Jayme Kurland

"The 10x10 Art Party is a special and meaningful event. Every year, artists from the community are able to share their newest work and gather together within an atmosphere of acceptance, warmth, and joy. As artists, we are able to be "seen." As an audience to the other artists, we are able to "witness" and feel inspired. The event is deeply community-oriented and I look forward to it every February!"

Jayme Kurland
BAA Board Member

Stacey Schultze

“The College Fellowship Show helped me gain confidence in my artistic abilities and reconfirmed viewers' interest in my work. The encouragement I received from BAA members allowed me to follow my dreams of becoming a professional artist.”

Stacey Schultze
BAA Board Member

Joseph Messer

“The BAA Fellowship Show gave me my first opportunity to exhibit while studying art at Williams. Seeing my work on the wall helped me be able to picture myself as an artist, something I could never have previously imagined. Getting the chance to be in the VisibleBiennial felt like a full circle moment: whereas the fellowship show helped give me the confidence and support to keep practicing, the biennial gave me the chance to show the fruits of that practice.” 

Joseph Messer
Fellowship Show Artist and Fellowship Recipient 2023, 2024

Melanie Mowinski

"MCLA students look forward to the opportunity to apply to the BAA Fellowship program every year. It's a great opportunity for Berkshire County college students to exhibit their work for a larger regional audience, and for many MCLA students, their first time doing so. The reception brings emerging and seasoned artists together for conversation about the student work which always encourages MCLA students on their paths of creativity. And the fellowship part helps, too!"

Melanie Mowinski
Professor of Art, Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts

Stephanie Graham

“I can confidently say that it's the experiences outside of school that have the most memorable impact on students. We take field trips to supplement the learning we do in class, often seeing in real life, works of art that we studied on a screen or in a book. Changing the context of the learning environment creates renewed enthusiasm, especially when coupled with an artist or museum educator who provides expert knowledge and details that pique our interest. I'm grateful to the BAA for supporting the extra costs of these opportunities, allowing all students the chance to participate.”

Stephanie Graham
Art Teacher Mount Everett Regional High School

Carrie Lobovits Wright

"I am immensely proud to have co-chaired the BAA's Real Art Party and its mission to support the children of Berkshire County. This event brings together local artists and the Berkshire community for a unique and exciting fundraiser that truly embodies the spirit of community. It demonstrates how art can create meaningful change and inspire creative growth for the children in our area. The BAA's Real Art Party not only fosters community spirit but also highlights the positive impact art can have on the lives of Berkshire County's children."

Carrie Lobovits Wright
BAA Board Member

Lisa Ostellino

“I wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude for our ongoing collaboration with the Berkshire Art Association. As an art educator for 28 years, I truly value this partnership, as it has significantly raised student engagement through enriching field trips and experiences outside the classroom.  Additionally, their generous support has enabled us to acquire essential art materials. Thanks to their funding, last year we were able to purchase quality watercolors and easels for the hundreds of students we serve. Together, we are making a positive impact on our students’ artistic journeys.”  

Lisa Ostellino, Art Teacher Pittsfield High School