The Art League of Long Island (ALLI), a cornerstone of the Long Island arts community, will be celebrating its 70th anniversary in 2025.

Since its founding in 1955, the league has remained steadfast in its mission to provide high-quality visual arts education, foster creativity, and build connections through the arts. This milestone celebrates a legacy of resilience, innovation, and dedication to enriching lives through the visual arts.

From its early beginnings in a YMCA to a small schoolhouse and now its current purpose-built facility constructed in the early 2000s, ALLI has evolved in name and location, adapting to meet the needs of the community it serves. Over the decades, the organization has weathered economic recessions, a global pandemic, and natural disasters, emerging stronger and more committed to its mission.

“Reaching our 70th anniversary is a testament to the incredible support of our members, students, staff, and the Long Island community,” said Marianne Della Croce, executive director of the Art League of Long Island. “It’s an opportunity to reflect on the challenges we’ve overcome, celebrate our accomplishments, and look forward to a bright future of creativity and collaboration.”

Celebratory Events and Initiatives

The Art League of Long Island has an exciting lineup of events planned throughout 2025 to honor the milestone:

• 1970s-Themed Workshops: Dive into the past with workshops inspired by the vibrant art and culture of the 1970s, celebrating the era when ALLI was firmly establishing itself as a creative hub.

• Gala in May: A spectacular gala event that celebrates the artwork of one of the Art League of Long Island’s most tenured instructors, David Peikon, in hopes of bringing together artists, supporters, and community members to promote continued support for the arts.

• Art Therapy Retreat in March: A unique initiative blending art and mindfulness to highlight the therapeutic power of creativity. Participants will have the opportunity to create, stretch, breathe and reflect.

• Backyard Zen Garden Project: In partnership with local Girl Scout troops, ALLI’s backyard will be transformed into a tranquil zen area, fostering a serene space for relaxation and inspiration, a place to unplug from digital devices and become inspired by the world around us.

A Legacy of Excellence

Over its 70 years, the Art League of Long Island has reached countless lives through:

• A wide range of art classes for all ages (from 5-105) and skill levels (from beginners to the masters).

• Specialized programs such as “Arts in Education” for local schools and professional development for educators.

• Exhibitions showcasing local and national artists, providing a platform for diverse voices and perspectives.

• Flexible event spaces that support local businesses and community activities.

As it celebrates this milestone, the Art League of Long Island remains committed to innovation, diversity and growth, ensuring its programs and facilities continue to inspire and empower future generations of artists.

The larger Long Island community is invited to join the celebration and to continue supporting ALLI as they advance their mission to foster creativity and connection through the arts.

The Art League of Long Island is a nonprofit visual arts organization dedicated to enhancing Long Island’s cultural landscape. Founded in 1955, the Art League of Long Island provides a comprehensive calendar of art classes, exhibitions, and events that foster artistic growth and community engagement. For more information, visit www.artleagueli.org.

The Art League of Long Island is at 107 Deer Park Rd., Dix Hills. They can be reached by phone at 631-462-5400 or by going online to [email protected]