CALLICOON — Local businesses bustled as the streets of Callicoon came alive with those enjoying the Callicoon Art Walk on Saturday, October 11. The event, which drew hundreds of attendees, was a celebration of art, music, and food, as folks of all ages and walks of life strolled down the street enjoying the sounds of guitars and the wafting smells of fresh baked goods. Dogs frollicked as couples and families perused local thrift shops, restaurants, and art galleries. 

Stephanie Mano from Salt Lake City and Eric Greffrath from Damascus, Pa enjoyed a peaceful moment sitting on a bench and basking in the sun amidst the action on Lower Main Street. “His mom is selling tickets for the Auxiliary,” said Mano, who took the opportunity to feed Greffrath a croissant. Greffrath said he volunteers at Grover M. Hermann Hospital Auxiliary, and across the street, his mother Vicky Greffrath was selling raffle tickets to raise money for the replacement of the hospital’s CT scanner. Vicky, who made a handcrafted afghan blanket as one of the raffle prizes, sat alongside Auxiliary board member Peggy Richardson and District 5 Legislator Cat Scott, who praised the hospital’s efforts: “Their work is really important to this side of the county,” Scott said.

As musicians danced and played onstage behind him, Jeffersonville resident John Bonafede sat quietly creating a pencil illustration of the shops on Lower Main Street. He was selling copies of his three-part graphic novel series called “Da Agony of Da Feet.” Sitting next to him was painter Robert Bradley, who was showing work inside the newly refurbished Callicoon Train Depot. The Depot was fully furnished with several colorful paintings on every wall and buzzed with the energy of local artists connecting with each other.

Artist Katiebell Bulmer sat at a booth outside the Callicoon Pantry painting a series of small works. When asked why she makes her art, she said, “I just had this lovely conversation with this group of women who came by and loved my art, and they said ‘I just want to live inside those spaces’ and I said ‘that’s exactly why I created it.’” Bulmer says her work champions radical self love and “creates a safe space to be completely who you are.” 

After playing an instrumental duet on the Train Depot stage, guitarist Craig Graham shared his inspiration for creating: “Music is life, right? When that moment is right and the music is flowing, that’s the answer right there.” His duet partner was Drummer Obi Kaye, who said, “I have loved drums ever since I was a kid so I’ve been playing ever since I was a kid.”

Down the street the Weigh Station stage featured vibraphonist and Hankins resident Matt Hoffman, who improvised a solo performance of compositions and jazz standards. Hoffman, who grew up in Callicoon, said his music is inspired by “a little bit of everything,” including improvisation and the music he listens to. When asked what distinguishes improvisation from composition, Hoffman said, “Nothing.” 

The Callicoon Art Walk drew throngs of people to downtown Callicoon for a memorable fall afternoon which featured live music on several stages, a variety of delicious food from local restaurants, and an eclectic collection of artwork that celebrated the creative depth of Sullivan County’s talent.