About Bethany

Bethany Arts Community is a not-for-profit organization.

Our Mission

Name: Metal Clay Jewelry for Beginners with Instructor Barbara Kirby
Start: 2019-05-29T19:00:00-04:00
End: 2019-05-29T21:00:00-04:00
Location: Bethany Arts Community

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.

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

Jessica Irons, Board Member

View Board Member Bio’s

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.

VIEW OPPORTUNITIES

Reach Us

We'd love to hear from you.

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40 Somerstown Rd.
Ossining, NY 10562

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+1 (914) 944 - 4ART (4278)

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info@bethanyarts.org

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