BAA's Annual RAP Party Draws A Creative Crowd

Amy Krzanik reports from Pittsfield. Pittsfield’s 10x10 Upstreet Arts Festival, held for 10 days each February, is an ingenious way to bring residents out of hibernation to attend or participate in readings, concerts, plays, dance performances, children’s activities and more all throughout the city’s downtown. One of the most popular events of the Festival is the Berkshire Art Association’s (BAA) Real Art Party (RAP), held this past Thursday evening, Feb. 23 at the Berkshire Museum. Not only a great way to expose the work of local artists to possible fans, it’s also a way for art lovers to take home a painting, photograph, collage or other piece (ceramics, leatherwork, etc.) for only $25. In keeping with the theme, the 137 creations are 10”x10” and are awarded by raffle — ticketholders are allowed to choose an artwork when their name is called. Proceeds from the sold-out event benefit the BAA college fellowships, art field trip grants for Berkshire high schools, and free admission for art students to the Berkshire Museum. [Above, BAA board members Jayme Kurland, Michael Vincent Bushy, Carrie Wright, Danielle Steinmann and Jenn Gomez.]

Ogden Gigli, Kat Whitney and John Ryall; watercolor artist Amanda Harrington and Mary Ellen Devanny, who donated two pieces to the show.

Artist Jacqueline Pelzek with Dan Cohen, who was lucky enough to be picked fifth in the raffle and chose Pelzick's "Applause;" Regina Burgio, Wren Bernstein, whose work is featured in the show, and Elisa Mishory.

Pittsfield Mayor Linda Tyer with Dianne DiNicola and Bonnie Hoskeer-Kirchner; Ann and Marty Phillips chose an artwork by Carol Kelly.

Anselm Bradford and Sara Lelyveld; Larry Strauss, Fran Weinberg and Roger Gutwillig, who works in the Communications department at the museum.