news day story
Inspired by local history, Nyack arts scene thrives
Originally published: March 23, 2013 10:21 AM
Updated: March 23, 2013 10:32 AM
By ELIZABETH DAZA elizabeth.daza@cablevision.com
Photo credit: Elizabeth Daza | Artist Victor Zaldivar said Nyack, due to the humidity of the Hudson River, has a unique quality of light that artists can appreciate. Sunlight fills his home studio "like velvet," Zaldivar said. (Feb. 28, 2013)
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Although Nyack doesn't have a dedicated train station, it attracts people who appreciate its proximity to Manhattan and the Hudson River. "Down by the Hudson, it's almost as if you're down by the sea," said Leann Mailly, 23, a classically trained pianist. "I guess the juxtaposition of urban and nature provides a cool blend."
The Hudson River is an important element in the work of many Nyack artists. "Living close to the water or to the Hudson River, the light is so wonderful," said Victor Zaldivar, an artist in his early 50s who paints in the style of the Old Masters. "The humidity helps get this sort of light -- it's like velvet, it surrounds the whole space."
At Vincent's Ear, a Nyack art supply store, owner Tracy Kachtick-Anders said that local artists working today seem to stick to a traditional style. "I think a lot of that is inspired by Hopper having lived here," she said. She offers weekly artist workshops and is a founding member of the Nyack Art Collective, a group that helps artists work and exhibit in town. "Also, the Hudson River and the architecture of the homes inspires people to do landscapes," she said.
Artists flock to Nyack for inspiration