As we enter the festive month of December, art galleries in Upstate New York are filled with holiday cheer and creative energy. From abstract exhibitions to provocative showcases, there is a diverse range of artistic expressions to enjoy as we bid farewell to 2025.
One of the standout exhibitions is “Abstract Back at Ya” at Jane Street Art in Saugerties. Featuring over 20 artists, this group show explores the world of abstraction through mixed-media works. From Ted Dixon’s harmonious bulbous shapes to Ali Herrmann’s colorful monoprint collage, each artwork offers a unique perspective on abstract art. Yoko Izu’s “Salvaging Sanity” particularly stands out with its powerful black form against a white expanse.
For those looking for a more daring experience, “Sex Education” at Ethan Cohen Gallery in Beacon is a must-see. This exhibition delves into the playful and sensual dynamics of sexuality through a range of artworks. From Sucklord’s humorous figurine of art critic Jerry Saltz to Yuli Aloni Primor’s provocative sculpture “Madison,” the show offers a mix of whimsy and intrigue. Dr. Gindi’s “The Fateful Choice” adds a darker tone to the exhibition with its bronze sculpture of a woman holding a blade.
At KinoSaito in Verplanck, “Kikuo Saito: Reminiscence in Color” showcases older works by the master painter known for his abstract explorations in paint. From the haphazardly painted letters in “Perugia” to the golden-ochre warmth of “Alfabia,” Saito’s paintings play tricks on the eyes and captivate the imagination.
Meanwhile, at September Gallery in Kinderhook, “Dogs & Cats” celebrates our furry companions through a collection of mixed-media artworks. With a portion of sales going towards immigrant aid, the exhibition features joyful and heartwarming depictions of dogs and cats by artists like Daisy Noyes and Allison Schulnik.
In Cross River, Yellow Studio presents “Between Here and There,” a juried member exhibition featuring works by 22 women artists. From Jessica Porter’s pop-inspired landscapes to Elizabeth Elder’s vibrant compositions, the exhibition explores themes of identity and place through a diverse range of artistic styles.
At the Ruffed Grouse Gallery in Narrowsburg, “Pennsylvania Folk” pays homage to self-taught artists from Pennsylvania. Works by Lilian Kilpatrick Rheuban, Charles Dieter, Jack Savitsky, and Pauline Zimmerman reflect the cultural identity and artistic traditions of the state in a charming and authentic way.
In Cooperstown, the Fenimore Art Museum presents “Romare Bearden: Artist-Activist-Visionary,” celebrating the legacy of the influential American artist through a collection of collages, watercolors, prints, and archival materials. Bearden’s dramatic sensibilities and lyrical style shine through in works like “Baptism” and “Roots (Odyssey).”
Other notable exhibitions include “Earth Endures, Stars Abide” at Carrie Haddad Gallery in Hudson, “Workshopping: New Work by Emily Larned” at Women’s Studio Workshop in Kingston, and “Laura Bochet: Intangible Devotions” at Distortion Society in Beacon. Each exhibition offers a unique and captivating artistic experience, showcasing the talent and creativity of artists in Upstate New York.
As we immerse ourselves in the world of art and creativity this December, may these exhibitions inspire and uplift us as we look forward to a new year filled with possibility and imagination.
