Arts at SUNY New Paltz recognized at annual Ulster County Executive’s Arts Awards

SUNY New Paltz’s art community was well represented at the 13th annual Ulster County Executive’s Art Awards on June 11, a celebration hosted by the Arts Mid-Hudson organization in collaboration with the Ulster County Executive’s Office. 

Professor Emeritus of Art History William Rhoads, alumna Lara Giordano ’94g (Painting & Drawing), former director of the Samuel Dorsky Museum of Art Sara Pasti and sculptor Trina Greene, who designed the Sojourner Truth statue currently featured in Kingston’s City Hall, were among the honorees.  

Rhoads received the Impact in the Arts award for his multitude of in-depth scholarship on the arts and architecture in the Hudson Valley region, while Pasti and Giordano were honored as part of the Midtown Kingston Arts District with the Arts in Education award and Greene received the Activist award for her evocative bronze sculptures exploring the human spirit.  

Their recognition exemplifies the University’s place as an institution supporting and uplifting cultural history and contemporary art in the Hudson Valley area. 

“Their dedication enriches our communities and strengthens the County’s vibrant tourism economy,” said Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger in a statement. “The arts play a crucial role in our collective well-being – igniting creativity, expanding our perspectives and elevating our quality of life.” 

The Ulster County Executive’s Art Awards is an annual event sponsored by Arts Mid-Hudson each year to recognize the creativity, dedication and impact of local artists and other individuals involved in the art scene. Awardees this year received handcrafted trophies that had a special University connection, as they were designed by alumna Lex Feldheim ’08 (Ceramics), owner of Kingston Ceramics Studio.  

Arts Mid-Hudson supports thriving artists from diverse backgrounds and mediums throughout the Mid-Hudson Valley with advocacy, exhibitions, performances, folk arts programs, festivals, awards and more. Each year, they administer New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA) funding in Dutchess, Ulster and Orange Counties, with competitive grants awarded to artists, schools, community groups and arts organizations. For more information on Arts Mid-Hudson, click here. 

Click here to learn more about the School of Fine & Performing Arts at SUNY New Paltz.