A grand re-opening and ribbon cutting ceremony took place at our new location in the Arcade Building (488 Broadway Suite 107, Albany, accessed via Maiden Lane) on Wednesday, Jan. 18th. The ceremony was attended by Albany City Treasurer Darius Shahinfar, Assemblymember John McDonald, Assemblymember Patricia A. Fahy, and Downtown Albany Business Improvement District Executive Director Georgette Steffens, along with Albany Center Gallery's Board of Directors.
“The Arcade, across from Jim Dinapoli Park, symbolizes a new era in Downtown where traditional buildings can be put to new contemporary and modern uses. This is now a home in which artists will be proud to showcase their art, while bringing a new energy to an underutilized landmark,” said Tony Iadicicco, executive director of Albany Center Gallery.
“We are proud to welcome Albany Center Gallery as an anchor destination to the building and the emerging Maiden Lane corridor. There should be more collaboration to draw residents and businesses back to downtown,” said David Sarraf, manager of Fairbank Properties.
The gallery announced the move to the Arcade Building in October 2016, capping a two-year long process to find a new permanent home; the gallery occupies approximately 2,050 sq. ft. of space on the ground floor. .
“The arts revitalize neighborhoods and promote economic prosperity. As we experience the growth of Albany’s newest neighborhood, we are thrilled that Albany Center Gallery has recommitted to Downtown. Drawing in over 25,000 visitors each year, the gallery highlights the wealth of talent here in our region and, in doing so, continues to transform how people engage with Downtown,” said Georgette Steffens, executive director of the Downtown Albany BID.
“Working with the leaders of the Albany Center Gallery to find a suitable new home in Albany was a priority of my administration because we understand that the Gallery has long been one of the anchors of Albany’s arts community,” said Mayor Kathy Sheehan. “That they have found a home in the heart of the Downtown arts district, the City’s newest walkable neighborhood, is good news for all who care about the arts, the Downtown, and the future economic well-being of our City.”
The ribbon-cutting ceremony was followed by a gallery exhibition and reception in the evening, along with the announcement of the winners of 11 artistic awards. Over 500 people were in attendance, with 175 artists showcased as part of the event.
The Arcade Building, which totals 75,000 sq. ft. and owned by Fairbank Properties, recently completed a $10 million renovation that includes 60 new apartments. In addition to the gallery, the Arcade is also home to the second location for Stacks Espresso Bar.
Albany Center Gallery, founded by Les Urbach in 1977, was first housed in the Capital District Psychiatric Center.
For more information about making a donation to the gallery or becoming a member, contact Tony Iadicicco at 518.462.4775 or by visiting albanycentergallery.org.