Our Story

Housed in a historical building dating back to 1886, Water Street Studios began as a shared vision of a group of interested community members, talented artists, a generous property owner, and the City of Batavia in 2007.

 This vision turned into a plan when the Batavia Artists Association (doing business as Water Street Studios) was founded and opened to the public two years later in 2009.

We are grateful to everyone who has participated in Water Street Studios' success and longevity since 2007.

Mission

Vision

Water Street Studios advances the creation and appreciation of the arts by supporting artists, patrons, students, and the surrounding communities through exhibitions, education, public art, and creative initiatives.  

Water Street Studios envisions the arts as a unifying force—accessible to all and essential to building vibrant, connected communities across the Fox Valley. 

Our Programs

  • The Water Street Studios School of Art delivers high-quality art education through diverse classes, workshops, and community outreach initiatives. The curriculum spans multiple mediums, including drawing, painting, and ceramics.

  • The organization dedicates over 4,000 square feet of gallery space to curated works by local, regional, and national artists. Through 11 annual exhibitions and a range of events - including workshops, lectures, performances, and private gatherings - the galleries actively foster community engagement and broaden public access to the arts. Additionally, Water Street Studios invites local artists to participate in its Community Gallery, strengthening connections with the surrounding community.

  • The organization enhances community access to the arts by providing 25 studios for emerging and professional artists. Resident artists are encouraged to engage with the public through exhibitions, teaching opportunities, and on-site art sales.  

  • The Water Street Studios Public Art Initiative (WSSPAI), a volunteer-led committee of Water Street Studios, brings together professional artists, creatives and volunteers to enhance public engagement with the arts in Batavia and the greater Fox Valley. By organizing outdoor art installations, supporting community-focused events, and partnering with local organizations, WSSPAI fosters a sense of community, increases awareness of public art, and positions Water Street Studios as a central hub for artistic activity. Recent projects, such as the Art of the Fox partnership and the Wave Petunia Mural, exemplify WSSPAI’s commitment to enriching public spaces, stimulating economic growth, and leaving a legacy of creativity and inspiration for residents and visitors alike.  Learn more by contacting publicart@waterstreetstudios.org

  • The Ceramics Lab operates on a subscription-based model that provides clay artists with consistent access to professional quality wheels, tools, glazes, and essential shared equipment within a collaborative studio environment. In addition to physical resources, the program fosters a strong community of artists who support one another’s creative practice. The Lab currently serves 42 active subscribers and maintains a waitlist of an additional 40 artists, demonstrating significant demand and underscoring the program’s importance as a vital resource for the region’s ceramics community.  Learn more claylab@waterstreetstudios.com