Lillian Kahris
Buffalo Arts Studio is a not-for-profit arts organization whose mission is to provide affordable studio space and exposure for visual artists while creating community cultural connections through exhibitions, public art, and educational programs.
Work Highlights
- Conducted independent research to help BAS maximize its public art program as an economic vehicle. The research focused on public arts programs that successfully promote economic revitalization in Buffalo and other rust belt cities.
- Created a report with suggestions for how communities can utilize the arts as a tool of economic and cultural revitalization.
- Worked with the BAS staff, community activists and artists to develop a plan of action based on this report.
- Supported daily operations of the gallery including managing exhibits, tours, administrative support and communications.
In their own words
“I learned a lot about smaller organizations in Buffalo that are doing great things. Being from Buffalo I knew a lot about PUSH, MAP, CEJ etc., but I didn’t know anything about smaller ones such as Buffalo Arts Studio, or Young Audiences. I learned that there are so many opportunities for service learning, and it’s inspired me to continue community engaged service learning when I return to campus in the fall. I’m connected to Cornell’s Public Service Center in a different capacity, but now I feel more inclined to connect with the greater Ithaca community in a more meaningful way.”
Impact
“Lilly was professional, organized, thorough, and took initiative. Her final research project reflected these qualities. Buffalo Arts Studio is utilizing her findings for two programs, a youth public art workforce training program for next summer and an arts program for incarcerated youth. Lilly also excelled in the hands-on component of this fellowship by supporting with exhibit installation and deinstallation, data entry, event management, and communications.”
Shirley Verrico, Curator
Buffalo Arts Studio