The Arts Are On the Move Again

ArtsWestchester’s ArtsMobile is on the go once again. While the program was offered in the form of virtual workshops throughout the pandemic, the organization is now planning the in-person return of its colorful van to outdoor events beginning in July. Custom-fit with all types of art supplies, the ArtsMobile will bring free pop-up arts workshops to audiences of all ages at numerous sites throughout Westchester County. The hands-on visual arts, music and dance workshops will be instructed by professional teaching artists. Participants will have the opportunity to get outside, and engage and connect with others through creative expression.

Jessica Cioffoletti, Director of Arts in Education at ArtsWestchester explains that the aim of the ArtsMobile has always been enlivening community sites with art and sparking creativity in neighborhoods with limited access to the arts. It now also seeks to help reignite the spirit of the community after a challenging year.

Says Cioffoletti: “The arts are more important than ever by helping individuals to overcome the stressors of the past year through shared and creative activities.”

Cioffoletti says that new health and safety protocols will be implemented this season in order to provide comfort and protect staff, artists and participants. Masks will be required to participate in workshops and ArtsWestchester will provide them if participants do not have their own. Cleaning and sanitization will occur between groups, and more tables will allow for social distancing and fewer participants at each station.

“We are thrilled to have the continued support of our partners, White Plains Hospital and Con Edison, in bringing the arts back into our local communities.”

Through October, the ArtsMobile will be making its way to local events, senior sites, summer camps and more, starting with a pollinators-themed activity at the TaSH (Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow) Farmers Market on July 10 at Patriot’s Park in Tarrytown.

A version of this article first appeared in the July-August issue of ArtsNews, ArtsWestchester’s monthly publication. ArtsNews is distributed throughout Westchester County. A digital copy is also available at artsw.org/artsnews.