Beacon adds to its arts constellation

By Maeleeke J. Lavan
Poughkeepsie Journal

BEACON -- Already well-acquainted, the arts and Beacon embraced Tuesday.

Residents jammed an opening reception Tuesday night for the Beacon Project Space, getting their first glimpse into the city's latest venture into the world of art.

The project was warmly received, as was the prospect of a year-long residency by artist Carrie Mae Weems.

''She's uninhibited and on top of what she's doing,'' resident and artist Bill Keith said.

The project follows the Dia Center for the Arts, the initiation of a decorative arts museum -- both still in development -- and the continuing additions of businesses on Main Street.

The Beacon Project Space, serving as exhibition and office space, also will include monthly dialogues about the world of art. The building officially opens today.

Weems is the first of many artists whose work will be featured as part of the Beacon Cultural Project. She also will be a resident artist in the city for a year, putting together a multimedia presentation expressive of her experiences and interactions with residents.

Her work will be displayed at the Beacon Project Space and she will work out of The Record Shop -- two doors down -- scheduled to open in November.

In a conversation with residents and David A. Ross, director of the project, Weems expressed just what it means to truly become a part of a community.

''It's like an amazing puzzle that needs to be laid out and looked at and moved around and traveled around,'' she said of learning about and living in a place where she will be actively working. ''I want to know more about the Hudson (River). I'm fascinated with the river and river culture.''

Giving more insight into herself and her work, Weems showed a short slide presentation of some of the work she's produced over the years and around the world.

''This is the beginning of a project we hope will engage all of you,'' Ross said, ''as we all begin to enjoy what this city is turning into, which is a city of ideas.''

AT A GLANCE
PROJECT SPACE
Beacon Project Space officially opens today at 240 Main St. Hours of operation are from noon to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. For information, call (845) 440-0227.