Blacksmith and metal artist James Gonzalez of Potsdam was commissioned for a 2023 exhibit at The TAUNY Center which was entitled “Inhabited Arabesques.” The installation explored scenes of nature, local wildlife, and folk imagery on large scale metal decorative lamps made from repurposed sheet metal. The pieces captivated visitors with its intricate designs, adding a vibrant new layer to The Center’s ambience and community offerings. The exhibit was constructed and took place during Mr. Gonzalez’s time as a full-time artistic staff member of TAUNY for two years as part of the Tides Foundation Creatives Rebuild New York grant the organization received from 2022-2024.