Industries

ALN’S Steve Lawrence : All the Things, All the Time

January 10, 2025 By Corey Aldrich

My first introduction to Arts Letters & Numbers was through ACE! Our previous ED, Maureen Sager had set up for us to do a ‘Creative Networking’ event there (2019). My first impression was very similar to that of Salem Art Works, who I had done a bit of consulting with when I first left my corporate job in real estate. A hyper creative, renegade spirit with an alluring joie de vivre that attracts highly creative minds and makers. Recently, I went to an opening there and Founding Director, David Gersten invited me to stay for dinner which would be at their newest campus acquisition, La Perla Restaurant. The conversation was rich. David and Steve Lawerence, the Associate Director started passionately telling me about the educational programming and creatively fluid campus style that is developing. I had to share. This type of experiential programming really gets me excited and I am hoping it will inspire you to consider new and innovative approaches to what you do.

Steve Lawrence, Associate Director at Arts Letters & Numbers in Avrill Park, NY | Image: Provided

Please state your name, title and past experience that got you to where you are today.

I’m Steven Lawrence, and I currently serve as the Associate Director at Arts Letters & Numbers (ALN) in Averill Park, NY. My journey here has been shaped by a blend of being a tradesman, artist, educator, and psychologist. I ended up at Arts Letters & Numbers because I changed the heating system during a stint of contracting after retiring from the classroom and working on post-grad work.

After high school, I found my way into the trades as a plumbing and heating contractor. I ran my own company for several years before transitioning into becoming a licensed NYS teacher in 2009. I spent 12 years abroad teaching History, English, and Psychology across international schools in Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and China. Whatever the system I was teaching in, I focused on creating learning environments that nurture both intellectual and emotional growth. I quickly found that of all that I “taught”, the teaching of meditative practices to students was by far the most important. Through this, and my work outside the classroom in therapeutic settings, I’m now pursuing my PhD in Psychology at Saybrook University (C.A.) specializing in transpersonal psychology and the hermeneutics of meditative expressions as viable treatment.

I’ve always been passionate about the power of craft and the arts in shaping the future. At ALN, I’m working to bridge the worlds of arts, trades, and academics, helping students connect with opportunities that are both practical and creative. The skills students develop in these fields will play a crucial role in shaping their future – just as they did for me.

Arts Letters & Numbers – Resident Artist / Dancer Emma Bäcklund | Image: Zelé Angelides

Can you tell us a bit about what a day in the life looks like for you at ALN? Also, maybe a bit about the diversity of programming you have going on…

My days are a mix of community engagement, creative collaboration, and facility and program development. As Associate Director, I work on fostering connections with local educators and organizations, helping to expand our hands-on learning opportunities across arts, trades, and experiential programs. We have the privilege of a wonderfully supportive team and community that play a critical role in the success of any project associated with ALN.

A big part of my role is supporting artist residencies, where we provide them with space to create and collaborate. These residencies are about fostering the artistic experience, connecting artists with the community, and creating a space for cross-disciplinary exchange. Additionally, the maintenance of facilities could take an afternoon or two, keeping up houses, apartments, studios and the Mill.

La Perla Restaurant and the Gregory House Inn, Part of ALN’s Growing Campus | Image: Provided

La Perla Restaurant, which was opened under the ALN banner in August 2024, has been an exciting addition to the project. The restaurant brings in not only local people from the community, but musicians, poets, and guests that stay at at the Gregory House Inn.

Arts Letters & Numbers Workshop / Educational Programming | Image: Provided

I am always struck by the quality of offerings that I see happening at ALN, real intellectual stuff juxtapositioned nicely with get your hands dirty, maker oriented programming. What’s the organizational philosophy that you have to drive the selection and balance?

Our philosophy centers on the belief that intellectual exploration and hands-on creativity are most impactful when combined. We intentionally balance thought-provoking programs with maker-oriented experiences to create a dynamic, holistic learning environment. Our aim is to balance thinking with making.

Arts Letters & Numbers Workshop on Campus | Image: Zelé Angelides

Our approach is interdisciplinary, connecting different fields to foster deeper understanding, while also encouraging collaboration across disciplines, enriching both intellectual and creative work. We prioritize personalization, offering opportunities for participants to engage in both deep reflection and tactile creation, to explore their passions in diverse ways. Add to that our moto: “Yes, in advance.” and “If we know what it’s going to be we don’t do it”. Very often that’s all anyone needs, it’s so remarkably simple. It’s not easy, but it’s simple.

We also ensure that our programs have a community impact, providing real-world relevance and opportunities to engage with the local environment.

Art Letters & Number Mural Project for Doors of Hope with Partners: Rensselaer County Mental Health Student Assistance Program (SAP), and the Nopiates Committee | Image: Provided

I am especially interested in your pursuit of educational integration, IE working with non-campus based populations, academic institutions and other arts organizations. Can you sketch out what the ALN vision is there, and how you are continuing to expand that approach?

Our vision is to create a network where learning is not confined to traditional settings but extends into the broader community. Our approach is centered on connecting students and artists with real-world opportunities that span across any discipline imaginable. We are committed to collaborating with local schools, such as Big Picture Learning in Schenectady, the Averill Park School District and Berlin Central, to bring experiential learning out of the classroom through internships and hands-on programs. We also have a strong connection in secondary education with R.P.I., Russell Sage College, The Cooper Union in New York, as well as a range of international institutions. These connections are a testament of the life and career of David Gertsten, the Founding Director and President of ALN.

Arts Letters & Numbers Founding Director David Gertsten Does TEDx | Image: Provided

2018 ALN Collaboration : ‘Future Unknown’ Chancellor’s Summit held at
The Central Academy of Fine Arts (CAFA) in Beijing, China | Image: Provided

We’re deepening these collaborations to develop more integrated programs that connect craftsmanship, creativity, and theory as a sort of global exchange. This allows us to create rather unconventional pathways to learning and individual development. ALN is evolving into a truly interdisciplinary and transnational model. I wouldn’t say we’re building a school, it’s more like we’re working to supplement a learning experience that students want and typical schools can’t always provide. Schools have been open to working together. Generally, any hurdles are pragmatic, working through a system one issue at a time and sticking with it. ‘No’ can’t be an answer, sometimes.

Arts Letter & Numbers Film Project Collaboration with Youth FX and the
Albany High School’s Social Justice Theater Program | Image: Provided

It’s all very collaborative, what would you recommend to other institutions who may have an interest in expanding their footprint to have a greater yet practical impact? Thoughts on how to do that sustainably from a resource perspective?

When working with other institutions towards the same ends, it’s essential to focus on creating genuine partnerships that bring real value. Find the people that ‘get it’ and work with them. Starting small with pilot programs or focused collaborations can help you see what works before expanding. It’s also important to find synergies between different partners—whether that’s through sharing resources like space and staffing or finding common goals to work towards. Sustainability comes from creating partnerships that are mutually beneficial, where the collaboration strengthens the work of everyone involved.

When partnering with local schools, businesses, or other arts organizations, we look for opportunities to build programs that are aligned with our style of approach. It’s important to note that these discussions often take months—sometimes even a year—before a project fully comes to fruition. This long timeline is the reality of creating great programs. While planning and discussing future initiatives, we’re also actively carrying out the programs that are already in motion. Patience is essential. It’s important to manage both long-term development and the work happening right now.

We’re always keen to open the space for folks to venture out into their artistic pursuits. Recently a local woodworker took up shop here to get his furniture business off the ground. As ‘compensation’ he lends a hand, using his skill sets to support us where he can. There are ways to be creative about developing transactional relationships.

Arts Letters and Numbers – Teaching Time | Image: Zelé Angelides

Anything in the pipeline that we should be aware of? Anything you would like to plug that you have coming up?

We’re continuing to work closely with local schools and developing community projects that students can be involved in. These initiatives take on many forms, from community-based murals to a community table-building project for the Poestenkill Town Park.

Our residency seasons run from January 15-March 15 and April 15-June 15, where we invite artists from various disciplines to create, collaborate, and engage with the local community. Many are scheduled to arrive, and our application process is still open. You can learn more by visiting our residency page.

We’re also excited to be running our Craft 1o1 project again this year in July and August 2025. It’s our second year running, and we had a remarkable time last year. It’s a unique opportunity for individuals to engage experiences unlike anything I’ve seen, where we engage masters of craft in upwards of 15 different disciplines – from music to masonry, poetry to plumbing. That is to say, musicians learn masonry and masons learn to play music, poets plumb and plumbers write poetry. It’s rather remarkable. We’ll be announcing the open registration for that soon, otherwise folks can plan ahead and join the residency which allows them to participate.

Food Prep at Arts Letters & Numbers | Image: Zelé Angelides

There are a few other exciting projects in development that I’m not quite ready to announce, but you can stay updated on all of our upcoming initiatives by following our newsletter. It’s the best way to stay in the loop and hear about what we’re up to.

For more info –
WEB: artslettersandnumbers.com | IG/FB : @artslettersandnumbers

METROLAND (NOW) : Revival of a Capital Region Institution

October 9, 2024 By Corey Aldrich

Like the glory days of First Friday, METROLAND played such an important part in the creative discovery of what the Capital Region had to offer. Every week I remember picking up a copy (Usually at Tess’s Lark Tavern) and scanning through it to plan my weekend activities. While there are some other sources of arts and cultural listings in the region where you can find out things that are happening and get good interviews and background (Radio Radio X and Nippertown) METROLAND was always a gold standard for finding out where and what was happening from the above to underground scenes. Musician / Comedian Erin Harkes is looking to bring back that energy and has secured the brand for a new rendition as retooled as METROLAND NOW. The question is, what will she do with it?

Erin Harkes : Musician, Comedian and Publisher at METROLAND NOW | Photo: Kiki Vassilakis

Could you state your name, title and background?

Erin Harkes. Multi-hyphenate 😉 Musician, Comedian, and now publisher!

As an entertainer who has spent over two decades in the capital region, navigating every twist and turn the industry has presented, continuously adapting and reinventing myself along the way. The constant throughout this journey has been the significance of marketing. While the methods of marketing may evolve, the essential need for it remains unchanged.

Many people often ask why I haven’t relocated to a larger city. It’s a complex question. Perhaps it stems from a sense of contentment or, by some accounts, complacency. It’s undeniable that bigger cities offer opportunities that may not be available here, yet I have consistently found ways to create my own paths. Instead of commuting to places like Boston or NYC every time I want to showcase my comedy, I decided to take matters into my own hands by producing shows specifically to provide myself with performance opportunities. I’ve approached music in a similar fashion, and now, I’m venturing into publishing as well with METROLAND NOW.

Historic METROLAND Covers | Photo(s): Facebook

To many of us who have been around the region for a while, METROLAND was a gold standard for the arts and cultural sector (and activism). I was so disappointed to see it go. What made you decide that now was the time to revive that and how were you able to pull that off? What geographic area will you be covering? Topically, what will be the content focus of the publication?

I felt there was a void / vacuum in the area. There are definitely other publications but some are just not an option for me as a performer. I had always had the idea of reviving METROLAND in the back or my brain. I honestly never thought beyond that until this year. It all kind of happened organically through countless conversations with other creatives and folks in the community. We will be covering Albany, Troy, Schenectady, Saratoga and the general perimeter around those four. But we won’t hold ourselves back from places beyond that when the call comes! The focus, for now, will mostly be music but we’re expanding into arts and other entertainment, comedy, community events, non-profit organizations, small businesses, a comprehensive calendar and just see where it takes us! As long as the message is positive, we’ll share it!

I know you started with the idea of being an online publication only and now I have heard murmurs that you are considering bringing a version into print also. Can you tell us more about what that will look like and what the timelines are on that front? Will this be a weekly issue?

I started this idea with NO intention of printing but the more I talked to folks the more I heard this exact phrase uttered: “I miss picking one up.” I really listened to that. For whatever reason, folks miss the physical nature of METROLAND. I don’t believe print is dead but I also don’t see the need for a weekly so we’re going to try for a monthly hopefully starting this month! (October 2024)

A robust and representative publication takes a lot of team work. How big is your current team? Is it mostly volunteers or paid folk? As I recollect, that last version of Metroland ended up closing due to financial issues. Do you have a plan to ensure that you don’t end up with similar challenges?

My current team is about seven folks, including myself. Everyone has been volunteering, including myself. There’s one person who I have been paying out of my own pocket because she does this for a living and has a small child and another on the way, whereas the other team members have day jobs. Everything is transparent; everyone knows who’s making what. I’m actively working on way to ensure that everyone, including myself, gets paid. It’s a priority. The last thing I want to do is exploit artists!

I registered as a non-profit because my priority is to try and help other non-profits in the area – be it venues or general NFP’s – get the attention they might not be able to afford otherwise. I plan on doing some fundraising and getting some sponsors/patrons/donors to help give to the cause. There will also be advertising opportunities that can generate income. My plan to make sure we stay financially viable is to use the resources I have built over my 20+ years in the Capital Region and learn from my peers. I have been offered an incredible amount of support from some of the most successful people in the area and am genuinely humbled by the respect I’ve been shown. I have a big ego and know what my vision is but I am not too proud to ask for help with the things that I haven’t learned enough about yet. It will take a village, but I HAVE that village.

If folks want to be involved on the creative content side or are interested in advertising or being a distribution point, what’s the best way for them to get in touch?

We have received SO many submissions so far. We are working on the best way to filter through them all and give the best consideration to each and are still ironing out a process to make this easy for everyone involved. When it’s time it will be very clear how to do that! Right now we suggest checking the website and the social media. We’re chipping away at the messages we’ve already gotten and asking people to be patient with us. I have amazing volunteers and I am not about to overwhelm them. There’s a fine line between ambition/tenacity and harassment, though. The latter will not be rewarded. Even the most talented folks won’t be considered if they aren’t respectful during this process. Also the core group has to vote unanimously on new contributors. I want everyone to be safe and comfortable with their peers. That is paramount. Contacting ME directly isn’t a good idea, either. Haha! Just trying to make our boundaries very clear.

Shameless Plug: What would you like to share with us? Any things coming up on the horizon we should know about?

Thank you but honestly nothing right now! We just ask that everyone share the website and the socials and keep it up with all the positive messages. I can’t wait to watch this grow and work with our vibrant and talented community!

Finally, know that ACE! has your back! 🙂

LIKEWISE! I look very much forward to working with you guys closely!

For more on the final days of METROLAND previous...check out the article in the Times Union from January 2016 by Paul Grondahl.

The Team at METROLAND – The Final Days | Photo: Steve Jacobs / Times Union

Jill Fishon-Kovachick is Sculpting Success at Saratoga Clay Arts

June 6, 2024 By Corey Aldrich

I discovered Saratoga Clay Arts through my good friend Ping Xu who is a member there (Also a board member at Saratoga Arts). She kept telling me that I had to see the amazing facilities and community that she was a part of. Well, I have to say…she was right on all counts. What Founder and Executive Director Jill Fishon Kovachick has been able to cultivate is not just an oasis of creativity and an incredibly well equipped makers space but a connected and growing community that many have come to call home.

Please state your name, organization and what you do.

My name is Jill Fishon-Kovachick and the name of my center is the Saratoga Clay Arts Center. I am the Executive Director. I started working with Clay at eleven years of age at Bucks Rock Camp in New Milford Connecticut. I was a camper and became a counselor and found Clay as my medium. From there I went to Skidmore College where I received my BS Degree is Art Education. I studied under Regis Brodie. My love for clay has been my passion for most of my life and continues to be important to me and to be able to teach it to our community fills my heart.

Entrance Sign at Saratoga Clay Arts | Image: Corey Aldrich

Can you tell us about what is happening at the Saratoga Clay Arts and what your mission is? The campus is so beautiful, I really love the vibe there!

Our mission is all about community and to inspire people of all ages. We educate people all about clay. From the hand-building process to the potters wheel. We also have many different types of kilns and glazes. There is also a gallery on site called the Schacht Gallery, which I named after my Grandmother who’s maiden name was Schacht. The gallery brings in local and national artists. We want to expose people of all generations to what it means to work with clay. The gallery broadens people’s understanding of what can be done with clay – in all ways.

Schacht Gallery at Saratoga Clay Arts in Saratoga Springs, NY | Image: Corey Aldrich

Outdoor Patio Area at Saratoga Clay Arts in Saratoga Springs, NY | Image: Corey Aldrich

What does a typical day look like for you on location?

My typical day is wearing many different hats at SCAC. From teaching to answering phones to paying bills and then of course finding time to work on my own work.

Hands On Soda Firing and Throwing Workshop with Matt Long at Saratoga Clay Arts | Image: Corey Aldrich

A lot of organizations with an educational program end up going the not for profit route. Why did you decide to structure as a for profit company?

I ended up making SCAC a private business because I had to react fast to create it. I had been working at Skidmore for Special Programs for 17 years. There I taught a night class for the outside community. Skidmore had decided to delete the night classes for ceramics so the people taking classes needed a place to work. This required me to move quickly to bring everyone to the center. There was no time to set up a not-for-profit. We all needed a place to work – immediately. I bought our current building in foreclosure. I know I made the right decisions as the center has been busier then I ever dreamed could happen.

Materials Pantry at Saratoga Clay Arts | Image: Corey Aldrich

Saratoga Clay Arts has 7 Electric Kilns on Campus (4 Seen Here) | Image: Corey Aldrich

Can you talk a little bit about the economics of the business? I know running a pottery shop requires some serious equipment and infrastructure investment.

We opened in 2011. I was fortunate enough to be able to purchase the building and the equipment to get things going. The business did need some financial backing to cover the equipment side though. Since then we have been raising money through our annual fundraiser which is called the Chili Bowl. We give some of our proceeds to a local organization called To Life which is helping people with breast cancer. and to the Wilton Food Pantry. The local restaurants have participated and have been incredibly generous in donating their donations for the event. It’s a chili cook off and competition and is an amazing and fun event. This of course is in addition to our class and program fees.

EDITORS NOTE: In addition to 7 electric kilns of various types, Saratoga Clay Arts has a large high-fire gas kiln, a salt kiln, a soda kiln, a raku kiln and a pit fire smoker.

Jill at the Kiln | Youth Programming at Saratoga Clay Arts | Image: Provided

Mark Tarabula – Studio Manager at Saratoga Clay Arts in Saratoga Springs, NY | Image: Corey Aldrich

Running a business can be so demanding, how do you balance that with your own artistic practice?

Running a business is incredibly demanding and I have had to give up some valuable time in making my own work to do but it, but it was worth it. The center is such a great place. Since opening and being available all the time I have hired some amazing people. I have a Studio Manager Mark Tarabula , an Artistic Director Leigh Taylor Mickelson and a Marketing and Engagement Community Coordinator Lyndee Deal. This allows me to be able to to focus more on my work. We also have up to 4 Artists in Residence at any given time who teach classes and work for the center in exchange for studio use. Additionally, we hire interns who learn from us and find their direction in clay. They help teach classes and learn the dynamics of running a center.

David Kwak – Resident Artist at Saratoga Clay Arts in Saratoga Springs, NY | Image: Corey Aldrich

Under Construction : New Classroom Space at Saratoga Clay Arts in Saratoga Springs, NY | Image: Corey Aldrich

Bonus question: Anything coming up on the horizon you would like to tell us about, programming to promote?

Some exciting news on the horizon… we are almost finished renovating the basement and have created another beautiful classroom and more studio rentals. We plan for that to be open in June which will allow us to have more room to grow and more classes being offered. Additionally, this will allow us to promote more private parties and corporate clay events.

Fresh Out of the Kiln at Saratoga Clay Arts | Image: Provided

Arielle Steele : Finance by Day Film by Night | Building a Creative Career One Gig at a Time

June 6, 2024 By Corey Aldrich

I met Arielle Steele recently at a backyard picnic at John Yost‘s house (Film Maker and Founder at Fifth Column Features). After about 30 minutes of engaging conversation I knew I wanted to highlight her story. So many of our freelance creatives are working day gigs with big aspirations of moving full time into their creative practice. Arielle brings a solid business background to hers and as if she is not busy enough, was recently named Vice President of the Board at the newly rejuvenated 518 Film Network – a group ACE! has produced some very successful networking events with in the past.

Arielle Steele : Financial Analyst at AYCO and Independent Film Maker / Producer | Image: Jayana LaFotos

Please state your name, company and job title.

My name is Arielle Steele and I am a Wealth Management Professional at Ayco-Goldman Sachs by day and a Filmmaker-Producer by night. I obtained my Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature from Williams College, where I discovered film as a second love. Since then I’ve juggled my work in traditional 9-5s in education and finance with my passion for film. On set, I usually occupy the producer or associate producer’s seat. Recently I have expanded my work in film to include the festival circuit. In 2023 I was the Film Festival Coordinator for the inaugural Renaissance Black Film Festival here in Albany.

Can you share what a typical day looks like for you on your day job and one when you are running a creative project?

A typical day for me within finance is a day full of juggling competing priorities servicing our clients. Whether it’s executing trades over the phone with clients, sending out wires, liaising with internal teams to maintain brokerages, training new team members, or mentoring new hires with the developmental program I created with senior employees at the firm, my day is focused on providing great experiences for our clients and ensuring that my team is fully prepared to take on the day. There’s always an overarching project I’m working on in tandem with my daily asset movement and administrative responsibilities.

When I’m working on a creative project my day to day varies depending on the length of the project, the role I’m assuming, and where we are in production (pre, shooting, or post).

Because I have a full time job I typically choose short term projects, such as short films or music videos. On these days I’ll create call sheets for the next day, review shot lists, create sides for the actors and crew, and check in with PAs to make sure we’re ready to shoot for the day. If it’s a small enough shoot I’ll have to wear multiple hats and act as a PA myself, getting talent to the location, ensuring crafty and meals are available and served in a timely fashion. I’ll consistently check in with the AD and director to ensure we have what we need to shoot efficiently.

In many ways it mirrors my main job because I rely heavily on my project management skills both on and off set.

However, pre-production is my favorite part of the process. Everyone is bubbling with excitement and the seemingly near endless possibilities for the project, while I’m thinking of ways to harness this energy to yield the best results. I work with the director and in some cases writer-director to grasp their vision and offer solutions for costuming, locations, and crew that strikes the balance of honoring their vision and the budget. Then we crunch the numbers and conquer! These meetings typically span a few days in the evenings to accommodate my availability.

How do navigate finding time wearing the different hats of these two very different roles? Are there any ways in which your day job helps you in your creative practice?

Honestly speaking navigating these two roles can get challenging when I’m in the throes of a film project. Knowing that my main job has its peaks I’ll plan to work on projects during the financial “off season.” This is only part of the battle. When on set I’ll try to be there during off days and capitalize on my evenings doing prep work for a shoot. So for a week I’ll be firing on all cylinders.

As for transferable skills, there unexpectedly is a lot of overlap. Excel is both my friend and foe on both sides of the aisle. I check in constantly with other teams/heads of departments and produce deliverables for my supervisor/directors. In the pre-production stage I create pitch decks to secure funding for films, and in the office I’ve created pitch decks for developmental programming. Though finance and film seem to be worlds apart, in terms of production they actually work in tandem with one another.

**Renaissance** Black Film Festival Panel Discussion with Arielle Steele | Image: Jayana LaFotos

Any particular projects that you would like to share that you are especially proud of?

One project that I’m especially proud of was the film programming I did for the Renaissance Black Film Festival. We secured 100+ submissions on the first go around, and the shorts we selected were phenomenal. Under Kevin Johnson and Patrick Harris’ leadership I was able to moderate a panel with Jamal Hill, Gail Bean, and Morris Chestnut. It has been a career highlight for me.

Additionally my work with non-profit 518 Film Network has invigorated me. Created by Michelle Polacinski and Micah Khan, the network was founded on the idea of forging an equitable and rich filmmaking community, something I really resonated with. When Michelle and Micah decided to end their terms, it gave me the opportunity to be an active participant with the 518 film community. I’m really excited for the work we’re doing and the programming to come this summer!

**Renaissance** Black Film Festival Photo Op | Image: Jayana LaFotos

As a female and minority Film Producer how would you describe the state of opportunity for you to participate in projects regionally? The challenges? What advice would you give to other women who are looking to participate more in leadership roles in the industry regionally?

The projects I typically work on are for independent filmmakers so that field varies from commercial opportunities. Bearing that in mind, as an emerging producer my opportunities have been generated by my personal network. I am incredibly thankful for those who have seen my passion for production and trusted in the vision.

This is not to say that I haven’t tried mainstream avenues within local television networks. In the past I’ve tried to go that route and it was difficult. Even applying for Production Assistant positions, networks want to see a traditional film history, which as a multi-hyphenate hailing from a liberal arts college, I didn’t have. People don’t want to take a gamble which is understandable, but it makes it that much harder for greener folks, and women of color especially to get in the door.

My advice to those like me, who don’t reflect the majority of the industry, is to find their community and keep showing up. Of course landing your first big job with a network, Netflix production, or Hollywood production is major. But until then hop on projects with your friends, get to know other creators in your area so you can keep working and getting to know the world around you. Network across so you can grow with your siblings in film, as you identify possible mentors in your given field. While your mentor helps you stay true to your ultimate goal, your comrades will inspire you and aid you in strengthening your creative muscles. Show up, give as much as you get and create. Your time will come. It’s taken me since 2016 of on and off work to get to this point and I still have a ways to go.

Anything coming up you would like to shamelessly plug? Long term plans / goals you would like to share?

Shameless plug: I am now the Board VP of 518 Film Network and I’m very proud to announce that 518 Film Network has relaunched and we are now accepting members! We offer filmmakers in the region a chance to connect and showcase their work via screenings. We eventually will be expanding on educational opportunities for members and will be hosting mixers this summer.

FOR MORE INFO: arielle-steele.com

Kinderhook Memorial Library : Finding New Ways to Deliver on It’s Mission

May 2, 2024 By Corey Aldrich

Please state your name, educational and/or experiential background and what your current title and job description is.

My name is Matt Pavloff, and I am the current Director of the Kinderhook Memorial Library. I started in Kinderhook as a clerk in 2012 while I was working on my online Master’s through UBuffalo. Eventually I was promoted to Teen Services Librarian, and was given the opportunity to step into the Director’s position in 2022.

Kinderhook Memorial Library | Architect and Art Historian: Mantle Fielding | Image: Provided

The physical space is a beautiful architectural artifact. Can you tell us a bit about the history of the building?

The Kinderhook Free Library was formed in 1928, and the building was constructed in 1933. It was dedicated in memory of George Davie by his daughter Caroline Davie Lloyd, and designed by renowned Architect and Art Historian Mantle Fielding. The footprint of the library remained relatively unchanged until 2016 with the addition of our quiet reading room, the first stage of our capital campaign. After raising $2.4 million from donors and grants, the full building was completed in 2018. We worked with our architect, Butler, Rowland, Mays and contractor Jim Romanchuk to design a building that could accommodate modern needs and expectations with the historic charm that the Village of Kinderhook is known for. The result is a modern building that still fits in perfectly with the historic buildings that surround it.

Fall 2017 Groundbreaking for a 3000 sqft Reading Room Addition | Image: David Lee

Specifically, since the 2018 renovation, there is a commitment to sustainability in the program. Can you explain what this looks like, why you feel this is important and how that influences your programming and operating considerations?

Even before the renovation, our board and staff recognized that a functional library needs to be forward thinking and resilient to change. They began taking steps to make sure that the library could continue to grow and remain relevant by ensuring that the library was accessible and welcoming to anyone and everyone who walked through the doors. Libraries are for everyone, and we recognize our responsibility to our patrons and neighbors.

Sustainability takes a number of forms. While environmental stewardship is a big part of being sustainable, it’s not the only facet. Our commitment to a sustainable library includes providing a collection and services that reach all members of our community equitably, regardless of income, race, gender, political affiliation, or any other factor. Sustainability also includes our fiscal responsibilities. As a public entity, we want to be sure that taxpayers feel confident in supporting us, and that involves making smart choices with funding. This will ensure that we are as prepared for whatever life may throw at us as we can be, and that we will always be here to serve our patrons.

Flower Arranging Class at Kinderhook Memorial Library | Image: Provided

STEAM Based Programming : Young Makers Learning How to Use a 3D Printer | Image: Provided

Can you share your thoughts on the current role of libraries in our communities and why they are so important, especially in our rural communities?

It seems that there are fewer and fewer places in the world for people to simply exist. The library provides that space—a gathering area for people to simply be without any expectation. It’s a place to meet with friends and associates, catch up with neighbors, go after school, or find some peace and quiet. Where else can someone go to just hang out for hours at a time, all year round? I feel a clean and safe public space is one of the best things that libraries can offer.

In addition to that: libraries are a vast resource of free information and entertainment. Libraries have adapted to changing technologies by providing free internet access and WiFi, DVDs, video game rentals, and more in addition to our managed collection of print books and magazines. Many libraries offer a “Library of Things” that allow patrons to check out unique items: we have nature explorer backpacks, cake pans, and a car code scanner to name a few; other libraries loan out telescopes, fishing poles, gardening tools…it’s fascinating to see what people are borrowing!

All of this is in response to community needs. People want a social hub. They want the opportunity to try new things and learn. And we are always here to listen to feedback and ideas.

Kinderhook Memorial Library Program Flyers | Image: Provided

Can you tell us a bit about funding sources for a program like yours? Some granularity in this answer would be appreciated and super informative to our audience.

Most of our funding is through local taxes. In fact, every couple of years we go to the voters and request an increase in funding, and without fail we’ve had the increase approved. Not only does this help us increase and diversify our programs, but it’s one of the best measures of public support. We also have a wonderful and active Friends of the Library that supports us throughout the year. Many of our services are directly supported through them, such as our Kanopy streaming service, our New York Times and BookPage subscriptions, and our eBook collection through Libby and Hoopla. Circulation of these eResources has increased dramatically in the past 4 years and without support from the Friends, we wouldn’t be able to provide half of what we do.

Our Board has begun leading a few fundraisers as well, and we are thrilled at how successful one of our annual programs, Art Studio Tour has been—not only as a fundraiser, but as a fun experience for our community!

The Art of Telling Stories through Minecraft with Author Nick Eliopulos | Image: Provided

What are your long-term plans as regarding the programmatic mission and the physical space of the library? Any interesting collaborations on deck?

We are very excited to be working on a new tutoring initiative at the Library. This is still being planned, but we are hoping to launch a tutoring service for children at the library—free of charge to families, and with professional, well compensated tutors. We’re also currently exploring collaborations and partnerships to try to take our programs out of our building and into the community to reach those who might not be able to travel to us.

KML Art Studio Tours | Jordan Taylor Hill | Images: Provided

Finally, open question…anything you would like to plug coming up that folks should know about? Don’t be bashful…

Well, we like to think that all of our programs are interesting, but we do have some big, unique ones coming up. First and foremost, this is our second year hosting an Art Studio Tour, and I know that there is a lot of excitement that’s built up from last year’s. This is a self-guided tour that grants access to the studios of local artists, giving participants a behind-the-scenes look at the varying processes of this talented group. We are also hosting a VIP Cocktail Party in Stuyvesant on Saturday, May 5^th, where you can mix and mingle with the artists and enjoy some light fare and drinks. Tickets can be purchased at kmlarttour.com or at the door on May 5 from 1-5pm and Sunday from 11am-3pm.

We’re also hosting a Festival of the Unknown on May 25^th from 11am-2pm, which will bring vendors and lecturers from across the state to discuss and share all things paranormal! On June 15^th in honor of Juneteenth, we’re hosting renowned musician Jordan Taylor Hill at the Kinderhook Farmer’s Market for a hands-on demonstration of West African drumming and dance, and on Saturday, June 29^th we’ll be hosting our fourth annual Drag Queen Story Hour at 2:30pm.