Art Day in the Village is a grassroots celebration connecting artists and community members through local art. We exist to inspire everyday creativity and to offer local creators a welcoming space to share their talents through various mediums of creative expression.

Stacey Burgay is a New York–based artist, creative producer, and Founder of That Creative Space. After years in television and advertising, Stacey—a lifelong maker—found herself disconnected after she stopped creating art. A continuing education mixed media class at Parsons became her path back to herself. After losing her job in 2024, she looked around Beacon and saw a need for affordable studio space and a welcoming place where adults could explore creativity. She opened That Creative Space in September 2025, believing creativity brings people together and strengthens community. Since then, the studio has welcomed more than 200 students and was voted Chronogram Readers' Choice #3 Best Art Class in the Hudson Valley.

Nicole Asendorf is an artist, arts educator, and owner of Hoshyla Farms in Manorville, New York. Since 2007, she has inspired creativity through private instruction, public schools, and as an Art Specialist for the Department of Defense. Her work is known for its expressive use of color and texture, evolving from abstract painting to landscapes inspired by nature. Working primarily in oil and acrylic, she incorporates resin and organic textures to create richly layered pieces that capture the tranquility and energy of the outdoors. Through her art, Nicole invites viewers to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with nature.

Founded in 1989, the Mid-Hudson Discovery Museum has become a regional leader in youth arts programming and creative learning. For more than three decades, MHDM has helped children discover their voices through visual art, performance, storytelling, design, and imaginative play. Its Art Studio, interactive exhibits, school and library partnerships, community festivals, outdoor arts experiences, and accessible family programs have brought high-quality arts education to generations of Hudson Valley children. From its beginnings as a small children’s museum to its home on Poughkeepsie’s waterfront, MHDM remains committed to making the arts joyful, inclusive, and central to how young people learn, connect, and see themselves.

Founded in 2003 by music therapy pioneer Dr. Russell Hilliard, Hudson Valley Hospice’s Music Therapy Program has become a hallmark of compassionate, innovative end-of-life care. Using the power of music to comfort, connect and heal, the program helps patients and families ease anxiety, foster communication and create meaningful memories. 

Established in 2004, the Music Therapy Internship Program has mentored 75 students worldwide. Under the leadership of Terry Blaine, LCAT, MT-BC, since 2008, the program has grown to include ten board-certified music therapists and three interns providing care in homes, hospitals, nursing homes and the Hospice House, advancing Hudson Valley Hospice’s commitment to comfort, dignity and compassion.

Rachel Handler is a writer, filmmaker & actor known for her stint as Peg Leg Doris on AMC’s “Interview With the Vampire” and her award-winning Slamdance films “Committed” and “HOW MUCH AM I WORTH?” Other acting credits include, “Best Foot Forward,” “NCIS: New Orleans,” “New Amsterdam,” and “The Upside.” 

Handler became an amputee after a car accident. She believes deeply in the power of stories to create social change and is passionate about healthcare and human rights. Her awards include the AT&T Underrepresented Filmmaker Award, Best Writer, Best Awareness, and Best Actor in the Disability Film Challenge, and Best International Film in Focus on Ability. She is directing a feature documentary about health insurance. @bionic.brunette

Andre West is a talented artist whose creative journey has grown from drawing cartoon superheroes to creating a diverse collection of expressive characters. His dedication and artistic growth have earned him recognition in the community, including a featured two-month art exhibition at Adriance Public Library in Poughkeepsie, where he was honored for his exceptional talent. Accompanied by a heartfelt story written by his mother, the exhibit celebrated both his artistic ability and inspiring journey.

Though quiet and soft-spoken, Andre communicates powerfully through his artwork, bringing joy to those who admire his creations. His passion shines from his personal art studio and in every work he produces. Andre’s story will also be featured in an upcoming direct mail campaign, reaching thousands of homes and inspiring others to pursue their dreams. In recognition of his remarkable achievements and positive impact, Andre is proud to be honored with the 2026 Dutchess County Executive's Arts Award.

Jonah Sebastian Espinosa is a recent graduate of Beacon High School and has been most involved with the Beacon Players, the school’s drama program. He loves performing and has been involved in several shows for the Beacon Performing Arts Center and Beacon Players' productions. Some roles he’s played include Chip (Beauty and the Beast), Troy (High School Musical Jr.), Jesus (Godspell Jr.), Enjolras (Les Misérables), the Phantom (Phantom of the Opera), Don Quixote (Man of La Mancha), Nathan Detroit (Guys and Dolls), Laurie (Little Women), Jekyll/Hyde (Jekyll & Hyde), and most recently Paul (A Chorus Line). Jonah plans to continue to pursue his passion of the arts through a BFA in Acting at the Carnegie Mellon University School of Drama!