MOHAWK VALLEY, N.Y. — State Sen. Joseph Griffo, C, R-Rome, is urging Gov. Kathy Hochul to consider artists or an arts organization from within the Mohawk Valley to oversee work done by the Mohawk Valley Regional Economic Development Council initiative.
This comes after the selection of the Saratoga Arts Council to direct the creation of public murals in the Mohawk Valley as part of the Cultivating Havens for the Arts through Regional Murals program.
“There are many talented artists and creative organizations in my Senate District and the Mohawk Valley, including the Kirkland Art Center, Munson, Sculpture Space, and the Rome Art and Community Center,” Sen. Griffo said.
“While I appreciate the Saratoga Arts Council’s efforts to create a vibrant and welcoming arts community and am not doubting their ability, it is my belief that the Mohawk Valley’s CHARM program partner should come from the region,” Griffo continued.
The Mohawk Valley REDC consists of Otsego, Oneida, Schoharie, Montgomery, Fulton and Herkimer counties.
“I am hopeful that the governor will agree and will consider the selection of a local entity to oversee the creation of public murals in the Mohawk Valley.”
The New York State Council on the Arts administers the CHARM program and it funds the creation of 40 works of art across the state.
All mural sites are publicly accessible and locations include libraries, schools, small businesses, public parks and parking structures. Artists completed 57 murals across 21 counties completed as part of last year’s initiative.