Lorraine Merrihew (Provided photo)

SARANAC LAKE — Saranac Lake Artworks recently announced the hiring of its first employee, Lorraine Merrihew, as a part-time administrator and event manager for the organization.

Merrihew lives in Saranac Lake, has worked in arts management in the past, and is eager to take on the responsibilities of ArtWorks.

“I am honored and excited to accept this special role with Saranac Lake ArtWorks. I look forward to working with the board, artists, and members in creating and promoting art experiences in the Adirondacks,” she said.

“We are delighted to have Lorraine join the organization. She has skills and experience in arts management that will be an asset to us and our members,” said Sandra Hildreth, president of the board and one of the founding members of ArtWorks.

ArtWorks was formed in 2008 by a small group of artists and Pendragon Theatre. They believed by working collaboratively, and doing joint advertising, that they could attract larger numbers of visitors interested in arts and culture to the community and have a greater economic impact.

The idea of branding Saranac Lake as an arts community had started long before, but ArtWorks took on that challenge and expanded it. The 3rd Thursday ArtWalks were already a tradition, and successful Studio Tours and gallery receptions were common events. The Adirondack Plein Air Festival was started in 2009 and has grown tremendously, earning a national reputation among plein air painters and art collectors.

While ArtWorks does not have its own physical location, the organization was incorporated as a 501(c)(3) in 2020 and now manages the ArtWalks and Studio Tours, and conducts other events like professional development workshops, presentations, exhibits and concerts.

To learn more, visit Saranac Lake ArtWorks’ website at saranaclakeartworks.org.