Art Omi facts for kids

Art Omi is a special place in Ghent, New York, where artists from all over the world come to create. It used to be called Omi International Arts Center. This organization helps writers, artists, architects, musicians, and dancers by giving them a place to live and work. It's a non-profit group, which means it uses its money to support its programs. Ledig House is the main building at Art Omi, where people gather.

History of Art Omi

Art Omi was started in 1992. It was founded by Francis J. Greenburger, who is a real estate developer and literary agent. He is still the chairman of Art Omi today. Other founders included artists Sandi Slone and John Cross. The name "Omi" comes from a small village in the Hudson River Valley. This area is about two and a half hours away from New York City.

What You Can See at Art Omi

Art Omi is located in Columbia County in Ghent, New York. It has a large outdoor area called the Sculpture & Architecture Park. This park is open to everyone all year round. It features more than 70 art pieces and buildings. The park covers about 120 acres of land.

Buildings at Art Omi

The main part of Art Omi has three separate buildings. These buildings include 18 guest rooms and three conference rooms. There is also a library and other shared spaces. Ledig House is a converted farmhouse from the 1830s. It is the main meeting place at Art Omi. The main work area is a two-story converted barn. There are also several smaller sheds for artists. The Charles B. Benenson Visitors Center & Gallery opened in 2008.

Art and Sculpture Exhibitions

Art Omi shows three main types of art: Architecture, Art, and Sculpture.

Architectural projects have included works by Beom Jun Kim and Wendy Evans Joseph. Other architects like Caroline O’Donnell and Jenny Sabin have also shown their designs.

Art projects at Art Omi feature many different artists. These include new artists and those who are more established. Some artists who have shown their work are Jeffrey Gibson, David Shrigley, and Tschabalala Self.

Sculpture works have been displayed by artists like Alicja Kwade and Olaf Breuning. Other sculptors include Dan Colen and Arlene Shechet.

Programs and Activities at Art Omi

Art Omi offers five different programs for artists to live and work there. These are:

• Art Omi: Architecture (for architects)
• Art Omi: Artists (for visual artists)
• Art Omi: Dance (for dancers and choreographers)
• Art Omi: Music (for musicians)
• Art Omi: Writers (for writers)

Educational Programs for Kids

Art Omi also has many fun educational programs. These programs are for children and young people. Some examples include:

• Winter Art Camp
• Spring Art Camp
• Saturday Children's Workshops
• Camp Omi
• Artgarten

Public Events and Talks

Art Omi invites experts like gallerists and curators to give talks. These visits help the artists living there. They also connect artists to the New York art world. Art Omi often holds public events. These include art exhibitions, readings, concerts, and dance performances.

How Art Omi is Funded

Art Omi gets its money mainly from donations. These donations come from foundations and individuals. A big event to raise money is held each spring in New York City.