Jamestown artist and creator Bill Thomas joins WRFA’s Anthony Merchant in studio to discuss the return of Third Thursday to downtown Jamestown after taking a hiatus in 2019. The two discuss the work that goes into putting on the show, local music and local scenes, the importance of support from your community, continuing to add events beyond music to Third Thursday, the introduction of Industry Nite at Jamestown Skate Products and much more.

The Active Artists Alliance (AAAlliance) will once again present Third Thursday at the Wintergarden Plaza (located on N. Main St. between Third and Fourth Streets) starting Thursday, May 19. The free outdoor concert series, which begins its fifth year, will feature live music from local favorites The Bogarts along with opening act Pine Fever (Buffalo, NY). The concerts typically run between 6 and 9 p.m.

AAAlliance founder and spokesman Bill Thomas says Third Thursday was designed to be a free, all ages community arts event and concert series for the community. He says that a few local AAAlliance members will be bringing their easels and paints out to the plaza and working on their paintings and other creations.

“Any interested local artists or crafty folks should feel free to bring their materials down to the plaza, to work and network with the other artists, or just to show off what you have been doing lately,” Thomas says, adding that for the sake of public relations and the health of all who attend, participating artists are reminded not to use spray paint while showcasing their talents.

Thomas says that as usual, thirsty patrons can also enjoy a beer during the event on the Wine Cellar’s new patio, which will have a perfect view of the bands and artists. He adds that an after party show will take place at Mojo’s with an additional performance by Pine Fever.

Sponsors for the 2016 Third Thursday concert series include Jamestown Renaissance Corporation, Jamestown Community Chamber of Commerce, the BioDome Project, and Jamestown Skate Products.

Listeners can hear more about the Third Thursday Concert Series along with other events planned by the Active Artists Alliance during WRFA’s Wednesday edition of the Local Rush Hour at 4 p.m.

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Bill Thomas from Active Artists Alliance talks with WRFA’s Jason Sample about the 2015 All Decks on Hand art show and auction on Friday Oct. 23, along with the King of the Bowl VII, taking place Saturday, Oct. 24.

Originally airing Friday, May 15. WRFA public affairs director Jason Sample talks with Bill Thomas from the Active Artists Alliance in Jamestown, NY. Thomas discusses the AAAlliances Kickstarter campaign, designed to raise money for several 2015 programs, including Third Thursday concert series and the annual Art Burn.

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One of the several decks available for auction during the Oct. 17 All Decks on Hand exhibit at the 3rd on 3rd Gallery at the Reg Lenna Center for the Arts.

JAMESTOWN – All Decks On Hand 4 will open in the 3rd On 3rd Gallery at Reg Lenna Center for the Arts Friday at 6 p.m. The exhibit will be for one night only as the art will be auctioned off at the end of the evening.  All proceeds benefit the Jamestown Skatepark Fund.

Created and presented by Active Artists Alliance, All Decks On Hand 4 will feature art from more than 20 different visual artists, and will include original hand-painted, drawn and customized skateboard decks, as well as sculptural artworks made from used skateboard decks.

All works will be sold in a live auction at the gallery, immediately following the opening reception.

3rd on 3rd Gallery is supported by a Visual Arts grant from New York State Council on the Arts. It is open 10am until 4pm on week days. It is located in Reg Lenna Center for The Arts at 116 East Third Street in Jamestown, NY. For more information visit reglenna.com or call 716.664.2465.

WRFA will have more on All Decks on Hand auction during this week’s Arts on Fire program, airing Friday at 1 p.m. and featuring an interview with AAAlliance member and founder Bill Thomas.

All Decks on Hand IV

“Art Exchange” will have a free public preview on Saturday  from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. as part of Doors Open Jamestown.  A reception will be held at 6pm that evening.  A $5 admission fee covers gallery costs, food and beverages.

“Art Exchange” is made possible by Active Artists Alliance and Arts Council for Chautauqua County. 3rd On 3rd Gallery is located at the Reg Lenna Civic Center at 116 East Third Street in Jamestown, NY.

The exhibition is free and open to the public from January 22 through February 22.  For more information, call 664-2465, ext. 227.