On June 30th and July 1st the new River Studios were dedicated with a ribbon cutting ceremony. This marks the completion of the new studios where Andrew sculpts the clay models and also casts his bronze sculptures.
A crowd of friends, collectors and supporters gathered both days to witness the event and see the new studios which rose up from the ashes of the fire that destroyed the original studios in 2016. (see other post in What’s News) Andrew thanked everyone both there and those who could not attend, those who had both volunteered their physical labor and who sent in gifts of dollars that made the new studios possible.
Andrew’s wife and his longtime friend and collector Harold Rudin did the honors of cutting the ribbon. afterwards people entered the new building and Andrew answered questions while leading people through the bronze process. Music by Rosie Porter and Tommy LeBeau entertained a crowd in the modelling studio.
A wonderful article appeared in the Berkshire Eagle about the new studios which you can read here.
Andrew also sent a letter to the Editor of the Berkshire Eagle which was published Sunday July 8th which you can enjoy here:
Thank you to our community and The Berkshire Eagle
Nearly two years ago our bronze casting studio was destroyed by fire. The journey began with friends who collect our artwork sending us monetary donations, while others volunteered their physical hard labor to begin the large task of rebuilding. The Lenox Chamber of Commerce held a fundraiser at Ventfort Hall, who donated a night in their beautiful museum increasing the funds needed for the project. Donations came in from everywhere in many forms which provided not only the necessary monies but most importantly the inspiration to move forward.
We wish to thank The Berkshire Eagle, its business reporter Tony Drobrowolski and photographers Ben Garver, Gillian Jones and Stephanie Zollshan for covering the story through to its successful ending.
We also wish to thank the Town of Middlefield for their support in our efforts.
Art builds a community. The Berkshires has always been a place where artists of many different forms and diversity can thrive because of the community. Patricia and I wish to thank everyone in our community who has helped us in getting back on our own artistic path.
Sculptor Andrew DeVries and Patricia Purdy
