Village Trustees Bill Fredericks and Helen Knapp, BAS Co Chair Jane Moynihan, Mayor Mary Marvin, BAS Executive Director Victoria Thiessen

By Tatiana Castro-Taboas

March 30, 2026: The Bronxville Adult School (BAS) opened its second annual exhibit of student artwork in the Yeager Room of the Bronxville Public Library on March 5. Despite the cold rain, opening night was a vibrant celebration of creativity, community, and artistic growth, bringing together an impressive collection of 93 works created by 52 artists. The event drew a lively crowd of friends, families, instructors, and community members, all gathered to admire the dedication and imagination behind each piece.

The exhibit highlights the wide range of artistic techniques offered at the Bronxville Adult School. Among the most represented classes are Acrylics on Canvas, Botanical Portraits in Colored Pencil: Winter Blooms and Brilliant Bees, Nature Journaling in Line and Wash: Twigs, Trees, and Trunks, Colored Pencil Painting, and Watercolor: Next Level Techniques for Creative Expression. Additional works from classes such as Chinese Ink Brush Workshop, Zen Art Drawing, Portrait Drawing, Jewelry Making: Gem Bangle Bracelets, and Pressed Flowers Workshop further contribute to the richness and variety of the show.

“I’m always proud to see the incredible talent within our student community,” said Victoria Thiessen, Director of the Bronxville Adult School. “It is especially meaningful to celebrate both our students and instructors, whose creativity fills not only our classrooms but also the walls of the library during the show. We were grateful to see so many friends, families, and community members supporting their work on opening night.”

The joy was palpable for longtime student Magdalena Beale, who attended the show with three generations of family. Magdalena’s daughter, Sophie Russo, shared what the art class has meant to her mother. “What began as something new has become a joyful routine that leaves her feeling inspired, proud, and fulfilled. I get excited to help register her for classes each session. Ginny Yount’s classes are what she looks forward to weekly.”

Magdalena Beale and family

Zeisler and family at BAS 2026 art show 

Sophie added, “Attending the art show was a joyful experience, seeing her confidence and creativity shine as she shared her work with family. There’s deep gratitude for the supportive, judgment-free space Ginny and BAS have provided through the years. I’m so proud of my mom for embracing the experience in Ginny’s class.”

Fellow student Susan Romita, also exhibiting her creations at the show, was inspired by the variety of artwork. “I love the Bronxville Adult School because of their unique class offerings. Where else can you find cooking classes, unusual art offerings such as broom making and Kintsugi, and classes like juggling and croquet? Seeing the creativity at the student art show inspired me to sign up for three other classes immediately! I think you better find me a room at the school because I’m always there learning new and different things! Love you guys!”

Susan Romita and instructor Joanne Menchine

Yvonne Griffin and family at the BAS Art Show

BAS Students at 2026 art show

Opening night also welcomed notable community leaders, including Bronxville Mayor Mary Marvin and Village Trustees Helen Knapp and Bill Fredericks, underscoring the importance of the arts within the broader community.

This year’s show was made possible in part by the generous support of sponsors: The Arc Westchester Foundation, Jim and Jackie Bunn, Joseph Monteleone, and Next Level Retail. Thanks to their contributions, participating artists had the chance to win $50 gift certificates to several local favorites, including Patsy’s Pizzeria, La Casa Bronxville, Bronxville Wines & Spirits, Urban Hamlet, Opa Opa, and The Picture House.

The art show will run through March 27, offering continued opportunities for visitors to experience the talent and passion of our remarkable students. Please do not hesitate to stop by the Bronxville Public Library. You just may be inspired to try something new! For more information on our classes, visit bronxvilleadultschool.org.