Our Mission
Our mission is to create a space and environment where the many forms of art can be learned, produced and flourish. Artists of all ages and levels of experience are welcome to explore and create art that the community can experience and be engaged in while enhancing their perception and perspective of the world. BAC aims to inspire sharing, connection and collaboration in a culture designed for the benefit of the local community and beyond.
History in the making
Originally, the property was owned by the Maryknoll Foreign Mission Sisters of St. Dominic who purchased the original structure known as “the Clark House” after the house had been destroyed in a 1924 fire and built the convent on the remaining foundation. The property was referred to as the Bethany Rest House. In 1951, a 3 story dormitory and dining wing was added, as well as a chapel. The structure contained 49 sleeping units, cafeteria, a chapel and office space and served as the retreat home of the convent. The Maryknoll Fathers and Brothers took over the property in 1958. In 1979, the building was designated for the lay Missionary Program, a use adjunct to Maryknoll’s Main Campus. The property was sold to Bethany Arts Community (BAC), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in September 2015.
Antique postcards of Bethany Rest House during occupancy of the Maryknoll Foreign Mission Sisters of St. Dominic.
Founded in May of 2015 by David Lyons, Bethany Arts Community, Inc. is aspiring to be a leading center for arts creation, instruction and appreciation. BAC will offer a wide range of programs and services designed to help the many forms of art be taught, produced, and flourish.
The 44,000 square foot building set on 25 serene acres of mostly wooded land is beneficial in fulfilling BAC’s mission. The plan for the space will enhance the scope of cultural opportunities for the community, In a way that will not disrupt the natural tranquility of the site or the character of the surrounding neighborhood. The need has never been greater for a place artists and arts groups can call home.
Our Facilities
The Bethany Arts Community campus is located in Ossining, NY, a historic Hudson River Valley town just 40 miles north of New York City. Situated on 25 serene and picturesque acres our facilities combine a charming 1920’s period building with a later addition of a 1950’s dormitory and instructional style wing.
Facilities include:
- 44,000 sq ft. facility
- 25 wooded acres to explore nature & inspire
- Former chapel converted into a 99-seat performance venue, with flexible seating and modular stage for multiple configurations (proscenium, thrust, theater in the round, exhibition)
- Up to 27 individual artist studios
- Up to 27 sleeping accommodations – from single dorm rooms to multi-bedroom apartments
- 1,560 sq. ft of rehearsal and performance space outfitted with sprung floor for dance and movement arts
- Multiple teaching/workshop spaces
- Large commercial kitchen
BAC is surrounded by abundant perennial beds, expansive lawns and a fruit orchard. BAC is preserving its historic structure while providing the community with a range of accessible arts programs and creating opportunities that will draw global artists to our region.
We offer children’s and adult programs, a performance venue, multiple galleries, rehearsal spaces, affordable studio spaces, short-term artist residencies, a public sculpture garden and meditation trail.
Board Members and Staff
David Lyons, Founder, Chairman of the Board and Executive Director
Executive Director, David Lyons holds the position on Bethany Arts Community Board of Directors. Mr. Lyons brings a range of practical experience which he will apply in support of BAC’s purposes. For 10 years, he worked in the construction and plumbing industries. For the past 14 years, he has been actively working in a running a family real estate management company. Mr. Lyons’ appreciation for the arts began with influence from his grandfather who himself was a patron and supporter of the many disciplines of artist creation. While this brought him into direct contact with varying art forms, Mr. Lyons has only begun to explore his artistic potential. Being an active supporter and consumer of art as a result, Mr. Lyons’ commitment to BAC is inspired by several personal observances, lack of local art programs in the local community, unavailable quality of programming for children and firsthand knowledge of the detrimental effects of not being able to explore one’s own potential in the arts. Mr. Lyons’ philanthropic activities include support of Yonkers Partners in Education, Spring Community Partners and the Stone Barns Center for Food and Agriculture. Mr. Lyons will serve as the organizations volunteer Executive Director and will spend approximately 120 hours monthly on BAC related activities.
Kimball Lyons Gell, Board Member and Secretary
Laurie Birrittella, Board Member and Treasurer
Brenda Montanile, Board Member
Paul Wallace, Board Member
Dana Teague, Board Member
Work with Us
Bethany is dedicated to providing a supportive, creative and stimulating work environment for staff, interns and volunteers. We encourage all to reach their full potential offering unique opportunities to meaningfully contribute to Bethany’s overall organization. For a list of jobs and volunteer opportunities, Please view opportunities and apply.
Reach Us
We'd love to hear from you.
40 Somerstown Rd.
Ossining, NY 10562
+1 (914) 944 - 4ART (4278)
info@bethanyarts.org
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