After three months of virtual programming, the Southampton Arts Center opened its doors Thursday after receiving authorization from the Village of Southampton, the Town of Southampton, and Suffolk County. The center is celebrating with something old and something new.
“TAKEOVER 2020! Artists-in-Residence,” which opened in February only to see its run interrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic, will return and continue through July 12. The exhibition will reunite the work on view in the galleries with the participating artists Jodi Bentivegna, Michael Butler, Isadora Capraro, Franco Cuttica, Esly Escobar, Melinda Hackett, Erica-Lynn Huberty, Dinah Maxwell Smith, Miles Partington, and Kerry Sharkey-Miller.
The new initiative, Public Art Project, is set to open on June 27 and will consist of installations on both the east and west lawns of the building. Organized by Amy Kirwin, the center’s artistic director, and the artist Eric Fischl, the exhibition will feature works by Saskia Friedrich, Alice Hope, Bryan Hunt, Laurie Lambrecht, Steve Miller, and Mr. Fischl.
“We have always wanted to highlight our beautiful grounds by installing artwork for the public to enjoy while taking advantage of the property,” said Ms. Kirwin, “and it made perfect sense to pursue this now. The artists chosen all have works that will be in conversation with and draw attention to the stunning natural surroundings and existing sculptural features.” The Public Art Project will be on view through Sept. 13.
For “TAKEOVER 2020!” each artist has a pop-up studio where they work on new projects alongside installations of finished works. Gallery visitors will be required to wear masks and practice social distancing. The gallery’s capacity will be limited, and the center’s theater will be closed until phase four of New York State’s reopening.
Suggested admission to the galleries is $5, free for members and children 12 and under.