I applied to Bard, got in, and it was in my top ten, but ultimately, I didn't feel a deep…read moreconnection to the college when I spent a weekend there. It was the EXACT opposite experience when I visited Hampshire College (which is why Hampshire was my top choice and is now my Alma Mater) comparatively. I also found Western Massachusetts FAR more beautiful than the Hudson Valley. Bard's campus is indeed beautiful, BUT, isolated in my opinion. It's a single institution, surrounded by small hamlets of towns. It's fairly close to some good skiing at Hunter Mountain (skiing in New England is better) than a lot of the Catskill Mountains though, if you ask me. I prefer the Adirondacks. All that aside, Bard just didn't "connect" with me entirely. I don't think it was the right college for me, but it does have a GORGEOUS campus.

A remote place, even though it's only a couple of hours' drive from NYC. The students are for the…read moremost part personable and well prepared, and the faculty has many stars on it. They just lost President Botstein, though, so the college's future seems uncertain.

This gem is a must-visit and an incredibly welcome addition to Red Hook Village. The selection is…read morelovingly curated with all varieties of makers in mind (sewing, weaving, spinning, dyeing, needlework, et al.) They also have a lovely selection of gifts for anyone! There is a definite focus on using naturally-derived materials in the space, and that's brilliant. I had a lovely time chatting with Kelly (proprietor) about all kinds of crafty stuff (so knowledgeable!) and it was instantly clear that she built this place with her heart and with our community in mind. Highly recommend.

I love this gallery right in the heart of the village but also love the classes Betsy teaches…read more She's constructive, kind, helpful and inspiring with her own work. The students are welcoming and warm; we bond! And I can't wait to travel with Betsy to paint abroad some time. As good as it gets!

From the owner: Exhibiting works in watercolor by Betsy Jacaruso, the Cross River Artists, and guest artist…read moreexhibitions. Art classes and workshops offered year-round, located in the Village of Rhinebeck, New York. Watercolor schedule: Mondays 10-1 Tuesdays 2-5 Wednesdays 10-1 Saturday 10-1 Online booking available on website. Betsy Jacaruso, received her BFA with honors from the Pratt Institute of Art and Design in Brooklyn, NY in 1979. Through the years, she has gained the reputation for being not only a talented painter, but also a gifted instructor who teaches drawing and painting techniques as a way of realizing individual vision. Her students find her mastery of watercolor painting invaluable in the process of learning to handle the complexities of the medium.

Had the absolute best first time learning pottery!!! Something I have been coveting and meaning to…read moretry Judi was an amazing instructor and we booked a group lesson for 8 individuals. Everyone got as individualized attention as humanly possible and learning pottery on the wheel was way more intricate than anyone could have guessed. The best part was the way in which Judi walked us through centering and coning in order to keep our pieces still spinning together! Colors were picked towards the end and we were all able to add stamps or indentations as well. There was (still might be) discounts for 2 hour lessons with big groups at a set rate so check it out if you and a group want to make something! Not to mention, some of Judi's pottery was available for sale! Got the last two for a few dollars each and super satisfied!

I've spent a lot of this past summer in and around HVP My…read moredaughter attended Clay Camp and several Teen classes. I was really proud of her work and she really enjoyed it The teachers and other Potters that come and go were all very friendly and supportive I loved the spot when it was a bakery / cafe and it's still a pretty place to sit outside As a small business / artistic endeavor it can change open hours & classes on the fly so call ahead

Not to be missed. Leon Botstein, President of Bard College, is an accomplished musician, conductor…read moreand historian of music. He has overseen the development of Bard as a powerhouse of musical activities. The Summer Music Festival is focused this August on Puccini. But beyond the festival itself, Bard is a virtual buffet of music of all genres set in unique venues set in a bucolic Hudson Valley setting. I just saw a cabaret performance in the Spiegeltent. It's an easy trip north to Bard from Grand Central Station and a reason to plan a trip to the Hudson Valley. There's nothing comparable in Napa Valley, and New York even has some decent wines now. I cannot overstate how beautiful Bard College and the surrounding countryside is and how much music is packed into these few months. BTW, Leon Botstein and I were in the same year at Music & Art High School many years ago. Even though he definitely doesn't know me-he never did-I admire what he has achieved, and the pleasure it brings to music lovers.

Challenging ideas made me think a lot. Explaining God's existence logically and scientifically?…read moreGood luck. I can agree on the world after death is not simply heaven or hell. Finding a mutual way for Buddist, Islam, and Christians to be happy together? You try it. Shalom

Beautiful contemporary art gallery. The best in the area! Great place to find new and exciting…read moreHudson Valley and regional artists who exhibit both nationally and internationally.