|
Our StoryMore than 30 years ago, a group of like-minded creatives regularly gathered in the cramped apartment of a budding young local artist, working together to promote each other’s work and bring artistic vibrancy to our community. Looking back, the Tri-County Arts Council has moved from a 400 square-foot apartment to a 3,300 square-foot storefront as a proud participant in the revitalization efforts of downtown Olean. We have exciting plans for the future and are committed to propelling this legacy forward.
|
History
Formally founded in 1998, after receiving grant funds from New York State Council on the Arts, the Cattaraugus County Arts Council established itself at a space in the former Allegany High School building. At the time, our founders were interested in providing the region with access to arts funding through the New York State Council on the Arts Decentralization program, and bringing quality arts programming to the residents of Cattaraugus county. Administration for the NYSCA Decentralization Programs in Allegany and Chautauqua counties were added in 2003 and 2009. This program administered by us on behalf of New York State, brings thousands of dollars of funding to small arts and cultural organizations throughout our region every year and is one of the cornerstones of our organization.
In the years to follow, our mission grew, striving to improve the quality of life across the region by elevating the place of arts and culture in our area through education, advocacy and events. However, lacking a street presence was a hindrance to the further growth of the organization, and a move to a new location on Main Street in Allegany was initiated in 2011. At that new location a retail space was launched for artists to sell their work and allowed for an expanded pottery and studio space. Classes for both adults and students, professional development for artists, and partnerships made with the Olean Area Chamber of Commerce helped to provide us with increased visibility and recognition.
In the years to follow, our mission grew, striving to improve the quality of life across the region by elevating the place of arts and culture in our area through education, advocacy and events. However, lacking a street presence was a hindrance to the further growth of the organization, and a move to a new location on Main Street in Allegany was initiated in 2011. At that new location a retail space was launched for artists to sell their work and allowed for an expanded pottery and studio space. Classes for both adults and students, professional development for artists, and partnerships made with the Olean Area Chamber of Commerce helped to provide us with increased visibility and recognition.
2019 Grand Opening
|
In 2018, after 20 years of service to the region, we officially changed our name to the Tri-County Arts Council, to better reflect the three county (Allegany, Cattaraugus and Chautauqua) communities we serve.
In 2019, we underwent another exciting milestone, moving to our new home in a restored 1920s building at 110 W State St in Olean. A building, which was previously set for demolition. This move reinforced our desire to showcase the important impact that the creative economy can have on economic development and community revitalization. We hope you’ll join us in taking a class, shopping in our Artisan Market, or becoming a member in support of our local arts and culture! |
Meet our Team!
Mikel Wintermantel, Executive Co-Director
mikel@myartscouncil.net Mikel Wintermantel is a nationally recognized Copley Master artist and unwavering supporter of the regional arts scene. He is also a local businessman in partnership with his brothers at Studio 4 East Screenprinting for more than 40 years. He has been an integral part of the Arts Council since its inception. After the Olean Arts Association dissolved in the early 80's Wintermantel held informal meetings with area artists and musicians in his studio on a monthly basis for years. He is driven to build the Tri-County Arts Council into the thriving, vibrant community of creatives it has all the potential to be. His work and CV can be seen here: www.mikelwintermantel.com
|
John Bartimole, Executive Co-Director, john@myartscouncil.net
John Bartimole brings years of experience in a variety of leadership and consulting roles for regional organizations and institutions. He is also a past recipient of the LOUIE Award, the area's highest honor for outstanding service to the community.
|
Kalyn, an Allegany, NY native, joins Tri-County Arts after working as the fine art department's registrar at Freeman's auction house in Philadelphia, PA. She earned her undergraduate degree at Nazareth College in Rochester, NY, and worked in the College's development office for several years before pursuing her Master's degree in Museum Studies at the University of Aberdeen, Scotland. In her free time, she enjoys watercolor painting and consuming all things true crime. She is eager to join a small but mighty team helping the community find and enhance their artistic passions.
|
Laurie is an Allegany Central graduate, settling back into small-town life after 22 years of living in Florida and Colorado all while raising 4 beautiful children. During her 6 years in Colorado, she Co-owned & operated a small business that supported local artists & her wellness products.
Her hobbies include cooking and creating healthy bath & body products made with essential oils. Laurie believes we're all artists in some way or another! She is happy to call Allegany her home and looks forward to supporting the creative, talented artists in our area. |
Natalie joins the Tri-County Arts after having many opportunities to work under local ceramic artists in Bristol and Honeoye, New York. She attended SUNY Fredonia for a dual BFA in Ceramics and Graphic Design. Natalie believes that learning the process is just as important as creating the final result. By teaching the process, she feels that people not only have a better understanding but appreciate the art form more. In her free time she enjoys throwing pottery on the wheel and watching sketch comedy shows. Natalie is looking forward to helping the community in unlocking their artistic niche.
|
|
|
Tri-County Arts Council programs and services are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Gov. Andrew Cuomo and the New York State Legislature. Additional support comes from the Cattaraugus County Department of Economic Development, the Cattaraugus Region Community Foundation, community business sponsors, and private memberships and donations.
|
Thank you to our Sponsors:
|
|
|
Tri-County Arts Council | 110 W. State St, Olean NY 14760 | PO 406 Olean, 14760 | 716.372.7455 | info@myartscouncil.net