Completing my third year as President of Audubon Artists unfolded a sense of optimism for the future of this famous art society, so steeped in tradition.

Many steps to fruition are undertaken to achieve our magnificent fall classic.  It is the Executive Board, consisting of all volunteers, that remains the target for Audubon’s success.  These Officers, Medium Directors, and Committee Chairs are committed in hosting the art works from 250 exhibitors.

The exhibit selections, made by our Active Member jurors, played a most important role in honing down those eclectic picks.  It is with their expertise in judgment that steered the artists into this quality, national venue at the historic Salmagundi Club galleries located in downtown Manhattan.  The job of our esteemed art museum curators, to zero in on the award winners added another form of excitement and drama. 

Our “Board” extends a warm tribute to all those sponsors who maintain their support for the awards, even in such a fragile economy.  Those who offered cash or in-kind donations to help us keep afloat are acknowledged as well.  May I reach out to the family and friends of our beloved former members in setting up a memorial award to sustain their legacy in Audubon’s history. This award fund is also open for any sponsor to recognize a notable Honorary or Active Member.

In addition, we will continue on with some proven programs, especially the raffle fund raiser of selected art works. I wish to acknowledge those artist members who donated their small gems.

The exhibiting artists recognized the need for financial input for this costly venue and offered their complete support with a new installation fee charge as well. The all digital format in making selections for our exhibit continues to be a success.

Our Associate Membership is the bedrock of this art society as they shape the Executive Board and create the destiny of Audubon Artists. Many non-member exhibitors have switched to this adjunct support group.  Also, new players were added from the junior sponsorship members of the Salmagundi Club as they provided energy in the hanging process.