BHS to feature drawings of Queens historic structures

A new exhibit opening at the Bayside Historical Society on September 24 will showcase historically significant structures in Queens through a series of drawings by artist Joe LoGuirato. Spotlighting the borough's architectural heritage, the 16 drawings depict structures within Queens that are either NYC designated landmarks or are worthy of adding to that list.

An opening reception will be held at BHS headquarters, the Castle in Fort Totten Park, on September 24 at 7 pm. Light refreshments will be served. A $5 donation is requested, and advance reservations are necessary: (718) 352-1548.

Entitled Perspectives of Queens - Drawings by Joe LoGuirato, the exhibit was conceived by the artist and evolved through input from BHS as to what sites might be spotlighted.

"Some of the sites are up for review by the Landmarks Preservation Commission, like the Ahles House and the Ridgewood Theater," said Alison McKay, BHS Archivist and Exhibit Coordinator. "Others are featured simply to call attention to the many historically significant structures there are in Queens, and to the landmark designation process."

LoGuirato's distinctive technique (pencil on gessoed wood panel) not only captures the defining elements of these important structures, but lends a unique artistic perspective to the subject matter.

Sites depicted include: the Jamaica Savings Bank (Jamaica Avenue and 161 Street); Republican Club (Lefferts Blvd in Richmond Hill); Grace Church (Jamaica Ave in Jamaica); Hell Gate Bridge (connecting Ward's Island to Astoria); the Poppenhusen Institute (College Point); Sidewalk Clock (Jamaica Ave and 161 Street); Elk's Club (Queens Blvd); Union Church (Astoria); Town Hall (Flushing); Ahles House (39th Avenue and 213 Street in Bayside); the Stone House (35th Avenue and Bell Blvd in Bayside), and Ridgewood Theater (Myrtle Avenue); among others.

LoGuirato is a native New Yorker who derives inspiration from the city's streets, skyline and array of building facades and architectural details. These elements are repeatedly reflected in his work. The Art Director for the Office of Communications at Brooklyn College and an Adjunct Professor in the Art and Design Department of New York City College of Technology, LoGuirato holds a BFA from Queens College and an MA from Brooklyn College. He has had four one-person exhibits, and has participated in many group shows throughout the metropolitan area, including last year's Celebration of the Arts at BHS in which he won second prize.

The exhibit will be on display through November 1, 2009. For more information, call (718) 352-1548, or visit BHS online at baysidehistorical.org