Festive Theme Set For Final First Fridays Artswalk of 2012
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PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The upcoming First Fridays Artswalk ends the first year of art shows, openings and events in downtown galleries, shops and restaurants with a festive holiday night out on Friday, Dec. 7, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Over 50 local artists will be featured in locations from the Ferrin Gallery to the Berkshire Museum, including — for the first time — Pittsfield City Hall. Free maps and guides will be available throughout downtown as well as at the First Fridays Artswalk website.
"First Fridays Artwalk has been a tremendous addition to Pittsfield's lively new Upstreet Cultural District this year," said Mayor Daniel M. Bianchi.
There will be dozen of opportunities to buy unique gifts during First Fridays Artswalk from local artists. Across the street from Pittsfield City Hall, Downtown Pittsfield Inc. will host an opening reception for a solo show by Great Barrington artist Terry Wise. Around the corner at the Lichtenstein Center for the Arts, enjoy the opening reception of Out of the Studio, a show of work by artists who have studios in the Lichtenstein Center for the Arts. In addition, studio resident Nicole Rizzo, founder of Gypsy Layne Burlesque & Cabaret, will present a special performance at 6:30 p.m.
The Berkshire Museum, currently featuring its magical holiday show, the Festival of Trees, will be open late — until 8 p.m. — for First Fridays Artwalk and admission is 25 percent off during First Fridays Artswalk hours.
In the Crawford Square at 137 North St., explore artwork by Richard Thomas Weber and Anne Pasko at Pateez Boutique; the quilts of Susan Shepardson at Brenda & Co., and more. Gallery 25 on Union Street features a solo show of Marguerite Bride's winter watercolors, while upstairs the artists will open their studios and feature a group show around the theme of the color red.
The Shire City Sanctuary on Melville Street (formerly the Notre Dame Church) will be filled with creative life and color on Friday evening. Upstairs, be the first to shop the holiday delights at Crispina ffrench’s annual Holiday Shindy artisan festival, featuring 40 of the finest artists and artisans from throughout the northeast. The Holiday Shindy will be open from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 7, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Admission is free.
For more information about First Fridays Artswalk, including information for artists who would like to participate as well as more exhibits, visit the First Friday Artswalk website or call 413-443-5601.
