LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commending the Kirkland Art Center, Clinton, New
York, upon the occasion of the celebration of its 50th Anniversary

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that the quality and
character of life in the State of New York are greatly enriched by its
exceptional cultural and educational institutions; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern and fully in accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commend
the Kirkland Art Center, Clinton, New York, upon the occasion of the
celebration of its 50th Anniversary; and
WHEREAS, For half a century, the Kirkland Art Center (KAC) has been
more than a gallery space; it has been a community center and gathering
space for Mohawk Valley residents to create, exhibit and enjoy art; and
WHEREAS, The Kirkland Art Center was co-founded by artist Howard
Chaney and a group of people who met in a space on the second floor of
the Kirkland Library and wanted to supplement the arts education of area
children; one of the first beneficiaries of the early art lessons
provided was Annette Clarke, Executive Director of the center; and
WHEREAS, Incorporated on December 11, 1960, the KAC organization
acquired 9 1/2 East Park Row in Clinton, previously a church, and its
adjoining barn, and turned it into what is now an active, regional,
multi-arts center, located in the old church, barn and connecting addi-
tion, on the Village green; and
WHEREAS, From the beginning the Kirkland Art Center has offered class-
es, exhibitions, films, concerts and lectures; though the nature of its
activities and its mission have remained steadfast, with the support of
the community, members, volunteers, funding sources and guidance from
the New York State Council on the Arts, its programming has continuously
broadened; and
WHEREAS, Demonstrating quality, diversity and multi-cultural program-
ming, both at the center and off-site, the KAC has become a major
cultural force in the Mohawk Valley and throughout Central New York and,
through cooperation with other cultural institutions, it has developed a
network of services and opportunities for artists and art lovers of all
disciplines; and
WHEREAS, During the past 50 years, more than 70,000 adults and chil-
dren have participated in KAC classes and its coffeehouse series has
presented more than 2,000 musicians during its more than 25 years,
including such well-known artists as Joan Baez, Judy Collins and Arlo
Guthrie; and
WHEREAS, The Kirkland Art Center is proudly and joyously celebrating
the auspicious milestone of its 50th Anniversary with events throughout
the year; its annual events, including Chili Days, the KAC Run & Walk,
Salad Days, and the KAC Used Book Sale are featuring a 50th Anniversary
twist as well; and
WHEREAS, The year-long celebration began with a Birthday Party on
December 11, 2010 celebrating the center's incorporation on December 11,
1960 which included performances by several music groups, refreshments,
and a silent auction of artwork created by artists who were involved in
the center's early years; and
WHEREAS, "50 Years of Art," an extensive exhibition showcasing 28
artists who have an affiliation with the KAC, is on display in the KAC
Gallery and a smaller display of exhibition cards from the past 50 years
is on display in the Executive Director's office gallery; and
WHEREAS, During the center's "Art Rocks" event on April 2, 2011, the
Kirkland Art Center rocked with music throughout the arts center while
artists working in various media, including sculpture, jewelry-making,

print-making, and painting, incorporated rocks into their work which was
then auctioned off with the proceeds benefiting the KAC; and
WHEREAS, A Gala 50th Anniversary Dinner is being held at Hamilton
College on October 15, 2011, and the Kirkland Art Center will conclude
its special 50th Anniversary year with a Holiday Party in December 2011;
and
WHEREAS, The Kirkland Art Center richly merits the recognition and
praise of this Legislative Body for its high standards, innovative
programming and demonstrated service to the people of Clinton, Oneida
County and surrounding areas, as do the individuals who work so dili-
gently on its behalf; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commend the Kirkland Art Center, Clinton, New York, upon the occasion of
the celebration of its 50th Anniversary, noting with pride its signif-
icant accomplishments, enduring commitment, and enrichment of the quali-
ty of life of the citizens of the communities it serves and of people
throughout the State of New York and beyond; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to the Kirkland Art Center.