The studio space is tidy, small but efficient for 8-10 people, with a section for potter's wheels,…read morea slop sink, storage shelving, a separate room for the kilns, and two butcher block work areas for slab creations or glazing. I was given classes at ArtYard as a gift several times, and each time by the end of the session, I vowed not to return. Have you ever experienced waiting in line somewhere while the associate chit chats with others, like you're not even there? You might have a question, but you're stuck, waiting, until they're good and ready to address you? And your inquiry is even brief, but you must wait? This is what it feels like taking a "class" at ArtYard - it's really more like you're renting the studio space for six weeks, which if you had acquired the necessary skills would be fine. I expected an attentive teacher walking around offering encouragement, tips and advice to students, and rooting them on, like the substitute that was there once, he was amazing! However, you must simply wait for a break in the conversation, say please, and not chew gum in class if you'd like help. Or to keep from idling, ask another student for help. One can be talented at what they do, but not have the heart of a teacher. (And yes, I understand that there is a certain amount of trial and error to creating art such as pottery: figuring things out, making your own mistakes, trying, trying again. I get that. I am a designer for a living.) Contacting the instructor - via phone, email or text - was unpredictable, you may or may not get a response. Sadly, I got to the point where I could take "the attitude" no longer: frustrated, upset, and humiliated, I walked out of the second class, and didn't return. And no one with the heart of a teacher would allow that to go unnoticed. But they did.

Wonderful studio experience. Thom is a talented and patient teacher. You will have the…read moreopportunity to experiment with many different aspects of pottery. Overall, a laid back and fun environment.

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.

This is a beautiful building that was once a public library, and is now an art center. The stained…read moreglass ceiling is spectacular. The natural light in the building really sets off the art. I especially liked the photography exhibit. There was a concert being performed on the lawn featuring The Alex McArthur Quintet. They were awesome and played lots of my favorite tunes. They have concerts on the lawn every Thursday evening in the summer. Bring a chair, some snacks, and a beverage and prepare to be entertained. There are many large trees for shade, and a big parking lot. There is a very peaceful, relaxing vibe here.

- [ what happened to the Carnegie center? Two times at opening in few months I went when the…read morebuilding was locked when the web said open hours. when we did go, they didnt the person said they don't work there just helping and can't answer my Questins. what happened? The social media is updated but sometimes and hours should maybe be fixed

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.

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.

This is a very cool art gallery where all the artists on display and in-residence have some sort of…read moredevelopmental disorder. You'd think the art would reflect that in some way, but I couldn't tell! A lot of the works on display are something that I could only dream of creating. The space is very open and inviting. There is an artist teacher here, Lily who supports and mentors those who are a part of the Starlight Gallery. The space is bright and they often have live music, wine, etc for First Friday's and it's a great time to check them out (or anytime during their regular hours).

Starlight Studio is one of my favorite places in the city--really a hidden gem. The studio is…read moredevoted to supporting adults with disabilities in their artistic development. The result is a truly energized, positive, and uplifting space where imaginations are unleashed. The gallery hosts a wide variety of solo/group art shows throughout the year, featuring work by both Starlight artists and other local painters, sculptors, photographers, ceramicists, and more. Most include live music, food trucks, and some snacks. The quality of the artwork is always outstanding. And supporting the studio's efforts with a purchase (always very reasonably priced) is a double-plus good--you get great art for your home; the studio gets to keep supporting and training these wonderful artists. If you need a serious feel-good, pick-me-up, head to Starlight. I always feel lighter, happier, and more inspired after a visit.

This place is so much fun to go with your friends or even a child's birthday party. There are…read moreinstructors to show you how do your paining

Painting with a Twist is always a wonderful experience. It doesnt matter how well your painting…read morecomes out. It matters that you have a fun experience with your friends. This is the second time my husband and I have attended an event together. I have been many times. We brought a charcuterie board, some bubbles and had a great time painting the highland xmas cow. Frankie and Megan were so fun teaching the class. The music was a vibe and it was a great night.

it was beautiful and nice staff! very clean and cheap for students as well. i loved the portraits…read morethe most

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.

It has been my dreams for years to attend this fair. Finally, this year, I made it. It did not…read moredisappoint. My friend and I got to the outer harbor around 11:45 a.m. and there was a lot of parking. When you first entered the fair, there were many food trucks, and makers tents. I was so impressed by that. I made a stamped metal necklace, that came with a chain (what?!), and a shibori bandana, which I will be using as a decorative setting on my kitchen table. There were galaxy tiles, and a needle working class, that unfortunately, we didn't get to do as well. The volunteers working the booths were amazing, thank you for spending your day with us!!! The vendors are awesome. There is something unique and fun for everyone. I can't wait for the next one in 363 days.

Jack Kraft is one of the sons of Robert Kraft, I think - the owner of the Patriots. But I could be…read moremistaken. He runs this fair annually. In 2016 it took place at the wonderful old Grand Central Terminal. An abandoned railroad station in the heart of Buffalo's East Side, which is slowly being renovated from ruin into a haunting and useful place. It was a pleasure to be part of the event, I got to sample several of the food trucks outside (Lomo Lomo, Tuk Tea, and more), and check out all of the stalls selling every little kind of trinket and ornament and craft-type item you can imagine. The people at the stalls were generally really great, and I had a good long chat with the musician playing on stage, who had been on X Factor or The Voice (can't remember which) at some point in the past. He knew a lot of pop hits and it was fun listening to him. If you're into Crafts, or guys named Jack, then make sure you come to the JCF next year or at some time in the future.