Artpark’s Unique Foundation – An Introduction

Artpark is a one-of-a-kind cultural center in the 20th century evolution of public spaces for the live and visual arts. A constantly evolving history and culture is central to the land that has become known as the Niagara Frontier, where significant portions are held in civic trust, including the 150 acres that in 1974 were dedicated as the Earl W. Brydges Artpark, named after the state senator (1949 -1972) from the Niagara region, an advocate for the arts.

The Earl W. Brydges Artpark in Lewiston New York, was established in 1970* to afford the People of the State of New York the opportunity to view, enjoy and/or participate in live theatrical performances, musical concerts, dance, and the creation of artwork in the classical as well as contemporary genre, in a family-oriented State Park.

Artpark & Company is solely organized for the purpose of providing financial, management, operating and programmatic support to the 150-acre Earl W. Brydges Artpark State Park. Since 1997, Artpark & Company has operated and continues to manage Artpark with an exclusive license granted by New York State Parks.

Situated on the traditional Indigenous lands of many nations over millennia, and specifically of the Haudenosaunee who live in Western New York, Artpark is committed to working with Indigenous people to create sustainable land-based programming in harmony and balance with the Natural World.

*Originally incorporated as Niagara Frontier Performing Arts Center in 1970 and renamed to Artpark & Co. in 1976.

MISSION

Artpark & Company fosters a transformative world of artistic engagement that explores the human experience, cultivates creativity, and encourages curiosity. Our work is informed by a long tradition of discovery, an expectation of artistic excellence, and an awareness of the inspiration of singular natural splendor.

Located at the birthplace of Niagara Falls, and situated on traditional indigenous lands of many nations, Artpark & Company honors the historic legacy on which it was created, supporting the evolution of the arts and its role as a cultural leader, aspiring to a progressive future. We embrace a philosophy that Art, Culture, and Nature can harmoniously coexist and inspire. We advocate for every art, both known and not yet known, as created in public by diverse artists, often with assistance from their audience, attracted by the discovery, learning, and exploration that the arts encourage.

Each new visit to Artpark brings excitement, curiosity, and renewed perspectives.

Vision

We are an international destination for live and visual arts embracing the relationship of Art, Nature, and Culture to create experiences of discovery and awe.

Values

Creative Excellence – We provide experiential programming that reflects the passion and imagination of both our artists and team, having unique and enduring impacts on our visitors and audiences.

Community – We are a core contributor to the cultural and economic well-being of our region. As a gathering place with many offerings, we are committed to building a sense of community responding to all ages and demographics.

Stewardship - We acknowledge and respect the land on which we operate, situated on the traditional indigenous lands of many nations over millennia and specifically the Haudenosaunee who live in WNY. We are committed to working with Indigenous peoples to create sustainable land-based programming and working in harmony and balance with the Natural World.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion - We manifest the highest standards and maintain the ethical standards of public benefit. We are committed to maintaining full access to programs of original and creative excellence, facilities, and grounds, ensuring both the principles and advancement of diversity, equity, and inclusion, for our team members, volunteers, and artists. Respect – We value all perspectives and opinions of our team, our partners at New York State, and our communities. We listen, lead, and respond together.

Constant Transformation - Our facilities and programming continuously reflect a diverse and ever-evolving group of performers, acts, artists as social issues of our time and of interest to our audiences change. We believe that art does not need to be permanent to be transformative.

Artistic Legacy

 

 

Images from “ARTPARK 1974-1984” published by University at Buffalo Art Galleries, Princeton Architectural Press

As part of Artpark’s new long-term strategic thinking, a major Master Plan has been launched toward an ongoing transformation plan through design, technological advancement, economic sustainability and cultural leadership.

Music and Theater at Artpark

Over the course of the next 40 years, 104 fully staged musicals would be produced and presented on the Artpark stage before audiences ranging from 10,000 to 40,000. Over the course of it 40 year history, over 2.5 million persons have attended musical theater performances at Artpark.

In 2018, Artpark undertook a fresh iniative that gave the spotlight to our Western New York community in a musical theatre production of  THE ODYSSEY by Todd Almond and Lear Debessonet.  This groundbreaking community collaboration involved over 200 participants including theatre professionals, volunteers and community organizations. Broadway stars joined community actors, students and volunteers. Supporters graciously donated food, rehearsal space and monetary contributions. Months of workshops, rehearsals and artistic collaboration came to a triumphant presentation at Artpark's Mainstage Theater on August 4 and 5, 2018.

In our 40 year’s history, some of the lead artists in the nation had performed at Artpark on both our stages – the outdoor Amphitheater (9,999 capacity) and indoor Mainstage Theater (4,000), including:

Alvin Ailey,  Baryshnikov, Bolshoi Ballet, National Ballet of Canada, Joffrey Ballet, New York City Opera, New York Philharmonic, Paul Taylor Dance, Twyla Tharp, Pilobolus, Martha Graham, Bale de Rua (Brazil), Lehrer Dance and many others at the Mainstage Theatre;

Ringo Starr, Bob Dylan, Sting, Aretha Franklin, Hall & Oates, Billy Idol, Steven Tyler, Boy George & Culture Club, B-52s, Blondie, Melissa Etheridge, Chicago, Chick Corea, Flaming Lips, Blood, Sweat & Tears, Jack White, Goo Goo Dolls, Joan Baez, Jeff Beck, Doobie Brothers, Chris Isaak, ZZ Top, Deep Purple, Wilco, Alabama Shakes, Garbage, Arctic Monkeys, Trombone Shorty, The Flaming Lips among innumerous others at the Amphitheater;

David Brubeck,  Ella Fitzgerald, Ethel Merman, Gladys Knight, Itzhak Perlman, Dizzy Gillespie, Van Cliburn, New York Philharmonic, Buffalo Philharmonic in the jazz and classical concerts at the Mainstage theatre.

ARTPARK INITIATIVES IN PROGRESS: 2019 – 2023

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

The Artpark & Company Board of Directors is a volunteer assemblage comprised of community leaders, tourism officials and other esteemed Western New York businesspeople. These individuals are imperative in Artpark's planning process, budget development, sponsorship obtainment and event organization.

 

2022-2023 Board of Directors

ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF LISTING

Artpark Administration line: 716-754-9000

Leadership: 
Sofya (Sonia) Clark, President

Ext. 117, [email protected]

Dave Wedekindt, Vice President

Ext. 146, [email protected]

Click here to meet the rest of our team

ECONOMIC IMPACT