Whether you’re an art collector or you’re just a fan, you’ll want to make time to visit the 44th Art Show: Bedford, to be held in the Fellowship Hall at St. Matthew’s Church, 382 Cantitoe Street—just north of Bedford Village. The annual exhibition features a mix of contemporary and traditional art, sculpture, and photography, plus unique jewelry, glass and pottery items at all price points.

“I always encourage my clients to go to Art Show: Bedford,” says Houlihan Lawrence agent Cynthia Jaffee, who has added to her personal collection at past shows. “It’s an intimate setting, so you can talk with the artists and get a good feel for our community!”

  
Works by Jen Wink Hays and Mitch Paster

This year, Art Show: Bedford, curated by Leslie Henshaw and Dorothy Lanier, is in partnership with artists from Uprise Art> and chashama> in Manhattan, as well as several local artists. "In planning the show, one of the major objectives is to have a selection of contemporary artists who appeal to a wide audience,” explained Laura Blau, the show's chair.

Vanessa Smith, a Bedford artist and documentarian, who exhibited in 2015, is an enthusiastic fan, as well. "It is one of the warmest shows I have ever been in, with something for everyone--either seeing something new, chatting with another artist about her work, or catching up with old friends. The show is a great connector."

Caleb Nssear's piece will greet all who arrive for the show

When you arrive, look for the striking glass sculpture by chashama artist  Caleb Nussear that will be installed outside the church. Inside, in addition to the work of  Uprise Art and chashama artists, you'll find plenty of local talent, including equine photographer Lisa Cohen’s award-winning images of horses and Curtis Lew’s 25 photographs that include strong graphic compositions and landscapes. Lew says the invitation to participate is both an honor and a challenge. Other popular local participants include painters Ashley Andrews of North Salem and Caroline Walker of Bedford Hills.

You won’t want to miss the Preview Party (champagne and apps from Bedford Gourmet) on Friday, January 20, followed by the exhibition and sale on Saturday and Sunday, January 21 and 22. The show reopens on Thursday, January 26, and continues through Sunday, January 29, 2017.

A wine and cheese reception for collectors will be held on Saturday, January 28, with advice and discussion from art world experts.

Best of all, the Art Show: Bedford proceeds benefit more than 20 local charities supported by the Women of St. Matthew’s Church.

More information is available at Art Show: Bedford.