-Photo Credit: Art League of Long Island, Weeping Cherry by Holly Gordon

The Art League of Long Island has played a major role in the local art scene since its inception as the Huntington Township Art League.

The League was formed in the early 1950s out of artists seeking a shared space both for camaraderie and to explore the arts. They have come a long way from holding their initial classes in a barn. This grassroots group of artists, after switching between several homes and titles, was eventually transformed into the modern Art League as known today.

Described as a “sweet history” by gallery coordinator and curator Susan Peragallo, she mentioned that the current Art League property, which resides in Dix Hills, was possible thanks to a sizable bequeathment from one Elizabeth Livingston.

For many years now, the Art League has been at the height of Long Island’s artistic community, offering countless classes and opportunities for artists in almost any medium. With one of the Island’s finest galleries and many plans on the horizon, the Art League hopes that their new virtual exhibition, Awakening, will resonate with audiences nationwide.

The pandemic has seen the Art League struck hard, having closed their doors for a little while in what was described as a difficult time financially. “We feel like we’re getting our sea legs back,” said Peragallo, who was excited to share the variety of new programs and events that the revitalized Art League has in store.

As far as classes are concerned, the Art League will be conducting a Summer Art Adventure Program for children up to 14 years of age, as well as a Pre-College High School art program for those ages 15 through 18. Particularly exciting is the high school program’s final exhibition, which will feature the young artists’ projects.

There are still classes being taught virtually for those uncomfortable with in-person classes Those wanting to learn in person also have plenty of opportunities to explore as pandemic restrictions lessen. A tent on the premises houses certain classes, taking advantage of the property and allowing the artists fresh air while they practice their art. You can learn about what the Art League offers here.

The Art League of Long Island also emphasizes their exquisite gallery, which has housed the works of notable local artists. Their upcoming virtual exhibition, Awakening, includes their first national open call, hoping to bring in talented artists throughout the country.

Typically the Art League keeps their calls for artists to the Long Island area, stretching into Queens and Brooklyn. Though the call ends soon, there is a possibility it will be extended in order to bring in more artists.

“I thought that word explained where we’re at. Not just the art league, but the whole nation, really. We’re all kind of waking up and stretching, saying ‘Okay, we can start again, we can talk to people again,’” explained Peragallo. The powerful word is apt for the Art League’s first exhibit since the pandemic forced their temporary closure, though it is also open for interpretation, something Peragallo is looking forward to. “I’m hoping to encourage all those interpretations,” she said.

For those wishing to explore the gallery in person, a few in-person shows have been slated for after the summer. Their first in-house exhibit will be in September, titled Harvest: A Season of Gathering. This show ushers in the fall season by highlighting the works of Ellen Hallie Schiff and Constance Wain, two long-time members of the art league.

“It will be a compilation of their works, sort of a retrospective,” stated Peragallo. Each artist will take a floor of the gallery. “We’re all excited that it’s going to be the big first exhibit.”

An instructor’s exhibit will be following Harvest, showcasing the talented members of the Art League who have made their successful classes possible. The event will work both as a showcase, as well as a way for prospective students to learn more about instructors and their style.

Finally, the biennial Long Island Artist’s Exhibit, a major exhibition that has become very popular over the years will be held in 2021. “There is no specific theme,” said Peragallo, “So that we include all artists of any medium… It’s always a very exciting show.”

The Art League of Long Island is a proud sponsor of local arts. To support them, feel free to visit their website for information on classes, exhibitions, and donating. They also provide updates on events through their Facebook. You can find them at 107 East Deer Park Road, Dix Hills.