding a celebratory note to the evening.

Throughout the duration of the exhibition, visitors will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite works. At the conclusion of the reception, the People’s Choice Awards will be announced for both a middle school artist and a high school artist, recognizing outstanding student work as voted on by the community. Each winning student will receive a cash award in recognition of their achievement.

Also featured in the exhibition are Senior Spotlights, showcasing impressive portfolios from graduating students and highlighting the remarkable talent emerging from the local arts community.

“The Middle School and High School Art Exhibition is one of the most meaningful moments in our year,” said Mia Ramseier, Executive Director of the Thousand Islands Arts Center. “It celebrates the creativity and imagination of young artists while reminding our community that the future of the arts is taking shape right here. Seeing their work displayed in a gallery setting is an exciting milestone, and we hope it inspires a lifelong connection to creativity.”

For more information about visiting hours and upcoming programs, please visit TIArtsCenter.org or follow the Arts Center on social media.

Thousand Islands Arts Center Welcomes New Members to Board of Trustees

Clayton, NY — The Thousand Islands Arts Center is pleased to announce the appointment of two new members to its Board of Trustees: Justin Taylor and Peter Eckstein. Both bring extensive leadership experience, deep community ties, and a strong commitment to service that will help guide the Arts Center into its next chapter of growth and impact.

Justin Taylor is a lifelong public servant and dedicated community leader in Clayton, New York. A graduate of Jefferson Community College with a degree in Business Administration, Justin also completed graduate-level leadership training during his career. He retired in 2018 after more than three decades in law enforcement, including serving as Director of Safety for the New York State Department of Corrections and later as Superintendent of Gouverneur Correctional Facility, where he oversaw 400 staff and more than 1,000 inmates. He has been recognized as an expert witness in safety matters in both state and federal courts.

In addition to his professional career, Justin served the Town of Clayton for 25 years as a Town Board Member and later as Town Supervisor. A 50-year member of the Clayton Fire Department, he continues to serve in leadership roles across numerous local and regional organizations. Justin and his wife, Debra, are proud parents and grandparents and remain deeply committed to their family and the Clayton community.

Peter Eckstein has maintained a strong connection to Clayton for more than 40 years, having met his wife, Mary (Eppolito), who grew up in the community. After living overseas for many years, Peter and Mary returned five years ago and now spend their summers on Bartlett Point. Peter also serves on the Board of River Hospital, where he is Chair of the Finance Committee.

Peter’s professional career was rooted in banking and finance. In 2021, he retired from JPMorgan after nearly 30 years in leadership roles across New York, Singapore, Sydney, Tokyo, and Hong Kong. He and Mary are based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, for the remainder of the year.

“We are thrilled to welcome Justin and Peter to our Board of Trustees,” said Executive Director Mia Ramseier. “Their combined experience in leadership, governance, finance, and public service will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen the Arts Center’s role as a cultural hub for our region.”

The Thousand Islands Arts Center looks forward to the insight and dedication these new trustees will bring in support of its mission to inspire creativity, connect community, and enrich lives through the arts.

For more information about the Thousand Islands Arts Center and its programs, please visit TIArtsCenter.org or call 315-686-4123.

Grant from the CAR-FRESHNER Corporation Charitable Fund

CLAYTON, NY (January 26, 2026) – The Thousand Islands Arts Center is thrilled to announce a grant from the CAR-FRESHNER Corporation Charitable Fund of the Northern New York Community Foundation. These funds will directly support the interior build-out of the Arts Center’s new state-of-the-art facility at 321 James Street. 

Scheduled for completion this spring, the new Arts Center will establish a permanent home for the Handweaving Museum while significantly expanding exhibition galleries and educational offerings. The facility will include three ADA-compliant classrooms, one dedicated specifically to children’s programming, as well as a third-floor studio where expansive windows provide weavers and artists with inspiring views of the St. Lawrence River. Upon completion, the Arts Center’s campus will span from the historic cottage on John Street to the new James Street building, incorporating a pottery studio, green spaces, and expanded parking.

“We are honored to have the support of CAR-FRESHNER, a partner with a history of supporting our Northern New York community for nearly 75 years,” says Executive Director Mia Ramseier. “Having their investment arrive as we mark our 60th Anniversary is incredibly fitting. It recognizes the shared value both our organizations bring to the region.”

The Arts Center will celebrate the grand opening of the 321 James Street building on June 27, 2026, as part of its annual Summer Arts Kick-Off event.

As construction enters its final phase, the Arts Center invites the community to learn more about the campus expansion and its Weaving Our Future Together campaign by visiting https://tiartscenter.org/new-arts-center/.

CAR-FRESHNER Corporation is the company behind the Little Trees brand air fresheners. It is headquartered in Watertown, New York. In late 2024, CAR-FRESHNER Corporation partnered with the Northern New York Community Foundation to establish the CAR-FRESHNER Corporation Charitable Fund at the Community Foundation. The CAR-FRESHNER Corporation Charitable Fund is designed to support community programs, projects, and initiatives.

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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.

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The Thousand Islands Arts Center's programming is made possible in part by the Mary and Ted Mascott Children’s Art Fund, established to support children’s access to the arts, funding from RBC Foundation USA, and the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the State of New York.

POTTERY STUDIO

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

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