BAFFA ART GALLERY

presents

BAFFA Members' Exhibition

SEPTEMBER 2026

Saturdays and Sundays from 12-4pm

Artist Reception: Saturday, September 4th 6-8pm

The Sky's The Limit

"The Sky’s the Limit", a multimedia, members’ exhibition, is a bold celebration of artistic ambition and limitless possibility. Featuring the work of BAFFA Artist Members, this exhibition invites viewers to explore the expansiveness of human imagination and reflects a pursuit of freedom — a reaching beyond the ordinary. It reminds us that creativity, like the sky itself, has no limits.

Judge: Barbie Brady - Multi-Media Artist

About Judge Barbie Brady:

Barbie Brady is a mixed-media artist whose practice encompasses drawing, painting, and sculpture. Her work explores personal narrative through the lenses of feminism, memory, and whimsy, weaving together intimate storytelling with playful and thought-provoking imagery.

Brady's work has been exhibited at multiple museums, including the Carnegie Museum of Art in Pittsburgh, the Cleveland Museum of Art, and the Ackland Art Museum in Chapel Hill, as well as in galleries and exhibitions presented by numerous arts organizations throughout the United States.

She has her MFA from the University of North Carolina but lives and works in Bellport NY. You can check out her work on her website at barbie5x5.com.

What does the BAFFA Art Gallery mean to you?

BAFFA Art Gallery is a beautiful, historic place to show artwork. There is plenty of light and the rooms are quaint and charming.

As a judge for this exhibition, what were you thoughts when chosen as a judge?

I am honored to be chosen as a judge and look forward to seeing the work and talent of these artists.

What are you most looking forward to most about judging this exhibition?

I'm looking most forward to assessing each artwork on its individual merits, in comparison and in contrast to the other work. It's a unique challenge to judge art and I'm very excited to see what the artists bring.

What about the local art community makes you happy?

The act of creating art is generally a solitary one. Opportunities to gather and connect with other artists is not only a valuable experience but it enriches each artists to have community support while fostering friendship.

What is your experience as an artist and / or judge?

I've been making art for over 40 years. I have an MFA and used to teach at UNC-Chapel Hill. Everywhere I have lived; Pittsburgh, Chapel Hill, Los Angeles and now Long Island, I have sot out a local arts community to join and know first hand how important and fulfilling it is to have a community of artists to seek feedback and critique. Teaching prepares you well for judging art and making aesthetic value assessments. I hope to approach each piece and judge it fairly on technical skill, composition, emotional impact, and originality.

How did you first get involved in the local Long Island art community?

I moved to Long Island 5 years ago the first thing I did was seek out the local art associations. I'm currently a member of a handful of organizations and frequently submit work for local shows, as well as finding opportunities to have solo exhibits and join art fairs. Long Island has a wide variety of opportunities to show art and make new friends.

What makes the Long Island art community different from other art communities?

Long Island has a wide variety of inexpensive, amateur art associations. There are no barriers to entry and usually no official assessment to get in. This allows all artists to simply sign up and become a member, no matter where you are at in your own personal journey, you can find support.

Is there something about the BAFFA Art Gallery that you absolutely love?

Obviously the space is incredible and historic. While the people at BAFFA are truly invested in professional exhibitions at the highest level of execution.

For fairness and transparency, judging is based on five categories:

Technicality, Creativity/Originality, Concept/Execution, Composition, & Visual Impact/Emotional Response