& Huber, LLP.

It is particularly appropriate that we mark the beginning of the new millennium with an exhibition of work by Western New York artists for, past and present, they have been and are the fabric and substance of cultural life in this region. For more than twenty years now, the Albright-Knox Art Gallery has celebrated the efforts of the artists who reside in the eight counties of Western New York through this invitational exhibition, In Western New York. This effort underscores our commitment to the artists of the area.
    In Western New York gives the Gallery's curators an opportunity to present a selection that is both in depth and focused. As their inaugural effort, Curator Douglas Dreishpoon and Assistant Curator Claire Schneider considered the work of more than 120 artists, reviewing more than 1,500 slides of work in all media, from painting to video. Over the course of several weeks, Dr. Dreishpoon and Ms. Schneider visited studios from Jamestown to Niagara Falls, meeting and talking with artists and having the pleasure of seeing the works in person. What is presented here is the result of their thoughtful and enthusiastic consideration: ten artists whose work, the Gallery believes, represents the exhilarating level of accomplishment of the artists of Western New York. I am grateful to both curators for embracing the Gallery's commitment to showcasing this work.
    The Gallery extends its deepest appreciation to the law firm of Phillips, Lytle, Hitchcock, Blaine & Huber for their generous sponsorship of this exhibition. As well, we thank the New York State Council on the Arts for ongoing support of the Gallery's exhibition programs. And finally, we recognize all of the artists of Western New York who responded to our call for submissions with their customary keen interest. We continue to be expanded by our contact with them and their fine work.

Douglas G. Schultz
Director
Albright-Knox Art Gallery