This summer marks a significant period for New York, not just due to the Knicks’ thrilling NBA championship triumph but also because of a primary win for three Mamdani-endorsed candidates, including a painter, which has brought a wave of optimism to New York City and its surroundings. This hopeful atmosphere aligns with the commencement of Upstate Art Weekend, where local artists showcase their unique perspectives on the world.
The event features 160 artists and organizations, offering a wide variety of experiences—from art installations in cars reminiscent of college tailgates, to rejuvenated empty storefronts, living sculptures, and traditional gallery exhibits. As part of the 2026 edition of Upstate Art Weekend, an annual festival initiated in 2020 to emphasize the cultural offerings of the Hudson Valley and Catskills, Bloomberg Connects will provide a digital guide for visitors to craft personalized itineraries.
Among the standout exhibitions is ‘Betty Parsons: An Expanded World’ at CCS Bard Galleries, curated by Bard alumnae Kelly Taxter and Amy Sillman. This retrospective, running until October 18, is the first major exhibition devoted to Betty Parsons, featuring around 80 works that highlight her pivotal role in 20th-century American art.
‘Loading… Art Invitational Edition No.2’ at The Caboose in Hudson presents curated works from seven New York City galleries, including pieces by Glenn Goldberg. The event, running from June 25 to 29, includes a panel on the Hudson Valley’s art scene and even offers Vermont-style ice cream on site.
In Tivoli, ‘DON’T SIT ON ME’ at Available Items features inventive chair designs that humorously critique various aspects of American history. Meanwhile, OSMOS Station in Stamford showcases solo exhibitions by Mark Delmont and Anne Hall. Additionally, the inaugural Upstate Photography Biennial at the Center for Photography Woodstock delves into the regional history of photography through the works of 39 artists.
