Here’s a summary of the myriad of things MAD and its many volunteers have most recently accomplished:
MAD and Deep Listening Plaza: MAD, in collaboration with the Kingston Arts Commission, persuaded City Hall to dedicate a space in Midtown’s Broadway Commons in memory of Pauline Oliveros. Not only does this plaza honor a world-renowned Kingston-based musician, but it also ensures the permanence of a greatly needed green space and gathering place on Broadway’s commercial strip.
Remembrance Celebration for Pauline Oliveros: Working with the City’s Arts Commission, MAD hosted a 2017 reception at City Hall, which was attended by more than 200 people.
MAD and Black History Month: MAD collaborated with Harambee and the AJ Williams-Myers African Roots Library to promote the legacy of SUNY professor, Kingston community educator, and noted gallerist, Ben Wigfall.
Honoring Ben Wigfall: MAD organized a 2017 memorial service and reception for famed African American artist and SUNY New Paltz art teacher Ben Wigfall. His contributions to Kington included his Communications Village and his Watermark Cargo Gallery. MAD is helping to curate his personal art collection and is a sponsor of Black History Month in Kingston, which will be promoting community service with an annual Ben Wigfall Legacy Award.
MAD 1st Saturday Guide and Map: MAD collaborated with the Kingston Gallery Business Group to raise awareness of 1st Saturday gallery openings. MAD is underwriting the production and distribution of the monthly map, produced by Ditto! Design!
MAD eNews and Website: MAD issues a bi-monthly eNewsletter and maintains the MAD website. Both highlight artists, art businesses, arts venues and art events in Midtown as well as throughout the City of Kingston.
MAD Celebration of the Arts: Our official launch party and a free evening of music were held in October of 2016, followed by successful annual concerts curated by well-known Kingston composer Peter Metzler. The Celebration of the Arts features local artists, many of whom are internationally renowned. During the ceremonies–traditionally opened by City of Kingston Mayor Steve Noble and other local dignitaries–the MAD Red Goat Awards are presented to honor community members who have made significant contributions to the arts in Midtown Kingston.
Art Walk Kingston: MAD works closely with Arts Mid-Hudson to launch this well-attended fall weekend event highlighting more than 100 artists.
Kingston Arts and Action Mixer (KAAM): MAD joined forces with Art Walk Kingston and Arts Mid-Hudson to host monthly gatherings on the first Thursday of each month at The Beverly Lounge.
P.U.G.G. Student Art Center on Broadway: MAD sponsored the P.U.G.G. student art center on Broadway and will continue to be a sponsor of this grassroots organization at its new location at the YMCA.
MAD Pop-Up Fine Art Market Debuts at MADE In Kingston: In 2017, MAD sponsored the first fine art component within the annual MADE in Kingston Fair featuring 17 artists. This annual focus on fine art offers fine artists a unique opportunity to display and sell their work at the popular holiday event.
MAD Organization: MAD established its 501 (c)(3) non-profit status, hired a part-time bookkeeper and an accountant, expanded its board of directors to seven members, and recruited a diverse and talented MAD Advisory Board.
