In response to the outcry some months back, Islip Town has arrived at some kind of plan to keep the Islip Art Museum open:
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: supervisorsoffice <supervisorsoffice@townofislip-ny.gov>
Date: Tue, Jan 19, 2010 at 10:54 AM
Subject: Islip Art Museum
To:
Dear Islip Art Museum Patron:
First of all, let me assure you – the Islip Town Art Museum is not closing. As a lifelong Islip resident and art patron, I recognize that our museum is invaluable to artists in the Tri-State area and around the world, and that because of this, the museum greatly contributes to our local economy and enhances our local culture. We will not lose this gem on my watch and you can count on that.That said, the national economic climate has forced us to make many difficult decisions. But, fortunately, it has also allowed us to think outside of the box when it comes to funding options and how to stretch the dollars we have. Right now, the Town is working on finalizing an agreement with Dowling College’s Art Department which would enable the College to assume operations of the museum. This scenario is a great fit because under the direction of the College’s Art Department, the museum will have a great network of artists to draw from as well as better funding options. Finally, this move will save taxpayers money – which is my top priority as Supervisor of the Town of Islip.
I look forward to many more years of exhibitions, articles and art world chatter.
Regards,
Phil Nolan
Supervisor, Islip Town
