Thousand Islands Arts Center Fosters Community Through Vibrant Summer Programming
CLAYTON – The Thousand Islands Arts Center ~Home of the Handweaving Museum is thrilled
to announce a summer packed with engaging programs as well as significant progress on its
campus expansion, all designed to deepen community connections through the arts. This past
Saturday, the Arts Center started the season with a successful Summer Arts Kick-off, where
community members and visitors enjoyed music, food, kids’ crafts, and plein air painting!
“Our vision of ‘Weaving Our Future Together’ is truly coming to life this summer,” said Sarah
Riddoch, the Arts Center’s Executive Director. “From our diverse classes to new community
events like this past weekend’s Summer Arts Kick-off!, every initiative is designed to bring
people together, foster creativity, and strengthen the bonds within our beloved River
community.”
Engage, Create, Connect: Arts Education for All Ages
Discover your artistic potential with the Arts Center’s extensive class offerings. Throughout the
summer, learn new skills in weaving, mosaics, painting, drawing, pottery, and more. Highlights
include a Coastal Landscape Watercolor Workshop with Paul Allen Taylor on Thursday, July 10,
and a chair caning class with Lauren Evans on Monday, Aug. 25. Young artists can dive into
creativity with one-week kids’ summer camps, running from July 7 through Aug. 22, each
exploring a different medium and theme. This year’s kids’ camps focus on neon creations,
summertime fiber fun, the science of art, and more! The summer programs are supported by a
grant from the Northern New York Community Foundation’s Youth Philanthropy Council.
Experience the River Community by Participating in a Dine-Around
The Arts Center’s annual Dine-Around series offers unique opportunities to experience the
Thousand Islands region. These limited-reservation events, hosted by generous supporters
from July through September, showcase the rich culture and natural beauty of the area. Choose
from ten distinct experiences, including a private pickleball tournament, a private organic wine
tasting, a scenic boat ride, or guided meditation at the historic Grenell Island Chapel.
Online “Artful Auction” is Now LIVE
This year, the Arts Center introduces an exciting online “Artful Auction,” featuring incredible
art-inspired items. Bid on unique experiences and custom creations like a personalized cottage
painting by Helen Cardamone, a riverfront cottage stay in the Palisades, a custom weaving by
Harriet Burris, or a private pottery studio birthday party. Access the auction via the Dine-Around
page on the Arts Center website.
Building Our Future: Campus Expansion and Community Legacy
The Thousand Islands Arts Center is actively “Weaving Our Future Together” through its
Campus Capital Campaign. This more than $8M project, targeted for completion in 2026 and
already 80% funded, will significantly expand the campus, enhance access to programming,
and ensure the arts thrive in the Northern New York region for generations. The new Arts Center
and Museum will feature a permanent handweaving exhibit, expanded collections storage, a
library, and a dedicated research area.
Community members can cement their legacy through the “Step Up for the Arts” Paver Initiative,
running until Sept. 1, 2025. This initiative offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the new
campus while leaving a lasting mark.
Weaving our Future Together
For nearly six decades, the Thousand Islands Arts Center ~ Home of the Handweaving Museum
has served as a vital cultural institution, connecting individuals with the transformative power of
the arts. Your support helps sustain the Arts Center’s ongoing mission to advance art, craft and
its unique handwoven textile collection through education and exhibition.
For more details, to view the full schedule, or to purchase tickets for any of our offerings, please
visit www.TIArtsCenter.org.
