Nearly 20 Local Artists Showcased During Annual Hamptons “Winter Art Show”

Southampton Artists Association (SAA) is launching its 2018 season with SAA’s annual Winter Art Show, which premieres at the Levitas Center for the Arts at the Southampton Cultural Center on Wednesday, February 21.

The 2018 Winter Art Show will feature works from Dennis Bontempo, John Capello, Paul Dempsey, Helen Giaquinto, Pat Griffith, Dave Johns, Ulrike Kreiner, Annmarie LaFace, Danielle Leef, Dom Lamontanaro, Henry Mangels, Galina Melnik, Russell Mercier, Barbara Moeller, Neva Setlow, Jim Slezak, Jim Wightman, and James Witker. Pieces will encompass traditional oils, acrylics, mixed media, sculpted pieces, collages, assemblages, photography and more, all of which will be available for sale at reasonable prices.

POHAKU sacred stones of Hawaii by Ulrike Kreiner-Holzhauer. (Courtesy Photo)

The non-profit, which is comprised of artists of many mediums – including painters, sculptors and photographers – was founded 30 years ago by local Southampton resident artists to celebrate and find ways to showcase local talent.

“The mission of the organization is to offer artists a chance to display their works on a regular basis and for a reasonable fee,” noted SAA board president Dom Lamontanaro. “Among our members are award winning professionals and dedicated artists of all styles.”

Throughout the year SAA presents four gallery exhibitions that include a wide variety of styles and media. In addition to the Winter show, nearly two week-long exhibitions take place over Memorial Day and Labor Day and during the fall.

“SAA promotes art in our community by encouraging local artists to share their work with art lovers, other artists and even those with a casual interest in art, which in turn challenges artists to improve and expand their work,” explained SAA board member Dave Johns.

SAA also curates the annual Art in the Park July outdoor art show at Agawam Park in Southampton, which attracts around 50 artists, and coordinates the art show at Agawam Park during SouthamptonFest.

For local artists looking to expand their expertise, SAA presents drawing and painting classes at the Cultural Center. SAA’s presence can also be seen at a variety of venues, where members work are showcased through the Artists Association. Southampton Town Hall highlights local artists’ works on a monthly basis.

Red Barns in Vermont by Danielle Leef.

“SAA also inspires working artists who haven’t shown their work to take the first step toward being part of an organized art exhibit,” Johns added. “This process builds confidence for emerging artists.”

Additionally, the non-profit awards a scholarship to local high school seniors who are recognized by their art department.

The Winter Art Show will remain on view through Sunday, March 4. An opening reception will be held on Saturday, February 24 from 4 to 6 p.m., while the closing reception is on Saturday, March 4 from 4 to 6 p.m. Admission to both celebratory soirees are free.

Levitas Center for the Arts at the Southampton Cultural Center is located at 25 Pond Lane in Southampton. For more information visit southamptonartists.org.