Purpose Full Art is a project by Mountain Lake PBS exploring the intersection of creativity and civic life. Enjoy this series of reports showing how the arts promote civility and build stronger communities by encouraging imaginative endeavors, empathy and understanding among people from all walks of life.
Public Storytelling in Plattsburgh
Organizers of storytelling events say the growing movement offers more than entertainment. In downtown Plattsburgh, people share true stories from their lives, bridging divides, building empathy, and inspiring one another. Find out more about storytelling evenings at the Bell Fire Arts Collective.
Art of Puppetry
Handmade puppets and nostalgic projections conjure a magical world onstage, sparking conversation among audiences. Visit Andrew Murdock to learn more about the puppeteer, and the Upper Jay Art Center for information about performances and programs.
S.A.M. Fund
The Southern Adirondack Musicians Fund uses the power of music to support performers in crisis. Many musicians face emergencies without adequate medical coverage. The fund allows fellow musicians and community members to help keep the “wolf from the door.” Learn about upcoming concerts and ways to give at the Southern Adirondack Musicians Fund.
Pop Up Supper Club Events
An Adirondack chef offers diners a delicious, shared experience, connecting people through the culinary arts. Chef Zachary Clemans says food communicates to the heart, and serving it is a performance. For information, email him at cookeeboybrand@gmail.com.
North Creek Mosaic Project
This is the largest public art project honoring the Adirondacks. The tile mural in North Creek was created with the help of many community members and reflects local recreation, wildlife, and natural beauty. Enjoy our 2023 report on the mural and see the list of major donors.
Au Sable Forks Mural
The illusionary mural “A Sense of Place” adds character to Au Sable Forks and encourages more art initiatives in the community. Learn about the arts at the Tahawus Center and about the muralist at Georgeanne Gaffney.
Late Night for the Planet
This student-run live event series blends performance, politics, and community in a dynamic, informal setting. Hosted in a local bar, it’s part variety revue, part civic forum, designed to engage people with local issues—not with a lecture, but with a show.
Plattsburgh Poets’ Mural
A mural on Bridge Street in Plattsburgh honors poets Lucretia and Margaret Davidson, sisters from the city. Coordinated by Outside Art Plattsburgh Public Art Project and painted by Brendon Palmer-Angell, it celebrates their literary legacy while enhancing the streetscape.
Watch Full Episodes
Purpose Full Art: Promoting Civility
Purpose Full Art: Harmonious Communities
Spotlight is made possible in part by the Glenn and Carol Pearsall Adirondack Foundation, dedicated to improving quality of life for year-round Adirondack residents, and by Hill and Hollow Music.