Cunneen-Hackett Arts Center

- 9 Vassar St, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601

For New Yorkers seeking a rich cultural experience beyond the city limits, a short trip up the Hudson Valley leads to the historic city of Poughkeepsie, home to a truly exceptional destination: the Cunneen-Hackett Arts Center. More than just an art gallery, this institution is a vibrant cultural hub housed within two stunning Victorian-era buildings. These structures, dating back to the late 1880s, offer a journey back in time even as they serve as a dynamic venue for contemporary art and live performances. The center’s mission is to provide a platform for both professional and amateur artists to showcase their talents, making it a crucial part of the Hudson Valley’s artistic ecosystem.

The Cunneen-Hackett Arts Center’s charm lies in its unique blend of historical preservation and modern artistic expression. The buildings themselves, with their grand parlors and intricate architecture, are works of art. The Victorian-age Italianate design, including detailed facades and elegant interiors, creates a majestic backdrop for the ever-changing array of exhibitions and events. This dual nature—being both a historic landmark and a living arts space—is a core part of its appeal. As one visitor noted, simply walking through its halls with its art and artifacts offers a "quick trip back in time."

The center is a true multi-disciplinary arts venue. It hosts a wide range of live performances, including music, dance, and dramatic theater, in its 200-seat VBI Theatre. This creates a lively and bustling atmosphere, with something always happening. From professional touring acts to local community productions, the stage is a showcase for a wealth of talent. For example, a recent performance of "Les Miserables" was hailed as an "amazing experience" that demonstrated "so much talent." This variety of programming ensures that every visit can offer a new and exciting experience, whether you are an art enthusiast, a theater lover, or a music aficionado.

Beyond the performing arts, the center's commitment to visual arts is evident in its three distinct art galleries: the Victorian Gallery, the Reception Gallery, and the Hancock Gallery. These spaces feature rotating exhibitions, providing a constant stream of new works from local, regional, and national artists. This allows the center to be a vital platform for emerging and established artists alike, keeping the displays fresh and engaging for repeat visitors. The exhibitions are carefully curated to provide a diverse array of visual art, from paintings and sculptures to photography and mixed media.

What truly sets the Cunneen-Hackett Arts Center apart is its role as a community-centric space. It is not an imposing or inaccessible institution; rather, it's a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone. The center prides itself on being family-friendly, good for kids, and a welcoming space for the LGBTQ+ community, including being a transgender safe space. This deliberate focus on inclusivity creates a warm, supportive, and safe environment for all visitors and artists. It ensures that the arts are not just a luxury for a select few but a resource for the entire community.

The Cunneen-Hackett Arts Center is conveniently located at 9 Vassar St, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601, USA. Its prime location in downtown Poughkeepsie makes it an accessible destination for those living in or visiting the Hudson Valley region. The city of Poughkeepsie is a major hub, easily reachable from New York City via the Metro-North Railroad, making the arts center a perfect day trip for city dwellers.

The center has made significant efforts to be accessible to all members of the community. It provides a wheelchair-accessible car park, ensuring convenient and stress-free access for visitors with mobility needs. The main entrances are also wheelchair-accessible, and the building features gender-neutral toilets, as well as wheelchair-accessible toilets. These amenities reflect the center's commitment to creating a comfortable and welcoming environment for everyone, a key consideration that sets it apart.

• Guided Tours: The center offers guided tours for those who wish to delve deeper into the history and architecture of the two historic buildings and the art and artifacts within. These tours are available upon request and provide a fascinating look at the center’s rich past.
• Venue Rentals: With its beautiful and historic spaces, including the VBI Theatre and the Grand Parlor, the Cunneen-Hackett Arts Center is available for rent for special events, including weddings, lectures, and corporate gatherings.
• Art Gallery Exhibitions: The center hosts rotating art exhibitions in its three galleries, showcasing the work of a wide range of artists in various mediums.
• Live Performances: The venue hosts a full calendar of live performances, including music, dance, and theater, in its dedicated theater and other performance spaces.
• Community-Focused Events: The center actively participates in and hosts community events, such as art festivals and open studios, often with free admission to encourage public participation.

• Historic Landmark Buildings: The center is housed in two preserved Victorian-era buildings, offering a unique and beautiful setting for all events and exhibitions.
• Live Performances: A consistent highlight is the variety and quality of live performances, which draw audiences for drama, music, and dance.
• Rotating Art Exhibitions: The three distinct galleries ensure there is always something new to see, featuring a diverse collection of artists and mediums.
• Full Accessibility: The center is committed to being fully accessible with a wheelchair-accessible car park, entrance, and restrooms, as well as amenities like gender-neutral toilets.
• Inclusive Environment: The center is known for being family-friendly, LGBTQ+ friendly, and a transgender safe space, making it a welcoming place for everyone.
• Venue Diversity: With a theater, three galleries, a dance studio, and a grand parlor, the center can host a wide range of events and functions.

Address: 9 Vassar St, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601, USA

Phone: (845) 486-4571

For the most current information on events, exhibition schedules, and ticket availability, it is recommended to contact the center directly or visit their official website.

For New Yorkers, a visit to the Cunneen-Hackett Arts Center is more than just a trip to an art gallery; it's a worthwhile escape into a different world. It provides a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in a rich tapestry of history, visual art, and live performance, all under one roof. Unlike many city galleries that can feel sterile or intimidating, this center's historic charm and community-first approach make it feel incredibly welcoming and personal. The fact that it is a space where you can experience a theatrical masterpiece like "Les Miserables" one day and a contemporary art exhibition the next speaks to its versatility and value.

The center's commitment to accessibility and inclusivity, from its wheelchair-accessible facilities to its designation as an LGBTQ+ safe space, makes it an exemplary model of a modern cultural institution. It is a place where every New Yorker, regardless of their background or identity, can feel safe and inspired. Whether you're a family looking for a fun and educational outing, an individual seeking artistic inspiration, or simply someone who appreciates beautiful architecture and creative expression, the Cunneen-Hackett Arts Center is a destination that truly delivers, making the journey from the city well worth the effort.

Cunneen-Hackett Arts Center

9 Vassar St, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601, USA