Shelter Island Arts center opens, welcoming all

Everyone carries a creative side. That’s the belief that artist June Shatken lives by. It’s one that has prompted her commitment to spreading artistic passion throughout the Island, and, as of early July, has culminated in the grand opening of the Shelter Island Arts Center.

Located at 23 North Ferry Road, SIAC, as it’s more familiarly known, is rounding its fourth week of operation this season. However, the support and participation from the community has already been overwhelming, she said.

“Our tagline is inspiring creativity and community… and that’s what we’re here for,” Ms. Shatken said, holding a busy schedule booked to the brim with unique classes and events. Offerings include plein air painting, acrylics and collaging, and drawing and sketching, to name just a few.

Taught by four of five SIAC board members, each brings their own level of expertise and intellect to share with an eager crowd.

Classes are offered throughout the week, as advertised on the monthly schedule, and average about 5 to 6 participants. Each opens with a brief history on the media of the day, including where they developed and notable artists that pioneered them. Ms. Shatken, however, urges participation beyond classtime, stating that the studio is open for public use Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Everyone is encouraged to come, no matter their level or experience, and try their hand in the media of their choosing.

“The purpose of these classes,” board member Catherine Corry said, “is to try new art forms that trigger your fear of not being perfect. But if you push through that, it’s so delightful. It unlocks different parts of your brain.”

As materials are provided free of charge, Ms. Corry referenced SIAC as a place of supportive experimentation. Supplies for artistic media, such as oil and acrylic paints, are often costly endeavors. First-time artists are typically unwilling to make the purchase until they know how they can perform.

Therefore, the studio functions as a place of free practice, allowing onlookers to determine afterwards whether an investement is worthwhile. Paints, canvases, brushes, and other supplies are primarily purchased through the board members, yet donations are highly welcomed and encouraged. “Artists are very clever in use,” said Ms. Shatken, “they know how to reuse old things.”

Furthermore, Blick, an online artist supplies store, has since made a generous contribution to SIAC in light of their grand opening. Not only has this been highly impactful, but it additionally highlights the success that SIAC is already enjoying.

Ms. Shatken had previously taught watercolor classes on the Island for 8 to 9 years, starting first at the Senior Center and later moving to the History Museum. January of 2025 saw a new beginning, however, when she and four board members, including Ms. Corry, organized the Shelter Island Arts Center as a nonprofit.

Built in 1874, the building at 23 North Ferry Road would prove to be the perfect spot to locate a center. Having previously been restaurants such as 18 Bay and Planet Bliss,  even once functioning as a grocery store, the owner was “very open-minded” in making the location affordable. Soon, the team was able to “get in gear and develop these classes,” opening the doors by early July.

When asked what inspired her to start this long, challenging journey, Shatken gave credit to two things: her sailboat and Julia Cameron’s self-help book “The Artist’s Way.” Having previously lived in New Jersey, she and her husband would embark on two-week cruises that included frequent pitstops to Shelter Island. Curious about full-time Island life, the couple eventually decided to make the move.

“The thing that really drew me here was the huge number of creative people on the Island in every art form,” Ms. Shatken explained. “There’s a lot of creative energy here that can be harnessed.” Those thoughts were crystalized after reading Ms. Cameron’s book, advertised as a manual to unlocking late-age creativity.

“Life intervenes. Watching people sort of come back to that creative side is really fulfilling to see,” Ms. Corry added. “The common feedback has been ‘It’s about time,’” both women stated, referencing the response to SIAC from Shelter Island. For more information on classes and hours, visit the Shelter Island Arts Center website at shelterislandartscenter.org.

Additionally, be sure to follow their Instagram for evolving updates and work displays @shelterislandartscenter. As of now, SIAC plans to operate year-round, and hopes to introduce night classes in the near future.