CLARYVILLE, NY — Frost Valley YMCA has announced the transformation of Forstmann Castle into a dedicated arts and exhibition space, opening the doors of the historic landmark to new audiences and creative possibilities, Frost Valley said. 

The Gallery at Forstmann Castle will officially debut during Frost Valley’s first Fine Arts Weekend, with a public reception and artisan market on Saturday, May 9. Forstmann Castle is described as a symbol of the region’s history and character. “This transformation reimagines the space as a place where art, nature and community come together, expanding public access and creating new ways for visitors to experience the Catskills.”

The inaugural exhibition features work by local artist Hovey Brock, whose series Crazy River draws from memories, epiphanies and stories about the West Branch of the Neversink River in the western Catskills. Additional works include drawings by Hannah Iannuzzi and a selection from YAI Arts Studio artists, including Jimmy Tucker and Tayloe Schinz-Devico. 

Frost Valley is also partnering with the North American Indigenous Center of New York (NAICNY), which will have a permanent dedicated space within the castle highlighting Indigenous representation, and will present a display of wearable art as part of the inaugural exhibition. 

The opening reception will take place from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., with family-friendly gallery hours from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., followed by an evening reception with artists from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The event will also feature an artisan market and opportunities to engage directly with exhibiting artists. 

“This transformation allows us to open our doors in new ways by creating a dedicated space for the arts, deepening how guests experience Frost Valley, and celebrating the creativity inspired by this place,” said Riel Peerbooms, Frost Valley YMCA CEO. 

Following the opening weekend, the exhibition will remain on view throughout the summer, including as part of Upstate Art Weekend (June 25-29).

Learn more at www.frostvalley.org.