Williamsville Art Society's 2025 Spring Art Show

Gloomy Skies, Lively Walls: The Williamsville Art Society Sheds Light on a Rainy Day 

Spring Art Show brightens the halls of a senior citizen center 

The cover of the pamphlet that was given out at the art show's check in table. Snippet by SKYLAR BARRONS | ENG 397- Digital/Broadcast Journalism.

Twice a year, the Williamsville Art Society hosts an art show at the Amherst Senior Center, located at 370 John James Audubon Pkwy in Amherst, NY. This event allows for local artists to showcase their talent and gather with like-minded individuals. Sarah Ferguson, vice president and featured artist of the Williamsville Art Society, shared her experience of being a part of the art society as well as her love for art and creativity. 

On Sunday, May 4, 2025, the Williamsville Art Society hosted its Spring Art Show. Though the overcast skies and raindrops painted Williamsville in shades of gray, the Amherst Senior Center was live with color and lively artwork for the community to enjoy. The senior center was filled with people of all ages and art of many mediums. Many observed, discussed and admired the artwork. 

Not only did the warm and radiant atmosphere bring the community together, but it also celebrated local innovation.

Upon entering, visitors hear a welcoming tune coming from a pianist. At the entrance, two friendly women greeted guests at a sign-in table where they are required to sign in and are given a program. 

Artwork covered each hall in the senior center. Almost overnight, this center was transformed into a pop-up, local art gallery. The types of art on display were almost endless; ranging from acrylic paint, watercolor, oil, pastel, colored pencil and even photography. Artists creatively expressed their loved ones, a beautiful view, their pets, nature and more. Each masterpiece had a label next to it with the artists' name, their phone number and the title of the work. 

The halls of the center were filled as guests strolled, and viewed the art with a soft piano playing in the distance. The video below shows one of the crowded hallways of people walking through the gallery. 

Of the many artists present at the show, Sarah Ferguson's detailed and realistic artwork stood out. Her technique of capturing moments clearly and beautifully helps viewers have a deeper appreciation for art.

The acrylic painting Sarah Ferguson had on display of her daughter, Tianna Ferguson. Photograph by SKYLAR BARRONS | ENG 397- Digital/Broadcast Journalism.

Ferguson shared that she comes from a relatively artistic family. Her father taught her how to paint when she was just five years old, and each year since, her sister gifted her new mediums of art to learn and perfect. 

"It's my first year. I haven't even completed a whole year," shared Ferguson referring to the Williamsville Art Society. For years, Ferguson has been searching for individuals with similar artistic hobbies, and in less than a year, she was elected vice president for this society which became her community. She displayed pure dedication, leadership, and talent which elevated her from being a member to an officer. 

For Ferguson, running into Kathy Edelman, former president of the Williamsville Art Society, began her journey at the art society. Ferguson was independently selling raffle tickets for her watercolor piece when Edelman inquired on what she was doing; this eventually led her to introduce Ferguson to the art society. 

One Friday a month, members meet to discuss their plans, and coordinate the next art show. "We have over 100 members," said Ferguson, indicating that plenty of talent and ideas are circulated in these two hour, monthly meetings. 

One hallway in the Amherst Senior Center with beautiful, abstract art work. Photograph by SKYLAR BARRONS | ENG 397- Digital/Broadcast Journalism.

The Williamsville Art Society's Spring Show serves as an inspiration to the community as well as gives senior citizens a chance to engage, and do something they may not normally do. Sarah Ferguson's journey within the society highlights growth, and encourages other artists to take the next step and publicly showcase their work. Anyone is welcome to join this society, attend meetings, and be a part of the Winter Art Show. 

The artwork from the Spring Art Show will be on display Monday through Friday 9am-4:30pm and on Tuesdays and Thursdays, until 7:30pm. This gallery will be on public display until Tuesday, June 24, 2025.