GO Art! honors artists, contributors to cultural scene

Arthur Barnes receives Lifetime Achievement Award and Lyndonville Lions named ‘Supporter of the Year’

Photos courtesy of GO Art! – (Left) Arthur Barnes accepts a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Genesee-Orleans Regional Arts Council (GO Art!) on March 29 during the annual Genean Awards celebration at Go Art!’s Seymore Place in Batavia. Gregory Hallock, Go Art! executive director, is at right. (Right) Bruce Schmidt from the Lyndonville Lions Club accepts the award for the Lions Club, which was named “Supporter if the Year.”

BATAVIA – The Genesee-Orleans Regional Arts Council (GO Art!) on March 29 honored important contributors to the local arts and culture scene.

The annual Genean Awards were presented at the Seymore Place in Batavia. The honorees include:

Lifetime Achievement Award: Arthur Barnes of Millville

A self-taught artist, Barnes’ work has defined the visual identity of Orleans County for nearly four decades, GO Art! said in presenting the award.

“Arthur’s murals, drawings, and paintings are not only beautiful—they are historic documentation,” said Gregory Hallock, Go Art! executive director. “Through his eyes, we see the Erie Canal, our rural landscapes, and our communities as they were, and sometimes as they still are.”

Barnes painted mural about the canal that are featured in Medina, Knowlesville, Albion and Holley.

“His commitment to preserving a historic cobblestone Quaker meeting house as his studio only deepens the story of his life and work,” Hallock said. “Arthur, you are truly one of a kind.”

Lifetime Achievement Award: Lorie Longhany of Le Roy

From Go Art!: “Lorie’s legacy as an artist is expansive—pointillistic drawings of historic places, murals, public commissions, and works featured in everything from t-shirts to museum displays.

“Her impact extends beyond her own artwork into her role as a mentor and educator—teaching seniors, students, and developmentally disabled adults with grace and passion. Lorie is proof that an artist’s reach goes far beyond the canvas. Thank you for a lifetime of creativity and generosity.”

Individual Artist of the Year: Bryan Wright of Batavia

GO Art!: “Bryan Wright, is a native of Charleston, South Carolina, who now calls Batavia home. Bryan draws inspiration from water and oceanic life, infusing his artwork with a sense of depth, fluidity, and emotion that reflects both his roots and his new surroundings.

“He is a multi-medium artist whose work offers quiet yet powerful reflections of the world around him. Nominated by Jim Burns, Andrew Fisher, Tina Burns, and Brianne Wright, Bryan’s passion and dedication shine through in every piece he creates.”

Supporter of the Year: Lyndonville Lions Club

GO Art!: “The Supporter of the Year award goes to the Lyndonville Lions Club, a cornerstone of community spirit and celebration.

“From organizing one of the most spectacular July 4th fireworks shows in Western New York, to their Street Dances, park concerts, and their newly launched Oktoberfest—this organization knows how to bring people together.

“For over 50 years, they’ve shown that arts and culture thrive when communities care. Nominated by Lynne Johnson, we are proud to recognize the Lions for their outstanding and ongoing contributions.”

Visionary Artist Award: Frank Corbiserie of Batavia

GO Art!: “When we think of vision, we think of someone who sees not just what is, but what could be. Frank Corbiserie, this year’s Visionary Artist Award recipient, has brought something entirely new to Batavia: a thriving stand-up comedy scene.

“Before Frank, you had to go to Buffalo or Rochester to find local comedy. Now, thanks to his passion and talent, we can laugh, connect, and discover local comedic voices right here in our own community. He’s not only hilarious himself, but he’s also a builder of spaces—literal and creative—where joy happens. Frank, thank you for making us laugh and believe in the power of the arts to transform community.”

Volunteers of the Year: Thea Anderson & Kyle Moore

GO Art!: “The Volunteers of the Year, Thea Anderson and Kyle Moore, represent the spirit of selfless dedication. Whether it’s helping set up events, managing behind-the-scenes logistics, or simply showing up again and again with a can-do attitude and a love for the arts—they make things happen. Volunteers are the heartbeat of nonprofit arts organizations, and Thea and Kyle beat strong and steady. We’re incredibly grateful for their contributions.”