Summary
Organization name
Rochester Folk Art Guild
Tax id (EIN)
16-6069240
Categories
Arts & Culture
Address
1445 Upper Hill RoadMiddlesex, NY 14507
Phone
5855543539
Our Story
The Rochester Folk Art Guild was founded in 1957 by the visionary Louise March (1900–1987) and a group of like-minded individuals who dreamed of creating a community where traditional craftsmanship could foster a more conscious, creative, and responsible way of life. This vision laid the framework for a vibrant and unique collective grounded in craftsmanship and communal living. In 1967, the Guild relocated to the scenic East Hill Farm in Middlesex, NY, where our commitment to sustainability and our deep connection to the land have flourished.
Spanning over 350 acres, our picturesque home includes multiple craft workshops, artist housing, two orchards, preserved farmland, and undisturbed forest. The buildings, crafted and designed by Guild members over the decades, feature a blend of architectural styles from around the world, harmonizing with the natural surroundings of our farm. We are dedicated to maintaining and preserving this distinctive campus, ensuring they continue to serve as a testament to our values for future generations.
At the heart of our mission is the belief in providing support and nourishment to those seeking a more conscious, creative, and responsible way of living. We integrate awareness into our practical work, emphasizing the art of working with our hands and living in harmony with nature. Our craft studios and farm serve as dynamic spaces where traditional arts and methods are actively practiced and preserved. Workshops in pottery, woodworking, weaving, natural fiber arts, farming, and orchard management connect participants with time-honored techniques and materials.
Our extended study programs and retreat center offer deeper immersion in both craft and community life, inviting individuals and groups to explore and contribute to our vibrant environment. Our gallery, nestled within our scenic campus, showcases finely crafted functional art, reflecting our dedication to quality, tradition, and mindful living.
Our story is not just about a place but about the people who bring it to life—dedicated artisans, passionate apprentices, and a community committed to shared values. As we continue to grow and evolve, we remain deeply rooted in the values set forth by our founder. We strive to be a place where creativity, craftsmanship, and community converge, ensuring that the Rochester Folk Art Guild remains a beacon of tradition and innovation for future generations.
Our Future and Vision
At the Rochester Folk Art Guild, we envision a vibrant, sustainable haven where artists and makers can deeply engage with their creative potential through traditional craftsmanship. In our fast-paced modern world, it is rare to find a place dedicated to slowing down and focusing intensely on one's work. Our goal is to build a financially and environmentally sustainable community that not only fosters personal and communal growth but also offers a sanctuary for those seeking a more meaningful connection with their craft and their surroundings.
Looking ahead, we aim to enhance our efforts in sustainability and education. Your support will be crucial in maintaining our unique campus, including our historic buildings and the scenic grounds of East Hill Farm. This preservation work ensures that our space remains a nurturing environment where individuals of all ages and backgrounds can come together to explore, create, and grow.
Donations will help us sustain and expand our diverse programs, from apprenticeships in traditional crafts to immersive summer internships in organic farming and sustainable practices. Contributions will also support our artist residencies and workshops, enabling us to attract and host artists from around the world and offer enriching experiences to our community.
By investing in our future, you will help sustain our artist community, preserve our historic campus, and support our mission of creativity, craftsmanship, and education. Your generosity will ensure that the knowledge and experiences gained here continue to inspire and benefit future generations.
Organization Data
Middlesex, NY 14507