Super cool gallery/bar. I loved the vintage vibe and setup. We went on a Friday night so there was…read morea DJ in the second room. The music had a nice vibe, somewhere along the lines of EDM, trance, and dub step. The actual bar is pretty small and in the back but there's lots of quaint seating that's almost living room style. Comfy couches and chairs facing each other so it's easy to chat with friends. Their menu mostly features craft cocktails, with a few wine and beer options. There's security at the door checking ID and no food options. So no kids and be sure to eat beforehand cuz the drinks are good and strong.

We were surprised by the length of the wine and beer list. They also have specialty cocktails,…read moreincluding seasonal offerings. I took a chance on the Vampire's Blood cosmo despite having no idea what beet juice tastes like or caring for tart cherry juice, and the risk paid off. It was excellent. It still tasted like a cosmo because of the vodka and citrus, but with an unusual twist. There were three art shows on exhibit. We thought The One by Harry Michalakeas was vampire themed photography, but they were actually pastel/charcoal drawings. Blown away. The other exhibits, Monstrous Dreams by Adam Cooley and Sinister Piffle by Michael Reedy were also very cool. Apt for Halloween, without being too on the nose. The venue also has a lot of unique works by other artists on display, and a space for large music. They host everything from concerts to art shows to author signings, even burlesque. The bar is small with a few tall chairs. There are also small cafe tables and some cozy chairs and sofas. Such a unique and exciting venue.

Awesome little spot to find beautiful handmade pottery, oil paintings, jewelry, notecards, and…read moremore. The painter is at the studio on Saturdays and the potter is there very often, so you can talk to the artists who create the work! This is shopping local at its best! Pottery classes are offered too, stop in or call for details. This gallery is a perfect place to find gifts for art lovers or foodies, or just stop by and be surrounded by beautiful things for a while. Look for the flag next to the road when they are open and go through the open gate to the small grassy parking area.

Fantastic community space and art gallery!…read more I spontaneously ended up here on a Friday night for the Loryn Spangler-Jones art opening; I didn't know what to expect and walked in to check out a large two-story space. It seemed like the bottom floor was more of a store with past artists work for sale, so I made my way up and was enthusiastically greeted by Loryn herself. The artist was a great host -- let me know of the complimentary pizza (from Gino's NY next door) available and to help myself to any beer or wine. Nice! I enjoyed walking around the space and taking in her work and chatting with her afterward about her experience coming to Buffalo. Visiting the gallery was akin to visiting a good friend's house - everyone was friendly and welcoming and it was a joyous way to spend a Friday night. The space itself has infinite raw potential and Don, the owner -- seemed to be very open to collaborating and using his space for various projects. The lighting here is great as well; able to be manipulated to create a unique and moody ambiance. Loved to be able to finally check it out.

Tonight ZGM Fine Arts and Photo 2 Graphics owner Don Zinteck hosted a Peruvian Dinner Buffet…read morecreated by Pure Peru owner and chef Martha Sosa. Patrons dined on both levels of the beautifully lit gallery and feasted on some of Martha's finest Peruvian faire thus far. My absolute favorites were the Seco de Tofu, Cau Cau, and Escabeche de Tilapia. I also enjoyed the Aji de Gallina. Everyone seemed to agree that the Papa Rellena (Stuffed Potatoes) were the star appetizer. As a seafood lover I really enjoyed the Ceviche while the dessert lovers dove into the Purple Pudding. Pop-up events such as this one give the community an opportunity to preview what's coming. As Buffalo stakes its claim as one of the most diverse ethnic food and restaurant centers in the country we hope to see more events like these. On the horizon for these two event hosts: Don & Diann Zintek will be renaming their gallery as simply "1045" in the very near future. Martha Sosa and Pure Peru will be having their soft opening to the long awaited "first" Peruvian restaurant in Buffalo located at the West Side Bazaar making it the home to 4 ethnic restaurants. Job well done and good luck to Don Zinteck of ZGM (1045) and to Martha Sosa of Pure Peru for a great and tasty event. For those who missed it - keep your eye on the West Side Bazaar.

For a solid year, I wanted to go to a first Friday at the AKG. I didn't want to be there one to…read moreattempt Buffalo driving (we circled around to parallel park at 430) and needed someone to echo my musings. Well, I finally made it! We went through check in, where you had to fork over a suggested donation (instead of the usual 22 dollars). They take card, though we gave cash, which seemed like an easier way to exercise the discount. They offered an extra paid section to opt into for an extra 8 dollar charge that we turned down, taking our tiny tags. They're dinky and reusable and gotta attach somewhere to your person. She had also given me a wristband for the strap of Duckles, which had to be checked by a second girl who warned me that I could not wear my knapsack on my back. Could make it a tummy sack or an elbow purse to avoid bumping things, which is how I ended up cradling a stuffed duck around the museum. We hadn't nabbed a map and thought we could wing it. There are qr codes scattered about for info beyond the placards and finding where you have landed. We lucked out and scored a paper map abandoned on one of the numerous benches (there's also chairs and pull out chairs hanging for your resting pleasure) that we attempted to read. My directionally challenged self asked one of the security to send us off to the bridge, given two choices of route. We dodged the scenic way for a temporary outdoor escape, passing more art. Popping back inside we absorbed even more subsets of time and genre, respecting drawn boundaries and only touching things that said we could. There were things that touched us, our souls, that we could take photos of. There were also bizarre things and a bit of nudity. It's all art, including the special presentations and live music and everyday artists sketching in the hall. There was an interactive exhibit in the main that we skipped in the name of rumbling tummies, though we didn't try the cafe. Also avoided the gift shop, cutting out as the crowd began to swell around 6. The place was impeccably clean despite the abundance of windows and smudge worthy doors. It was worth coming out, though I'm unsure how often the exhibits rotate. Come see an authentic famous few and many more that'll have you saying the Albright is pretty *alright*.

The Buffalo AKG Art Museum is our local pride, and requires no advertising or persuasion to visit…read more Believe me, it's a fantastic destination. It's a beautiful space with a nice collection of fine arts. There is a new, three-story extension, a whole new building actually. So, be sure to have plenty of time to explore everything. Their website is very informative and easy to navigate. Check out the current special events and exhibitions. Currently, among others, on display is the "One with Eternity" by Yayoi Kusama, which includes her two Infinity Mirror Rooms and "Pumpkin", a giant orange pumpkin in an orange room covered with black dots. Tickets for this exhibition must be purchased separately and are valid for specific time slots. If there is a big crowd that day, wait a little and don't come from the beginning of your time slot (or figure this out by yourself). We had to leave and come back after a ridiculous experience. Waiting twenty minutes in line to see the actual installation for forty five seconds!? It was very confusing, and I believe there must be a different way to actually enjoy Kusama's work. We came back to see the second room with no wait, but still, with the forty five seconds rule. Ugh... Yes, let's loop if this is the only way which works. Don't forget, the general museum admission is free on the first Friday of the month, and I like that price.

464 is a nice little art gallery on Amherst St. I like them because their art openings are the most…read morefun of any gallery that I've been to. They often involve a DJ/ live band, dancing and it's basically like an awesome house party where there is also art. There are also lots of little trinkets / art you can purchase here. I bought a framed "BUFFALO" photographer that spells BUFFALO out of different cropped landmarks (such as the Richardson-Olmsted Complex, etc). The art was by Brian of FacesofBuffalo -- really cool stuff. Lots of other local art that you can buy as gifts / decor from your house. They also offer studio space for artists for rent. Cool spot!

I kept hearing their name…read more It seemed that everywhere I went 464 Gallery was mentioned, had a place card, or someone was talking about it. My first "exposure" to it was actually at another opening at the Burchfield, I mentioned that I had been to a show in NYC and the conversation quickly turned to "Have you seen what's up now at 464?" I had not, was not even sure where to find 464 Gallery. I heard about the owner, Marcus, during that conversation. That he was focused on providing a space for shows, but also a space for artists to work, 464 Studio. Sadly, I did not go and seek out 464 then. I should have. I read about them next in ARTVoice one week, and thought again I have to go to this place. Then I saw the address and realized it was located on Amherst, just near Wegmans & Lucys, both places I frequent. Then I went to City of Light and talked to an artist who has an upcoming show at 464. And saw that they were major influences at the Silo City event as well. Then they were at Elmwood Art Festival. And I saw the sign for the new spot called Glow on Allen, which opens in a few weeks. Off I went, finally. Found parking, easily, on the street. It's a nice space on Amherst, 2 rooms, lots of different artists work for sale when I went. Some I liked, some not as much, but all local and all interesting in some way. Marcus happened to be there and so we chatted for some time. He opened a few years ago in Blackrock. He said that he does a lot of "events" and the like, which is where a lot of his business comes from, not to mention that fact that his Gallery is on everyone's tongue. Like me he has noticed how much Blackrock is picking up, even in the past year, and hes thrilled by that of course. He lives in the area as well. Galleries can be very hit or miss. You like the show or you don't. Its really that simple. Hes done it a little differently, his gallery does shows, does events, and sells pieces from locals. He does a little of everything. I'm looking forward to going to Glow in a few weeks for an event there as well. I go to a lot of Galleries, large and small, wherever I happen to find myself. I have always enjoyed them. This is one that is committed to the city, the craft, the artists and the community. Its really a "whole package" kind of place, and that's really nice. Marcus is himself a photographer, but he does show other artists' photography in his space. He is an incubator of talent in many ways. He promotes himself of course, but he promotes others as well. Overall this is a Gallery to watch, and I'm sure Glow (on Allen) will be as well.

In Buffalo and the entire Western New York region, everyone ought to know Charles E. Burchfield. I…read moream certain that those interested in art have heard of him as well. He's recognized as one of the most distinguished American painters. Charles Rand Penney was a Buffalo native who donated his collection of Western New York Art, including 183 works by Charles E. Burchfield. The Burchfield Penney Art Center is dedicated to works by Burchfield and by regional artists. You'll see those active in the previous and the contemporary century. The Burchfield Penney functions as a gallery and a museum, serving as an institution affiliated with the Buffalo State University. For this reason, many events are related to education and personal development. It is worth checking what is happening and which events align with your individual needs and interests. Either way, it is definitely a place worth visiting. It's New York's first green museum certified by the U.S. Green Building Council's (LEED) Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design program. It's a two-story open and bright space, pretty great to be honest :). On the second Friday of every month, admission is free. "Be ready for special events, music, workshops, happy hours and more!" It's also free for Burchfield Penney members, Buffalo State University Students, Faculty & Staff, United States and Canada Active Military and their families, United States Military Veterans, ASI Arts Access Pass holders, and children and teens under 18 years old.

A large, bright, two-story museum with several galleries on both floors…read more Unlike many museums which have no art created after 1870? This one will be displaying artwork solicited last year from local artists. Check their website for listings of rotating exhibits and openings.hh

I recently started creating a portfolio of art and used Buffalo Big Print to capture my art scans…read moreand create my giclée prints for sale at my new business. I was able to invest in a bulk order and saved quite a bit with their generous bulk pricing options. Barrett and his team are a joy to work with and were able to digitize my difficult artworks that include gold leaf paint and colour correct accurately for the glare. My original works are 5x7s and the 8x10s look great and the proofs of 11x14s as well. I was given some extra goodies as sample proofs. I also had note card sets made and amazing stickers with a foam core display. Barrett also customized the backs of my cards with a variation on my sticker designs that is super cool and took the time to brand my stickers with my business name. Buffalo Big Print will take the time to get it right and treat your art with respect. I'd recommend them to any artist looking for high quality ink jet prints of their artworks. They offer many tiers of paper and prints.

The staff here are very friendly and knowledgeable, creates a comfortable environment for people…read morewho aren't familiar with the process. I had years worth of artwork that I wanted to frame and Ryan worked with me to find the most affordable option with what I had in mind. Would highly recommend!

What a cool place! Located on a short street called Arthur - up off Tonawanda. A two or three…read moreblock street. The building in unassuming, but it's open to the public. It's a museum of sorts, and a learning center primarily. They have students for the riverside high school and at Mary's school for the Deaf both.

I attended a paint party in Niagara Falls run by Canvas Crashers. Best thing about these parties is…read moreit doesn't matter how talented you are. It's all about having fun with the added bonus of maybe ending up with good results. Owner and our instructor Sal was a lot of fun and gave great directions. Lol even if my painting wasn't exactly like his. All the supplies were laid out ready for us along with an apron to protect your clothes just incase! Good move. Sal does parties in his studio along with off site, like the one I attended. So gather some friends and get ready to have fun. My only suggestion would be to have an example of the finished product available at the beginning to see what your picture was suppose to look like. 2021-175

Such a fun and relaxing night out. Sal does an amazing job and really makes the whole experience a…read morepositive one! Can't wait to go again.