News
September 26, 2017Albany Housing Authority and Albany Barn Hosting Block Party to Launch Revitalization Campaign
On Friday, October 6, the Albany Housing Authority and Albany Barn will host a block party at the North Swan Street Park to kickoff He(Art) of The Hill, an initiative to establish North Swan Street as a hub for the art community and attract businesses to the neighborhood. The block party will feature workshops for adults and children, live music, food and more.
The block party will take place from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the North Swan Street Park. The Albany Barn will host adult and children’s workshops, where guests will be led in hands-on creative projects. Attendees can also participate in a yoga demonstration in the park, have access to an art exhibition at Stage 1 gallery, a chance to watch live music, enjoy delicious food and potentially win prizes.
“We are committed to revitalizing the North Swan Street neighborhood in Albany because of its deep-rooted history and potential for growth,” said Steven T. Longo, executive director of the Albany Housing Authority. “With He(Art) of The Hill, we hope to further establish the neighborhood as a hub for artists and provide an enticing reason for businesses to move to the area.”
The Albany Barn, a non-profit organization that provides resources for the creative arts community with exhibit and studio space, opened on North Swan Street in 2014. With the Barn’s presence on the North Swan Street, other artists, community events and organizations have started to converge in the area.
“We’re proud to serve the North Swan Street community by providing access to visual and performing arts programs that weren’t as easily accessible before,” said Kristen Holler, executive director of the Albany Barn. “The block party on October 6 is a great example of events that help bring the community together and provide a chance for the neighbors to be involved in the creative and economic improvement of North Swan Street.”
He(Art) of The Hill will officially launch in early 2018, with the Albany Housing Authority and Albany Barn working to establish community partners through the rest of this year. For those interested in getting involved, contact the Albany Housing Authority or Albany Barn.
