New Rochelle, NY - An antique car show, a chance to visit the studio of internationally acclaimed pop artist Charles Fazzino, a free performance by the Dance Theatre of Harlem Ensemble, an opportunity to contribute to the creation of piece of public art… these are just a few of the pleasures of this year’s “ArtsFest” in New Rochelle, Saturday and Sunday, September 24th and 25th, from 12:30 to 5:30 pm each day.

Organized by the New Rochelle Council on the Arts, ArtsFest highlights the variety of arts and arts venues in New Rochelle, with art exhibits, programs and activities that give both visitors and residents alike a window into the city’s rich cultural and artistic diversity. The weekend-long celebration will include art installations, tours of artist’s studios, live music, family-friendly crafts, great food, exciting performances, and two free “Culture Trolleys” providing “hop on – hop off” transportation to the activities taking place in public and private cultural institutions throughout the city.

“The arts are essential to healthy communities,” says Judith Weber, President of NRCA. “The arts bring people together and spark dialogue, which generates community spirit. ArtsFest is all about community.” That’s why this year ArtsFest will also include a charitable event, “Empty Bowls for Hope,” at transForm Showroom and Gallery on Saturday, September 24th from 12:30 to 4:30 pm:  Guests will purchase a bowl made by a local artist and fill it with soup donated by local restaurants; all proceeds will benefit HOPE Community Services. “It’s a way to remind everybody that there are always empty bowls in the world,” says Weber.

Among the new twists this year, several sites are offering  participatory experiences, like creating sand art at the Empty Hand Zen Center and being part of a collaborative art project at the studio of internationally acclaimed pop artist Charles Fazzino. A “Glee” workshop and a tutorial entitled “You, Too, Can Sing Opera” offer to help aspiring vocalists sharpen their skills, while free acting and dancing classes may inspire future performers.

This year ArtsFest is being sponsored by 42 Club House Grill and New Rochelle Chevrolet, with additional support from the City of New Rochelle, The College of New Rochelle, Iona College, Museum Editions Ltd,  transForm Showroom and Gallery as well as the Downtown Business Improvement District, WVOX, Alvin & Friends restaurant,  and the Daily New Rochelle. NRCA’s programs are made possible, in part, by ArtsWestchester with funds from Westchester County Government.

For a complete calendar of all venues and events visit www.newrochellearts.org.