Suffolk County Awards Patchogue Arts Council $20,000 In Funding

PATCHOGUE, NY — The Patchogue Arts Council Museum of Contemporary Art will receive $20,000 from an allotment of over $206,000 that has been earmarked for cultural institutions through Suffolk County's Office of Cultural Affairs’ 2021 Cultural Competitive Fund.

The measure was approved by the Suffolk County Legislature on Tuesday.

The cultural affairs office is “dedicated to promoting and supporting the arts and cultural initiatives, a mission that is shared by the Patchogue Arts Council Museum of Contemporary Art,” according to a news release from Suffolk Presiding Officer Rob Calarco.

He called the Patchogue Arts Council “one of the pillars of the community” for offering opportunities for local and international artists to exhibit their work in “the heart of our bustling downtown.”

“Now more than ever, it is essential that we find ways to support our local arts and cultural organizations whom the fallout of COVID-19 has disproportionately impacted,” he said. “I look forward to another year of exemplary programming and events as they continue to work hard to provide unique, immersive artistic experiences for our residents.”

Beth Giacummo, executive director and curator Patchogue Arts Council and Museum of Contemporary Art, said staffers are excited to see the organizations receive the funding.

“We are so proud of the support for the arts by our local government,” she said. “They continually advocate for the arts, and they are always alongside us for exhibitions, festivals, and events that are strengthening the cultural fibers of the community at large. It's an honor to be awarded and trusted with this funding to provide exciting artistic experiences for the public.”

“We can't wait to bring art to the facades of favorite historic buildings again,” she added.

Other institutions and programs included in the allotment are the Herstory Writer’s Workshop, Inc., which will receive $8,000; the Performing Arts Center of Suffolk County, which will receive $9,6000; and The Jazz Loft, which will receive $6,000.