TROY, N. Y. -- Located in the heart of downtown Troy, on Monument Square, the 36,000 square foot, three-floor Arts Center of the Capital Region is celebrating its golden anniversary.
"We were started by artists and also by the New York State Council on the Arts to serve Rensselaer County and Albany County and Schenectady County specifically with our granting program, but now we are the Arts Center of the Capital Region," Elizabeth Reiss said, Arts Center of the Capital Region CEO.
For 50 years, the center has offered classes that span every facet of the arts.
"We have pottery classes and stained glass, we've got movement classes, yoga and tai chi," Reiss explained.
Whether you're an an adult looking to relax or a teen or kid craving freedom of expression, chances are there is a program here for you.
"Of course we've got painting and drawing. What I like about those programs is we have them from the very beginning stages if you've never picked up a piece of charcoal," Reiss said.
Classes like "Drawing for the terrified" allow people to learn the basic skills without fear of judgement.
The center also allows for people like Monica Bill Hughes, the current artist in residence, to work and display her pieces for everyone to enjoy free of charge.
"It's funny how people say art is being cut, they're being cut in schools and that's something that I'd love to address long-term but nonetheless I think that's what makes the center even more relevant as we struggle to find ways to bring the arts to our children," Reiss said.
To those who have the desire to learn but may not be financially prepared to dive in right away, Elizabeth says, just give them a call.
"We've had wonderful support from our donors and foundations to make sure there is no barrier to attending any class at the Arts Center," said Reiss.
For more information on the Arts Center of the Capital Region can be found here.