Patchogue Paints the Town

More than 300 artists will converge upon Patchogue’s arts district Sunday, Sept. 13, joining poets and musicians for Arts on Terry, an all-out celebration of creativity from 1 to 5 p.m.

Patchogue Arts Council Executive Director Beth Giacummo anticipates roughly 3,000 visitors when Terry Street shows off its cultural vibrancy with original Long Island musicians, 35 solo exhibit artists and free fun for kids like face painting. A highlight will be 25 live painters, each demonstrating their mastery of a 4x6 canvas to auction off that day.

“We’ve always called it a contemporary arts festival but it’s actually more of an arts exchange festival,” Giacummo said. “What’s unique about Arts on Terry is that we invite other arts organizations from all over Long Island to come and represent their membership and curate their spaces.” At least 50 percent of these organizations are new or returning to the festival this year.

Launched roughly 10 years ago, the event is the brainchild of Patchogue Mayor Paul Pontieri and ties in with Terry Street’s distinction as Long Island’s only designated arts district. “It’s been cultivated as an arts destination, so it makes sense to have the festival,” she said.

Patchogue Medford Public Library, one of several sponsors, can always be counted on for kids’ activities that day. “We especially love creating opportunities for children and families to get involved through free face painting and fun, engaging art activities,” said Michele Cayea, the library’s head of community engagement.

Dear to her heart, she said, is how the event provides an opportunity to raffle community art that people of all ages worked on with Patchogue Arts Council this summer.

A long-time festivalgoer, Cayea has witnessed its growth, especially with the live musical performances that diversify this tribute to the arts.

For this and other events, check out the Patchogue Arts Council website: PatchogueArts.org.