If our long upstate winter has left you eager to get out and explore new venues, meet new people, and try your hand at a new artistic endeavor, be sure to check out the classes and workshops offered at the Paul Nigra Center for Creative Arts in Mayfield. Tucked away on an idyllic wooded drive just off NY Route 30, this stunning, open-to-the-public facility provides year-round opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to nurture their curiosity and immerse themselves in the fine arts, crafts, music, yoga, dance, and culinary arts.

When visiting the Arts Center, be sure to take in its gorgeous art gallery. Six distinct exhibits scheduled for 2026 will feature the works of local artists as well as artists from around the country. The Center’s current Regional Art Show drew more than 300 people to its opening reception. Featuring the works of established artists as well as the art of scores of students from surrounding schools, this exhibit is a testament to the power of creative expression at any age. The Center’s New York State Summer Art Show will begin May 22, with an opening reception Thursday,
May 28, 4-7 p.m.

During school breaks and summer vacations, the Paul Nigra Center for Creative Arts offers invigorating options for children ages 5-12. Designed to inspire creativity and build confidence, these classes encourage young artists to explore a variety of mediums while learning, creating, and having fun in a welcoming environment. Each day provides an immersive experience filled with art, creativity, and social connection, giving children the opportunity to express themselves while making new friends.

In addition to its gallery and kids’ art programs, the Arts Center hosts a wide range of cultural, corporate, and social events. Arts Center staff work closely with each event host to personalize their experience and ensure that every detail meets their unique needs. Over the years, the Center has hosted everything from customized fundraising events, business meetings, training sessions, and retreats to weddings, birthday parties, and other festive celebrations.

The Arts Center is well-known for its prestigious gallery and diverse class offerings. But equally amazing are the architecture and hand-crafted furnishings, accent walls, and lighting of the building itself. As you step through the main entrance, take a moment to study the vestibule’s many unique and artistic features. In the Grand Gallery, massive ceiling beams, ornate sconces, stone, shale, and copper walls, and one-of-a-kind furniture all point to a creative vision and execution seldom seen in today’s modern buildings. Designed and constructed by esteemed local builder Tim Delaney, with elegant-earthy interior touches by furniture artist Jonathan Sweet of Johnstown, a tour of the Arts Center building is an experience not to be missed.

The Paul Nigra Center for Creative Arts was founded in 2015 by The Arc Lexington, an award-winning agency that has supported people with autism and developmental disabilities in Fulton, Schoharie, and Albany counties since 1953. The Arts Center is co-located with Transitions, a division of The Arc Lexington that supports young adults with autism and other learning differences, helping them to succeed in college, employment, and independent living. Transitions can help students study more effectively or learn a trade. But, even more, the program specializes in working with individuals to set, pursue, achieve, and exceed their own personal goals.

The Arts Center is also home to Flame, the world-renowned rock band comprised of talented musicians who happen to have disabilities. In the decades since its 2003 founding, this inspiring group has spread its love of music near and far, performing on local stages as well as venues as far away as Cambodia, Italy, and Greece. (Check out Flame music videos on YouTube!) 

Above all, the Paul Nigra Center for Creative Arts was envisioned and designed to be an all-inclusive space: a place where people of all walks of life could find inspiration and encouragement to pursue their own creativity and artistic dreams. “We want our community to feel that this is their art center, a welcoming space to gather, socialize, and experience the arts,” says Maria Nestle, director of the Arts Center.

“The Paul Nigra Center for Creative Arts is truly a destination for creativity and connection,” adds Shaloni Winston, CEO of The Arc Lexington. “Whether you’re an experienced artist or simply curious to explore something new, we welcome people to experience all that the Arts Center has to offer. It’s a place where creativity is nurtured, community is strengthened, and everyone is encouraged to belong.”

To learn more, visit www.pncreativeartscenter.org or visit them on Facebook. The Center is located at 2736 State Highway 30, Gloversville, NY, 12078; 518-661-9932.
Gallery hours: Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.;
Saturday 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Closed Sunday. Hours subject to change for holidays or special events.