Beer and art: What could possibly be better?
An installation of over 80 12-by-12-inch canvases showcasing work by members of The Nyack Art Collective is now the backdrop for sucking down suds at Burger Loft/District 96 Beer Factory in New City.
The work, unveiled last week, is intended to both capture and celebrate the spirit of the restaurant slash brewery, which includes the extensive menu of 100 beers with names that poke fun at politics like the “Photo-Op” and “False News,” as well as depictions of satisfied customers joyfully imbibing, and rural scenes that evoke the brewing process.
It’s The Collective’s way of saying thank you to John Potenza, who for years has allowed the 30-member group to meet for free at the eatery.
Nyack Art Collective is a member-led nonprofit that has supported local artists since 2013.
Traci Katchi-Anders, the former owner of the only art supply shop in Nyack at the time, Vincent’s Ear, began featuring exhibitions and workshops at the store and recognized an unmet need within the artistic community.
Eleven people came to her first meeting in December 2012, and together they decided to form an association that would include a materials swap, co-op gallery, craft fairs, studio space and workshops. The following month, a nonprofit was born.
More than a decade later, the group includes painters, sculptors, woodworkers and ceramicists from age 18 to 82. The Collective curates exhibitions of its members’ work, helps spread the word about their accomplishments and participates in community events like the Halloween parade, winning first place in the float contest last year.
The event last week at Burger Loft/District 96 was attended by more than 30 members of the collective.
Customers said their artwork added brightness, charm and a bit of humor to the bustling establishment, which has been a popular neighborhood hangout since 2011.
Another Burger Loft/District 96 location is expected to open this spring on Main Street in Nyack and will also feature rotating art exhibitions.
Nyack Art Collective also has several ongoing exhibitions on display beyond the brewery.
Paintings by Jack Milazzo and photographs taken by Bern Cohen are on view at Hotel Nyack through June 3.
An exhibit at X House showcasing paintings, photography and watercolors by local artists will be up through June 13.
The Nyack Art Collective’s next meeting is Monday, May 13, at 6:30 p.m. in the Nyack Library community room. All are welcome.
