DIRECTOR’S CORNER

November 2026 – A Message from Our New Executive Director

Frank A. Lombardi
Executive Director | Art League of Long Island

Dear Members, Artists, Supporters, and Friends of the Art League of Long Island,

It is with great enthusiasm, humility, and a profound sense of responsibility that I introduce myself as the new Executive Director of the Art League of Long Island. I am honored to join an organization with such a rich history of artistic excellence, creative expression, and service to our community.

For decades, the Art League of Long Island has been a place where creativity flourishes, artistic talents are discovered, and people of all ages and backgrounds come together through the transformative power of art. As we look toward the future, my commitment is to honor this remarkable legacy while building upon it with renewed energy, innovation, and purpose.

My vision is simple yet ambitious: to make the Art League of Long Island a place where art truly is for everyone.

Throughout my professional career, I have had the privilege of leading organizations, developing programs, and advancing initiatives that strengthen communities and improve lives. Those experiences have reinforced my belief that successful organizations are built upon strong relationships, responsible stewardship, collaboration, and a shared commitment to making a meaningful difference.

As I begin this new chapter, my priorities will focus on strengthening our existing programs, expanding community partnerships, enhancing the experience of our members and students, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the Art League.

Central to this vision is Art for All, an emerging community impact movement designed to extend the reach of the Art League beyond traditional arts education and exhibitions. Through this initiative, we envision developing meaningful programs that use artistic expression to foster resilience, confidence, connection, and personal growth among populations that may face barriers to participation.

Among our planned initiatives is Beyond the Battlefield: The Art of Resilience, a program designed to provide veterans with opportunities for creative expression, connection, and personal healing. We also envision expanding access to the arts for individuals with developmental disabilities and children who have experienced abuse or trauma.

These initiatives reflect a broader philosophy: Art is more than something we create. It is something that can bring us together, give us a voice, inspire hope, and transform lives.

Equally important is our commitment to the artists, instructors, members, students, volunteers, and supporters who have made the Art League what it is today. We will continue to celebrate artistic excellence, encourage emerging talent, embrace new forms of creative expression, and cultivate an environment where tradition and innovation thrive together.

I believe the next chapter of the Art League of Long Island must be defined by accessibility, creativity, collaboration, accountability, and measurable community impact. We have an extraordinary opportunity to strengthen our role not only as a center for artistic education and appreciation, but also as a vital cultural and community resource throughout Long Island.

None of this can be accomplished alone. Our success will depend upon the collective talents, ideas, generosity, and dedication of our members, staff, instructors, Board of Directors, community partners, and supporters. I look forward to listening, learning, building relationships, and working alongside each of you as we shape our future together.

As we move forward, I invite you to become an active part of this exciting new chapter. Whether you are a lifelong artist, a first-time student, a dedicated supporter, or someone who has never considered participating in the arts, there is a place for you at the Art League of Long Island.

Together, we will honor our past, embrace our future, and build an Art League that inspires creativity, strengthens our community, and makes art accessible to all.

Thank you for the warm welcome and for the opportunity to serve this remarkable organization. I am excited about what lies ahead and confident that our greatest achievements are still to come.

With sincere appreciation and enthusiasm,

Frank A. Lombardi
Executive Director
Art League of Long Island

Art for All — Creating Art. Building Connections. Transforming Lives.

 

August 2026

Dear Friends,

As summer begins to wind down, August brings with it a renewed sense of anticipation at the Art League of Long Island. While many of us are still finding time to enjoy the season, we are also looking ahead to an exciting fall filled with opportunities to learn, create, and connect.

Our fall classes and workshops are now open for registration, offering something for artists at every stage of their creative journey. Whether you’re returning to a favorite medium or trying something entirely new, our exceptional instructors and welcoming community are ready to inspire you. On tap this fall are new offerings in textile arts, youth programs, and additional times for your favorites which are getting more full!

This fall also marks another exciting chapter for our Certificate of Creative Practice program. Designed for artists seeking a deeper commitment to their work, the two-year program combines mentorship, professional development, and a supportive cohort experience, culminating in a gallery exhibition. If you’re looking to elevate your artistic practice, I encourage you to explore this unique opportunity or share it with an artist who may benefit from the experience.

We are also accepting applications for our Resident Artist Program, which provides dedicated studio space, professional support, and an environment that fosters artistic growth and collaboration. Our resident artists are an important part of the creative energy that makes the Art League such a vibrant place, and we look forward to welcoming a new group of talented artists into the program.

Join us for our Open House on Friday, August 8, where you can tour our studios, meet instructors, explore our programs, and discover all that the Art League has to offer. While you’re here, be sure to visit our Instructors’ Exhibition, showcasing the remarkable work of the talented artists who teach throughout the year. The exhibition offers a unique opportunity to see the breadth of artistic excellence represented by our faculty and perhaps find inspiration for your next class or workshop.

Finally, we are getting more excited about our Love, Picasso exhibition and fundraiser. Every submitted work will be included in the exhibition, making this a wonderful opportunity for artists of all levels to participate and support the Art League. Even better, your entry fee includes admission to our Love, Picasso Fundraiser Reception, an evening celebrating creativity, community, and the artists who make the Art League so special. We encourage you to submit your artwork and join us for one of our favorite events of the year.

Thank you for being an important part of the Art League family. Your enthusiasm, creativity, and support make this organization the thriving artistic community it is today.

I look forward to seeing you this fall and sharing another inspiring season of creativity together.

Sincerely,

Marianne Della Croce

Executive Director