100 Years of Beacon’s Dummy Light On View At The Howland Public Library

Artist Photo Credit: Sharon Zhang,  July 8 PM

The Beacon’s Dummy Light, 100 Years exhibition is on view at Howland Public Library now through November 1. This includes a collection of imagery from various multi-disciplinary artists, as well as middle-schoolers.

The Dummy Light is located at at the intersection of Main and East Main Streets, and is just one of three remaining dummy lights in New York State.

Ever wondered why it is called the “Dummy Light”? Come find out! The Beacon Historical Society has collaborated with the library on a companion mini-exhibition exploring the colorful history of the Dummy Light. Vintage photographs and interesting details will tell the story of the unusual traffic signal.

Artist Photo Credit: Polly Perkins, Mini Dummy

This exhibition brings together works by Hudson Valley artists celebrating and interpreting the Dummy Light as it marks its 100th anniversary. Through painting, drawing, collage, textiles, and mixed media, participating artists offer their own perspectives on a landmark that has become an enduring symbol of Beacon.

Also on view in the library’s Community Room is Cardboard Dreams, an exhibition from the local art education organization, Compass Arts, featuring work created by middle school campers. During the program, campers spent a week thinking about how cities work, what they love about Beacon, and what they would change if they could. The resulting installation features parts of their re-envisioned Main Street, displayed right on Main Street, including, of course, their own take on the Dummy Light.

Together, the exhibitions and reception offer a celebration of Beacon past, present, and imagined future, bringing together local art, history, music, and young people’s creative visions for their community.

Artist Photo Credit: Tena Cohen, Stop & Go

Artist Photo Credit: Brandon Fiege, Dummy Moon

Artist Photo Credit: Beacon’s Dummy Light: Anniversary Postcard Created by Erica Hauser