Participating artist (work on left) and well known local actress Mary Ellen Roche is all smiles. (Eileen Casey)

East Hampton - Hampton Photo, Arts and Framing presented "The Thank You Art Show" at Ashawagh Hall this past weekend for the second consecutive year, exhibiting works by over 100 local artists - many who braved the snowy weather to show their support at this mutual admiration evening.

It is always encouraging when a local business actually recognizes their loyal customers, and there is no better expression of that recognition than the way both Hampton Photo, Arts and Framing owner Dave McHugh, along with his son, Ben McHugh, have developed with the "The Thank You Art Show" - completely funded by them. Located in Bridgehampton, and in business for over 22 years, this event provides the opportunity for artists to exhibit work (one submission each), and to also say thank you to the McHugh's as well.

Dave and Ben are an artist's BFF - well known for the extra care, attention and involvement they render to artists with supplies, equipment, advice and genuine interest - Saturday's opening reception brought out a number of artists and guests despite the less than perfect road conditions and snowy weather.


With live music, a raffle, food, wine, and cupcakes too the evening once again brought artists together to catch up with each other, exhibit work for a weekend, and to admire the work of others, including painting, photography, sculpture, origami, jewelry, and more.

This year's raffle included donations from Provisions, Babette's, The Hideaway, Ross School Community Programs, Ananda Yoga, Epic Martial Arts, Channing Daughters Winery, Cavaniola's, Elizabeth's Place, The Hampton Classic, Second Nature Markets, Nutrition Dragon, Nancy Atlas, Andrew Cohen Chiropractor, and more - with 100 percent of the proceeds going to various charities, including St. Anne's Food Pantry, Elsa's Ark, and Huntington's Disease Research.

So to Dave and Ben - right back at ya - thank you too!