On Thursday evening, July 23rd — our 53rd birthday — we welcomed almost 200 guests to the home of our Board member Melissa Slotnick and her husband Joe, high in the Austerlitz hills.

After parking, guests were whisked all the way up the mountain to Pura Vida, to take in the breathtaking vista stretching all the way to the Catskills and, while sipping spritzes, watch Joe Mangrum create a large-scale painting with colored sand.

When the time came to leave, guests were ferried (by golfcart) zback to the house and tent, where fanciful cocktails and delectable appetizers were served. Host Melissa Slotnick welcomed everyone with a few words about Millay Arts and the local community. Monika Burczyk, Executive Director introduced two writing alumni: Ani Gjika and Aamina Khan who spoke about their time in residence and the effect this transformational time had on their work and process. Board President Whitney Lawson rounded out the evening after The Energy band performed, thanking all for coming.

To view selected photos of the event, click HERE.

We are so thankful to all who made the night special: those who attended, those who contributed, our dedicated Board and staff, and of course, our alumni and Artists-in-Residence.

See you in Summer 2028!