When it comes to growing a local music scene, a lack of venues and a lack of promotion is the problem, say Saugerties natives Ayla Rector and Ian Flanigan.

“Equine: A Group Exhibition of Art Celebrating the Horse,” opened at The Emerge Gallery and Art Space in Saugerties on September 2 and will show until October 2.

With near-perfect weather for a drive around the countryside, the 15th annual Saugerties Artists’ Studio Tour drew hundreds of visitors last weekend.

Saugerties’ gallery scene is seeking to transform the town into a must-visit destination for art aficionados. Four outstanding shows this month are clustered within two blocks. Paintings, drawings, prints and sculptures have overflowed the gallery walls and are showing up in storefront windows and inside restaurants.

This annual, self-guided tour is free and open to the public.  The artists on the tour represent a wide range

Sunday, May 21: See work by local artists on equine canvases before they hit the streets.

‘We have a major problem, and it’s important that we bring the families and those suffering out of the shadows and let them know there is hope.’

This year, the town is throwing itself into International Sculpture Day— not just on the official day of April 24, but all month.