This week in Upstate New York, the vibrant, local arts scene flourishes once again with the return of Upstate Art Weekend (UAW) from July 17 through July 21. Expanding to five full days, this annual event brings together a diverse community of artists, organizations, and visitors across the breathtaking Catskill Mountains and Hudson Valley. From galleries and museums to artist studios and special performances, the sixth iteration of UAW offers an unparalleled opportunity to engage with the region’s creative spirit in a variety of unique settings.
A Verdant Toast to the Human Spirit and Imagination
Glasshouse Project, “Edible Bodies,” May 2022; Courtesy of Upstate Art Weekend.
Since its modest beginnings in 2020, when just over twenty organizations participated, this event has blossomed into a major cultural gathering involving more than 155 contributors in 2025. The dynamic program features a broad spectrum of venues including renowned and cutting-edge spaces such as Bard College, Woodstock Artists Association & Museum, upbringing, Büro Koray Duman Architects, Glasshouse Project, and PS21: Center for Contemporary Performance. Here, a parade of vital categories including Historical/Architectural space, Cultural Center, Out in Nature, and Art Studio/Design Space are placed in riveting conversation.
Bard MFA, Thesis Exhibition 2023, Drew Zeiba-Performace; Courtesy of Upstate Art Weekend.
“The dynamic program features a broad spectrum of venues including renowned and cutting-edge spaces,”
Many participants offer exhibitions and installations tailor made for the weekend, while others share engaging talks, workshops, and interactive endeavors. The up-to-the-minute mix of permanent, long-standing venues and pop-up shows delights all with a colorful environment where tradition and experimentation soar.
New Open Studio Experience and Festive Events at Upstate Art Weekend
Büro Koray Duman Architects Interior; Courtesy of Upstate Art Weekend.
A standout feature for Upstate Art Weekend 2025 is the debut of an open studios initiative, where over 180 artists will open the doors of their compelling, private workspaces on Saturday, July 19, and Sunday, July 20, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. This unprecedented access offers art lovers and collectors the chance to see art-making firsthand and build personal connections with the creators.
Woodstock Artists Association & Museum Interior; Courtesy of Upstate Art Weekend.
“A standout feature for Upstate Art Weekend 2025 is the debut of an open studios initiative,”
The weekend’s program is supported by key collaborators, including lead sponsor Bloomberg Connects, production by SPACE, and design by BEST, who have organized public and private happenings throughout the region. The festivities commence on Thursday, July 17, and on Friday, July 18, there will be a lively dance party and fundraiser for Noise for Now, a national reproductive justice group. Hosted at Assembly, a buzzing venue that also serves as UAW’s headquarters, known as upbringing, the evening features a “pre-game” gathering to warm up the crowd.
The Spirit of Connection and Exploration in Nature
PS21, “Groundtone, Field of Vision”; Courtesy of Upstate Art Weekend.
Helen Toomer, the visionary founder of Upstate Art Weekend, shared the event’s core philosophy. “The number one thing to note is that it is impossible to do everything during Upstate Art Weekend and I encourage people not to rush,” Toomer said. “There’s much to see, but it’s also about the journey between participants and the experience of basking in the natural beauty of the Catskill Mountains and Hudson Valley. Upstate Art Weekend is about community, collaboration, art, and the outdoors, which are essential to our well-being.”
Upbringing, “Presence,” Reeve Scarville; Courtesy of Upstate Art Weekend.
“Upstate Art Weekend is about community, collaboration, art, and the outdoors, which are essential to our well-being,”
Helen Toomer
“This event was created to shine a light on the incredible organizations in the region and to solidify lasting connections with those visiting and those discovering what lies in their neighborhoods,” added Toomer. “The Google map is key for planning your very own Upstate Art Weekend adventures as it has all program information, location and hours – plus you can save and customize your own map/itinerary. I love discovering different things during Upstate Art Weekend, whether it’s a new project organized by local artists, or work by a new artist at an institution or gallery I already know. It’s full of surprises and the great thing is that there’s something for everyone.”
Woodstock Artists Association & Museum Exterior; Courtesy of Upstate Art Weekend.
