BEACON, N.Y. – I was tired of the conventional art scene. Visiting museums in New York City meant hours of travel time, hidden expenses and big crowds. Beacon itself had popped up on the international art map when Dia: Beacon opened its doors in 2003. The contemporary art museum drew crowds from around the world, but while some tourists made the trek to Main Street, many just got right back on the train, forgetting that Beacon was home to over twenty galleries, each with its own unique perspective on art. “The museum’s important,” said local gallery owner Michael Benzer. “But it’s the artists that have moved here, who have opened studios and hosted shows, that have allowed Beacon to become an art destination.”
I myself was guilty; I had been to Beacon several times but had never made it past the train station. Just a twenty-minute drive from my home, Beacon’s Main Street seemed like the perfect place to immerse myself in the local art scene. So I headed over to Beacon for the evening to check out the art and grab a bite to eat.
My trip to Beacon fell on Second Saturday, an evening once a month where the galleries extend their normal hours and host art shows, musical performances, and wine tastings. I began the night on the West End of Main Street at Hudson Beach Glass. Located in a renovated firehouse, the colorful glass bowls, vases, and sculptures could be spotted through the windows. The gallery was filled with people, some talking, others browsing the work and a class on glassblowing was just winding down. Co-owner Michael Benzer was chatting with customers but encouraged me to give myself a tour of the galleries. “Be sure to check out the third floor. There’s a great view of the Valley.”
Sara Wynkoop 