Welcoming Our New Artists in Residence for 2025–26

Fall at Arlene’s marks the beginning of a new creative cycle, and we’re thrilled to introduce the newest members of our Artist in Residence Program: Casey Beal and Althea Pestine-Stevens. They join returning residents Ottavia Huang, Aly Parrott, and Rainier Bernhardt in what promises to be a dynamic and inspiring season.

Casey Beal is a textile and fine artist based in Middleburgh, NY. Her work is deeply influenced by the natural rhythms of rural upstate New York—from native plant life to agricultural landscapes. Casey’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in every aspect of her practice: she uses organic textiles, prints greeting cards on recycled paper, and packages her products with a reuse/reduce/recycle mindset. From hand-painted hiking bags and block-printed linens to community murals, Casey’s work is tactile, grounded, and built to connect.

“As an artist I strive to create work that is beautiful and accessible to a wide audience,” Casey shares. “Variation in medium ensures the continuation of my personal voice.” Casey is a graduate of Temple University’s Tyler School of Art and a member of Cooperstown Art Association, Saratoga Arts, and Arlene’s. Her work has earned numerous awards and grants, including the 2024 CREATE Arts Education Grant and Best in Show at Saratoga Arts Juried Art in the Park.

Althea Pestine-Stevens (they/them) is a felt artist whose work explores themes of nature, outer space, and local culture. Their recent piece Zoom:Tulips was featured in the 2025 Member Select Show, and they’re excited to expand their body of work through the residency.

“This program gives me space to grow as an artist, teacher, and community leader,” Althea says. “The mentorship I’ve received at Arlene’s has been crucial to my growth in both skill and confidence.”

Althea’s upcoming workshop will include needle-felted sunsets, wet and needle-felted cat bookmarks, and water-themed landscapes. Their are developing a community project that focuses on sustainability through textile repair—teaching participants how to mend clothing with wool, turning worn items into personalized, meaningful pieces while reducing waste.

We’re honored to support Casey and Althea’s creative journeys and can’t wait to see how their work evolves throughout the season. Stay tuned for workshops, exhibitions, and community projects that reflect their unique voices and visions.