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Halloween Art

Community, Art, Children, a great combination.

Yesterday I was photographing a client in Rye, New York. I stopped in the town for a hot chocolate as it was a very cold day for October.

I was amazed to see all the great artwork done by the children that live in the area. Each painting was the same size and it was on the outside of all the store windows. Children could draw and paint as they please.

Good to see the town promoting art and especially the budding artists while nurturing community spirit.

#RYE

Here are some examples.

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Halloween in the Hamptons

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It's almost that spooky time of the year again! Halloween is quickly approaching and the festivities are already beginning! There are so many things to do around the Hamptons this Halloween. If your kids are already eager to break out their costumes and have some fun, there is good news: they don't have to wait until the 31st to get into the Halloween spirit! Listed below are some great local events for the whole family to enjoy. So break out your most creative costumes and get ready for your best Halloween yet!

Bridgehampton Lions Club's Annual Pumpkin Carving Contest: On Monday, October 29th at the Bridgehampton Community House, the Bridgehampton Lion's Club will be having their annual pumpkin carving contest. Carve your best pumpkin masterpiece and you may receive a prize ranging from $20-$150. Don't forget to grab some delicious cider and donuts and stay for the puppet show!

Southampton Chamber of Commerce Annual 'Rag-A-Muffin' Halloween Parade: Join the fun on October 25th during the Southampton Chamber of Commerce's Annual 'Rag-A-Muffin' Halloween Parade for children ages nine and under. Don your best costume and arrive at 1 pm at Lake Agawam Park on Jobs Lane to begin the parade! A large turnout is expected. There will be a contest for best costume, the winner receiving a prize! After the parade, children and parents are invited to participate in the Southampton Pumpkin Trail, in which local merchants will give out treats at their shops on Main Street and Jobs Lane. Participating stores will have a special paper pumpkin in their windows. In the event of rain, the activities will be held at Rogers Memorial Library in the Morris Meeting Room at 91 Coopers Farm Road. Stop by our Southampton gallery at 77 Jobs Lane during the Pumpkin Trail event for a special treat!

Quogue Enchanted Forest Trail: On October 17, 11am-2pm, and October 25th, 12pm-3pm, the Quogue Wildlife Refuge at 3 Old Country Road will be hosting an enchanted forest trail. Children two to seven years in age and parents are welcome to meet whimsical and educational characters while walking the refuge's forest trails with a guide. This event will be full of games and activities. Dress up with your family and attend this one-of-a-kind experience. Reservations are required, so call Kimberly Stever at 631-653-4771 to reserve a spot. Reservations are $10 per person.

Mulford Farm's Festival of Frights: Grimm Scary Tales at Haunted Milford Farm: Mulford farm in Easthampton promises your family the spookiest festival of the season. Walk through the 'haunted' farm for the cemetery tour on October 27th at 6 pm, hosted by the Easthampton Historical Society. Tickets are $10 per family, or $5 for adults and $2 for children. Come and see some fantastic costumes and be prepared for an educational yet terrifically creepy experience!

Haunted Path and Ghoulish Games at the Southampton Youth Center: On October 30th, 7pm-10pm, the Southampton Youth Center (1370A Majors Path, Southampton) will be hosting the perfect gathering for children in grades six and up. Navigate through their spooky walk then compete in some festive and fun activities such as a mummy race, zombie basketball, and ghost dodgeball! At only 5$ per entry, this event is great for the active family who doesn't mind a bit of a scare!

Enjoy Halloween all month long with your family and make this October the best yet! Lucille Khornak Gallery wishes your entire family a safe, spooky and memorable Halloween!

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Fall Activities for the Family

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Though summer has come to an end and long days at the beach may now be behind us, there are still many opportunities for festive family fun on Long Island. The changing of the seasons brings us colorful leaves to play in, pumpkins to pick, cider to drink and hay bales to climb, evoking a sense of wonder and excitement in children and adults alike. The cool autumn weather and approaching holidays always seems to bring families even closer together. Make this season special by participating in some of the family-friendly fall activities listed below! Each activity is simple, stress-free and great for creating new memories together – perfect for the kids and kids-at-heart!

Go Apple Picking Together: The chilly weather marks the beginning of the fall harvest, meaning the apples are ripe and ready to be picked off the trees! There are many local, family-owned orchards on Long Island to choose from, such as 7 Ponds Orchard in Watermill and Harbes Family Farm in Mattituck. Engage the kids by playing games while picking. See who can find the largest apple and award the winner with a small prize. At the end of the day, make caramel apples together using a simple at-home kit from your local grocery store.

Attend Local Farmer's Markets: Going to the farmer's market is not only a great way to buy incredibly fresh produce while supporting local farmers, it's a lot of fun! Take the kids to your local farmer's market and let them help you select some crisp fall fruits and vegetables. This new tradition can even get them excited about healthy eating. The Southampton Chamber of Commerce Farmer's Market will be open Sundays throughout the month of October, from 9am-2pm. The Market is located on the east side grounds of the Southampton Arts Center at 25 Jobs Lane. Over 25 vendors will be featured selling farm-fresh produce, baked goods, jams, spices, teas, gluten-free and vegan products, wine from local vineyards, natural skincare products, soaps, artisan jewelry, natural pet treats and more! While you're in town, stop by our Southampton Gallery right down the street and say hi!

Make Your Own Apple Cider: There's nothing better than a warm cup of cider on a cool autumn day. Follow this easy, kid-friendly recipe to make your own hot cider at home.

Book a Family Photo Session: Fall is the perfect season to book your family photo session. The scenery is beautiful and makes for incredible pictures! A photo session with Lucille is an experience the whole family will enjoy and remember forever. Have one- of-a-kind holiday cards made to send to all your loved ones this year – it's a special gesture that friends and family will cherish!

Go Pumpkin Picking: Make a day out of it and attend a local farm with many other attractions. Hank's Pumpkintown in Watermill offers corn mazes, wagon rides, pedal cart races, animals, games, education stations and more. As a safer and less messy alternative to pumpkin carving, paint your pumpkins with the kids and put them out on display!

Homemade Halloween Costumes and Decorations: Spend an afternoon making festive arts and crafts with the kids to use as decorations around your home. Let them unleash their creativity by putting together their own Halloween costumes this year.

Whatever you decide to do with your family this season, make sure you have as much fun as possible together. With all the festive activities that this time of year has to offer, you may just fall in love with autumn!

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Express Yourself to Better Health!

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Do you make time for creative self-expression? In today's world, busy work schedules, daily obligations and the general hustle and bustle of the everyday leave most of us unable to find time to engage in the creative activities we love. Though many can recognize the great impact of self- expression throughout human history and the influence of the arts on our culture, not enough find time to participate themselves. Recently, however, scientists are discovering the many health benefits of creative self-expression, which includes writing, painting, dance, photography, drawing, playing music, ceramics, sculpture and anything in between. Read on and you may decide to join the many individuals who are now making time in their schedules for some fun, artistic endeavors.

In an article published by the American Journal of Public Health in 2010, entitled The Connection Between Art, Healing and Public Health, one hundred different scientific studies were reexamined to further understand the impact of creative self-expression on ones mental and physical well-being. Each of the one hundred studies chosen included 30 participants who suffered from chronic illness and cancer. The results of these studies showed that visual arts activities impacted the psychological and physical health of participants in the following ways:

  • 'Art filled occupational voids and distracted from thoughts of illness'
  • 'Improved medical outcomes and decreased depression'
  • 'Improved well-being by decreasing negative emotions and increasing positive ones'
  • 'Reduced stress and anxiety'
  • 'Improved flow and spontaneity, expression of positive identity and social networks'
  •  'Improved immune system by strengthening the body's defenses on the cellular level'

Many recent studies further validate that exercising our creativity is good for us. Such findings have lead to the emergence of art therapy, which utilizes the process of creating art to facilitate healing, increase positive coping behaviors and improve an individual's health status. Studies have found that activities like painting and drawing aid in healing by externalizing stress and trauma. Singing, on the other hand, releases chemicals in the brain that serve as natural pain-killers and increases the 'bonding hormone', which makes us feel a sense of trust. Expressive writing can lead to a more positive mood and fewer illnesses while dancing can decrease stress, increase energy and improve sleep quality.

It is amazing to think that all these benefits can be reaped by simply picking up a pencil or paint brush and putting it to paper. By finding even just a few hours a week to express yourself in an artistic manner, you can nurture both your body and mind – now and in the future. The best part? There are so many easy and fun ways to create, all of which can be done alone or with friends and family. Because there are so many different types of art, there is something for everyone. It is important to remember that you don't need to be a professional to express yourself creatively – the health benefits of art are for everyone! Worry less about the finished product and more about the process. Expressing yourself creatively to benefit your health should be viewed as an enjoyable, stress-free, therapeutic activity, so don't worry about your level of skill or achieving perfect results. You don't need to be good at art for it to be good for you. So pick up that pencil and make something! Be creative! Your body will thank you.

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Creating a Gallery Wall in Your Home

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Family photographs are now assuming a more stylish role in the world of interior design. Hanging portraits of your family in your living space is an excellent way to add personality to your home décor. Displaying beautiful, professional photographs of your loved ones will warmly welcome guests into your household and serve as a reminder of the importance of family ties. There is no better way to commemorate your family's close bond than to display your finest memories together as works of art. By incorporating your favorite photographs of loved ones as elements of interior design, the love you share will radiate throughout your home.

An excellent way to display your framed professional portraits in the home is through the creation of a gallery wall. A gallery wall serves as a designated space to exhibit these photographs as works of fine art. The space you choose should provide you with enough flexibility to arrange your photographs. Over time, your collection of captured memories will increase and your gallery wall will grow. Your whole family will love to see themselves on display.

A family wall is very important. Art is great and I personally love art. However making space for a statement of family photographs can be very powerful and say a lot about you.

I have one client who is a big art collector and she tells me when she has company no one ever comments about her art. When they see the large family blowups of the children they always comment on the impact of the photographs.

Find a space that is appropriate. A hallway, an entrance to your home, a staircase to the second floor and let's start. Many people are lost in how to display. This can be very daunting. If you find that you are not a “creative person” and do not feel comfortable making these decisions then I would recommend hiring a professional. Lucille Khornak Gallery offers this service. We can layout your photographs and do a wall layout sized to your space.

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Attending Opening Reception at an Art Gallery

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If you’ve never attended an opening reception at an art gallery, we encourage you to find out what you’ve been missing. Opening receptions are unique experiences in which the community is invited to come together and celebrate the artist’s creative efforts. Opening receptions are special public viewings of the artist’s work and often include refreshments, food and music for your enjoyment. These events occur throughout the year – and you are always welcome to join in on the fun!

There are many reasons to attend these gatherings and show your support for the artist and art gallery. Opening receptions are excellent opportunities to meet other members of your community. Conversation blossoms effortlessly over the artwork and people can connect through sharing their different opinions. It is important to note that you do not need to know the artist or even be art savvy to attend. Guests are encouraged to experience the artwork in their own way – there is no wrong interpretation of how the work makes you feel and everyone’s perception varies. Remember, art is for everyone to enjoy!

The Lucille Khornak Gallery invites you to attend the next opening! “POP in the Hamptons” exhibition by Joss Parker. Come join us for the opening reception on Friday – 5pm to 8pm at 2400 Montauk Highway, Bridgehampton, NY 11932.

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The Classic Frame

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Frames are capable of much more than just displaying works of art. Without a great frame, a photograph simply cannot live up to its full potential as a beautiful piece of artwork in the home. The perfect frame will complement your photo and enhance its appearance. Frames provide works of art with a proper decorative context within your living space, serving to transition the eye from a 3-dimensional world into a 2-dimensional one. Frame choice can also influence how a work of art is experienced and appreciated by the observer, making it important to choose the right one.

When choosing the perfect frame for your family portraits, I prefer classic black, white, brown or silver – similar to ones you may see displaying works of art in museums around the world. These frames keep the attention of the viewer on the content of the photograph. They also add an element of elegance and timeless sophistication. Classic frames effortlessly fit into existing décor so that family memories can be easily displayed throughout the entire home. I believe that the simplicity of this design does not distract or take away from the beauty of the portrait. Instead, it subtly welcomes the viewer, drawing the eye directly to the photograph so that your family remains the focus.

If you are looking for a frame to preserve all your life's important moments, our gallery offers wall design in which we can incorporate your artwork and photographs.

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Lucille Khornak is Honored in New Rolls-Royce Book

We are pleased to announce that Lucille Khornak has been selected  for the best in photography and is featured in the Luxury Living section of the celebratory Rolls-Royce book.   The superior quality found in Lucille's photographs and books makes her a perfect match for the book that commemorates the legendary Rolls Royce. Her photographs of your children and family captures life's special moments with vibrant energy, soulfulness and whimsy. Her designs of your home’s gallery wall  will grab everyones attention and add warmth to the home. IMG_1485 copy

 

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Dan's Papers

This week we were pleasantly surprised with an article in Dan's Papers on August 23rd, 2013. Lucille was featured in a half-page spread about her work and message behind her photography. As Lucille puts it, “At the end of life all we have are memories and photographs. This is what we pass down to the next generation.” Capturing children and their families is her entire life's work and pride, easily radiating through the clear, carefully arranged photographs. By helping her clients design walls and coffee table books, the memories are preserved and even family members that are no longer with us can be remembered and cherished. Using your family as your artwork is crucial to building your children's self esteem and confidence, and seeing how quickly the years pass by looking at each year's photographs or holiday cards. Dan's Papers really captured the spirit of Lucille Khornak and her work, and we couldn't be more thrilled to be in the paper.  

Hamptons Paddle & Party for Pink

Last weekend on Saturday, August 17th, the second annual Hamptons Paddle & Party for Pink took place in Sag Harbor. It is an event for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, which consists of a multi-skill level paddle boarding race and benefit. Co-hosted by Lisa and Richard Perry (native New Yorkers), it allows paddle boarders of all skill sets to compete and help raise money to donate to the foundation. In its first year alone, the Paddle & Party for Pink raised more than half a million dollars, a landmark feat for the event’s induction year. Special guests for 2013 included athletes Gabrielle Reece and Laird Hamilton.

Hamptons Classic 2013

The Hamptons Classic is an annual horse show taking place in Bridgehampton, NY. Spectators and competitors come from all parts of the country to partake in the event. It is well-regarded as one of the largest show jumping events in the United States. Traditionally held during Labor Day weekend, it is one of the last major events to close the summer season of the Hamptons. More than 1,600 horses compete every year for hundreds of thousands of dollars in prize money, drawing many local equestrians, novice riders, world-renowned competitors and Olympic riders. The Hamptons Classic is a favored event by celebrities and philanthropists as well, as the high-profile location has prime opportunities to see and be seen. This year marks its 38th year active, having been a way of reintroducing older horse shows that had concluded decades ago. Plenty of activities for the family are available as well, such as pony rides, petting zoos, boutique shopping, and special events. Ticket may be purchased at the door or in advanced. The ASPCA also often makes an appearance, encouraging adoptions of pets in need of loving, forever homes. 

Located at 240 Snake Hollow Road, just off Route 27 in Bridgehampton, NY. Runs from August 25th thru September 1st.

Hamptons Lighthouses

Hamptons Lighthouses

In the Hamptons, there are plenty of old lighthouses to visit. A great way to teach the little ones about Long Island’s history in fishing, whaling, and other maritime ways of life, visiting at least one lighthouse a summer is a wonderful “daycation”.

Montauk Point Lighthouse

The most famous and oldest lighthouse in New York State, the Montauk Point Lighthouse was first build in 1792 after President George Washington authorized its construction with the 2nd Congress. Opening in 1796, it is one of the only active lighthouses left on Long Island. Its beacon flashes every five seconds for ships up to 19 nautical miles away to see and be guided back to the mainland. A classic visit for the family, guided tours include the tower, oil room, lookout points, lighthouse keeper’s dwelling, and more.

Standalone and Offshore Lighthouses

Many lighthouses are offshore, not connected to any main strip of land. The Little Gull Island Lighthouse is one of these that is also still active. First lit off Fisher’s Island in 1869, its 81 foot tower can be seen for miles still. Two Victorian house-esque lighthouses are the Race Rock Lighthouse and Long Beach Bar (Bug Light). Most of the offshore lighthouses are fairly small in stature, like the 49-foot tall Latimer Reef Light and the Orient Point (Coffee Pot) Lighthouse at 45 feet tall.

Easthampton and Southampton

In Easthampton, Cedar Island Lighthouse is tucked into county parkland, having been constructed in 1860. Now inactive, its charming 40 foot tall tower is homage to past times, with its unpainted granite and quaint appearance. Unfortunately, as more commercial spaces were hungered for, the oldest lighthouses were torn down to make room despite efforts to preserve them. The Shinnecock Bay Lighthouse suffered damage from the 1938 hurricane to its 150 foot tower, which was later demolished ten years later by the Coast Guard. The Gardiner’s Island Lighthouse is only a memory now, having been lit in 1855 but abruptly closing in 1898.

Southold Lighthouses

Southold has more lighthouses than any other town in the United States. The Horton Point Lighthouse houses the Southold Historical Society’s Nautical Museum. The lighthouse has been active since 1857, though between 1933-1990 it was inactive. The Plum Island Lighthouse has a very modest 55-foot tower and sits right near where the battle of Plum Gut occurred in 1775, just prior to the American Revolution. The North Dumping Lighthouse is one of the numerous inactive lighthouses, nestled on Fisher’s Island Sound. A simple brick tower cresting 21 feet, it was deactivated in 1959, not even 90 years after its opening.

Hayground Farmer's Market of Bridgehampton

The Hayground Farmer’s Market on Mitchell Lane in Bridgehampton, NY is one of the most family oriented farm stands in the Hamptons. Grown by local farmers, and a stand of produce grown by schoolchildren from the Hamptons, it has a great variety of both produce and non-traditional market goods. Seedlings, wine, cheese, fish, baked goods, olive oil, ice cream and sorbet, dog treats, pizza, and much more are all available at the Hayground Market. Specialities also include sweet corn, string beans, vine ripened tomatoes, berries, peaches, fresh eggs, and peppers of all colors and sizes. A community effort, the Hayground Market encourages schools to work as a team to yield organic, locally raised crops and to support the hard working farmers that allow for this to be possible. It’s a family affair for sure, as many of these farms are still owned by the original families who established them generations ago. By buying at your local farmer’s market instead of a grocery store, you get to carefully select exactly what you’d like on your dinner plate instead of purchasing a factory sealed bag of randomly chosen produce. You can even meet the people who grew your food and ask for preparation and storage tips. By supporting the farmers you help keep the traditional farm-based economy of Long Island alive. It’s a Hamptons tradition every summer to visit farm stands, and the Hayground Market should be at the top of your list.

Every Friday from 3pm to 6:30pm you can visit the Hayground Market to stock up on the freshest produce in Bridgehampton, chat with neighbors, and teach your children the importance of healthy, balanced diets and why it’s good to know where your food comes from. Running from Memorial Day weekend thru September, make it a weekly habit on your way home from the beach or work to pick up ripe fruit and vegetables, a homemade loaf of bread, and a bottle of locally grown wine. A treat you must try is their Josephine’s Feast jam, namely the Blushing Pink Grapefruit Marmalade, a favorite of mine and many others.

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Angel Ortiz: Graffiti turned fine art.

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One of the late Keith Haring's peers and personal friends, artist Angel Ortiz (also known as “LA II”, “Little Angel”, and “La Roc”) has begun to emerge as one of the up and coming Puerto Rican artists of the 21st century. His art career has been established for decades now, but rarely has he been recognized for who he is. His images are often replicated and used without permission, and even in the 1982 gallery exhibition featuring him and Haring's work, the gallery mistakenly labeled it as a solo exhibition for Haring and left LA uncredited as the artist.

 Today his work is now being recognized and shown at the Howard Gallery in East Hampton, NY. A strong Haring influence can be seen, but the work is entirely his own trademarks. Bold splashes of color, interlocked lines and patterns, and recognizable characters are some of his style characteristics. This graffiti artist is unique in his own right, and his many tag names can be seen in both urban and fine art settings.

Mark Gettes is now the proud owner of one of LA's works, pictured above.

Fishing Spots in the Hamptons

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Photo courtesy of Lucille Khornak Photography

Discover the Best Fishing Spots in the Hamptons: A Photographer’s Guide

Are you a photography enthusiast looking to capture the perfect fishing moments in the Hamptons? Whether you’re planning a relaxing solo day or a fun family outing, the Hamptons offer endless picturesque fishing spots that are perfect for your next photo shoot.

Top Fishing Locations in the Hamptons

Hampton Bays - Sears Bellows County Park Sears Bellows County Park in Hampton Bays is a must-visit for freshwater fishing. The park’s pond is teeming with bass, bluegills, perch, and pickerel, making it an ideal spot for capturing vibrant wildlife photography.

Shinnecock Inlet For those interested in saltwater fishing, Shinnecock Inlet is a prime location. Here, you can photograph bluefish and striped bass, especially during dawn and dusk. Using live bait can make for some dynamic action shots as the fish leap out of the water.

Montauk - Block Island Sound Montauk’s Block Island Sound is renowned for its saltwater fishing opportunities. From May through November, you can capture stunning images of striped bass, fluke, and bluefish. Renting a boat or bringing your own allows for a full day of photography on the water. Nearby, Theodore Roosevelt County Park offers surfcasting opportunities, while Big Reed Pond is perfect for freshwater fishing photography with its largemouth bass, bluegill, pumpkinseed, and white perch.

East Hampton - Cedar Point County Park Cedar Point County Park in East Hampton is another fantastic spot for saltwater fishing. The park offers surfcasting and shore fishing, providing ample opportunities for capturing the beauty of the Hamptons’ coastline.

Shelter Island Shelter Island is a hidden gem for fishing enthusiasts and photographers alike. From May through September, Hay Beach and Jennings Point are perfect for striped bass, bluefish, stripers, blues, and false albacore.

Peconic Bay Region The interconnected bays of the Peconic Bay region, including Flanders, Great and Little Peconic, Hogs Neck, Noyac Bay, and Shelter Island Sound, offer diverse fishing and photography opportunities. Capture images of bass, blues, weakfish, and porgies in these scenic locations.

Gardiners Bay Nestled between the North and South Forks of Long Island, Gardiners Bay is a small but fruitful fishing spot. It’s perfect for photographing porgies, bluefish, and striped bass, with occasional blowfish sightings. Cartwright Shoals at the southern end of Gardiners Bay is ideal for light tackle fishing.

Capture the Essence of the Hamptons

The Hamptons are not just a fishing paradise but also a photographer’s dream. Each location offers unique opportunities to capture the essence of fishing in the Hamptons. Whether you’re a professional photographer or an amateur enthusiast, these spots provide the perfect backdrop for your next photo shoot. We have to include any crab fisherman too! Blue claw crabs love leftover bluefish parts. If you're not an angler with a pole, ask a friend to lend you some scrap bluefish and you'll have your dinner by sunset.

Wildflowers of the Hamptons

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Photo courtesy of Lucille Khornak Photography

Discover the Beauty of Wildflowers in the Hamptons: A Garden Oasis

The Hamptons, known for its stunning coastal scenery and upscale lifestyle, is also home to a dazzling array of wildflowers that transform its gardens and meadows into vibrant tapestries of color. From radiant sunflowers and delicate cosmos to cheerful black-eyed Susans and elegant daisies, the east end of Long Island boasts a breathtaking selection of wildflowers that captivate both locals and visitors alike. The natural beauty of these flowers not only enhances the landscape but also promotes biodiversity, making them a perfect choice for any garden enthusiast.

Embrace Nature with Native Wildflowers

One of the most appealing aspects of wildflowers is their self-sustaining nature. Once established, they require minimal maintenance, making them an ideal choice for novice gardeners and busy families. Wildflowers such as primrose, milkweed, and cornflowers thrive in various conditions, effortlessly adapting to the local environment. By choosing native plants over exotic species, you help replenish the natural habitat, counteracting the effects of commercial development and over-fertilization.

Wildflowers play a crucial role in preventing soil erosion. Their extensive root systems help stabilize the soil, locking it in place and reducing the risk of runoff. This is especially important in the Hamptons, where beautiful landscapes are essential to maintaining the region’s charm. By incorporating wildflowers into your garden, you are not only beautifying your surroundings but also contributing to the ecological health of the area.

Easy Gardening for the Whole Family

Gardening with wildflowers can be a delightful family activity. Your children will love participating in the planting process and learning about the importance of nature. Take a trip to your local nursery or explore nearby parks to discover wildflower seeds and starter plants. Encourage your kids to choose their favorites, creating a garden that reflects their personalities and preferences.

Imagine the joy of receiving fresh-picked wildflowers from your little ones, placed lovingly in a teacup or small bottle as a symbol of their affection. This simple act fosters bonding and creates cherished memories. At the end of the season, take the time to clip some of your favorite blooms and press them between the pages of an old book. This activity not only preserves their beauty but also serves as a charming reminder of your family’s gardening adventures.

A Ever-Changing Landscape

One of the most enchanting features of wildflowers is their ability to surprise each year. Each season brings a unique blend of colors and varieties, as new blooms mix with returning favorites, creating a dynamic and ever-changing landscape. This magical transformation ensures that no two years are alike, keeping your garden fresh and exciting.

Whether you’re strolling through a local park filled with wildflower patches or cultivating your own garden oasis, the beauty of wildflowers in the Hamptons is undeniable. These hardy plants not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home but also contribute positively to the environment, making them a perfect choice for any garden enthusiast.

Conclusion

Incorporating wildflowers into your landscape is a rewarding endeavor that benefits both you and the environment. The Hamptons offer a plethora of options for discovering and enjoying these natural treasures. So gather your family, embrace your natural surroundings, and plant a wildflower garden that will bring beauty and joy for years to come. Celebrate the charm of wildflowers and their role in sustaining our ecosystems while creating lasting memories with your loved ones.

Unchained: Dog Show at the Lucille Khornak Gallery

Image Since its opening on Friday night, Unchained at the Lucille Khornak Gallery in Bridgehampton, NY has been a hot stop on the way to Art Hamptons and the Art MRKT. Dog owners, art collectors, and curious onlookers have been avidly admiring the whimsical sculptures that have made the gallery their temporary home. Visitors have marveled at their ingenuity and complexity, using recycled “junk” parts as a medium for creating beautiful sculptures. Two of the most popular creations are “Lola” - a shaggy white dog with an endearing gaze, and “Choo Choo”, a Yorkie with a cheerful look surrounded by a frame of long “hair” made of rust-toned bike chains. Another two notable mentions are the quizzical-faced “Othello”, a Boxer you have to smile at, if only for his puzzled look, and “Bully”, a French bulldog with bike bells in place of the iconic triangle ears Frenchies are best known for. Children and adults both find the sculptures equally charming and fun.

At the gallery, we are very excited and pleased with the positive feedback the dogs have been getting and are thrilled to have them with us until the 25th. If you're in Bridgehampton, you must stop in to see these dogs. After all, how often do you see a dog made entirely out of chains?

Hamptons Best Wineries

Discover the Best Wineries of the East End: A Guide to Long Island’s Wine Country

Exploring the East End of Long Island is a must for wine lovers and foodies alike. With its stunning landscapes and exquisite vineyards, this region is home to some of the best wineries, offering a delightful blend of world-class wines and unforgettable experiences. Here’s a closer look at three top wineries you can’t miss during your visit to the Hamptons.

1. Channing Daughters Winery

Location: 1927 Scuttlehole Rd, P.O. Box 2202, Bridgehampton, NY
Phone: 631-537-7224

Start your wine journey at Channing Daughters Winery, one of the premier wineries on the South Fork of Long Island. With an unbeatable $10 wine tasting tour, this winery provides an exceptional introduction to the region’s vibrant wine culture.

Channing Daughters stands out not only for its excellent wines but also for its unique wine club. Members gain access to exclusive events and rare wine selections that are not available to the general public. Additionally, the winery showcases stunning sculptures created by estate owner Walter Channing, adding an artistic flair to your visit.

Open year-round from 11 AM to 5 PM daily, Channing Daughters Winery offers a welcoming atmosphere perfect for casual tastings or special celebrations. Don’t miss the chance to explore their diverse range of wines and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

2. Wolffer Estate Vineyard

Location: 139 Sagg Rd, Sagaponack, NY
Phone: 631-537-5106

Next on your winery tour is the enchanting Wolffer Estate Vineyard. With its breathtaking entrance and expansive tasting room, this vineyard epitomizes elegance in the heart of the Hamptons. The grand hall features stunning 100-year-old beams and beautiful terracotta tiled floors, making it an ideal setting for wine tastings and special events.

Specializing in Merlots, Chardonnays, and Pinot Gris, Wolffer Estate is renowned for its award-winning wines. Notably, their 2005 Late Harvest Chardonnay was recognized as the best dessert wine in New York State, winning a gold medal at the Dallas Morning News Wine Competition.

To enhance your experience, Wolffer hosts live music every Friday night from 5 PM to 8 PM during the fall and winter seasons. Enjoy your favorite wines by the bottle or glass while local bands perform, all without a cover charge. For a more immersive experience, guided tours of the vineyard, wine cellar, and tasting room are available by appointment for $15 per person. The picturesque landscapes and stunning architecture also make Wolffer Estate a premier venue for wedding receptions.

3. Duck Walk Vineyards

North Location: 44535 Main Road, Southold, NY 11971
Phone: 631-765-3500
South Location: 231 Montauk Highway (Rt. 27), Water Mill, NY 11976
Phone: 631-726-7555 ext. 4

No visit to Long Island’s wine country would be complete without stopping at Duck Walk Vineyards. Founded by Dr. Herodotus “Dan” Damianos in the early 1980s, this vineyard has become a cornerstone of the Long Island Wine Trail.

The Water Mill location features a stunning Normandy Château-style building, making it one of the area’s most iconic landmarks. With ample space in their beautifully designed tasting rooms, Duck Walk is perfect for large groups and celebrations.

Duck Walk produces over 35,000 cases of wine annually, gaining popularity for its Vida Ice Wine—made from grapes frozen on the vine—and its unique Blueberry Port crafted from wild Maine blueberries. Their specialty Pinot Meunieris a delightful treat for any wine enthusiast. The Damianos family’s commitment to quality ensures that every bottle reflects their passion and personal touch.

Plan Your Visit

Whether you’re a wine aficionado or a casual sipper, the wineries of the East End offer something for everyone. From delightful tastings to stunning landscapes, each vineyard presents a unique experience waiting to be discovered. Be sure to visit Channing Daughters Winery, Wolffer Estate Vineyard, and Duck Walk Vineyards to savor the best of Long Island’s wine country.

With their exceptional offerings and inviting atmospheres, these wineries are not just places to taste wine; they are destinations that celebrate the artistry of winemaking and the beauty of the Hamptons. Plan your trip today and immerse yourself in the wonderful world of East End wines!