Roxbury Arts Group Welcomes Patrick Barnes as New Executive Director

ROXBURY – The Roxbury Arts Group is pleased to announce the appointment of Patrick Barnes as its new Executive Director. Barnes will begin his tenure on November 25, 2025,bringing fresh energy and a new vision for how creativity can continue to shape and strengthen the region.

For years, the Roxbury Arts Group has been proof that small organizations can have a big impact. From exhibitions and performances to creative learning and services for artists, the organization has helped make Delaware County a more vibrant and connected place to live—demonstrating how the arts contribute not only to cultural life but also to the vitality of local communities.

“Patrick understands the powerful role the arts can play,” said Bill Berg, Board President. “They don’t just enrich our lives—they help us imagine the future, attract people and energy to our towns, and create opportunities where we least expect them. We were drawn to Patrick’s ability to think boldly about the future while staying grounded in community.”

Barnes, who was born and raised in Stamford, New York, and holds a masters degree in Arts Administration and Museum Studies, brings years of experience in arts leadership and community engagement. He has served locally as the Executive Director of the West Kortright Centre, in East Meredith, New York, and the Director of Programs at Arts & Rec in Stamford, New York. He has led those and other local nonprofits in developing new programs, increasing grant funding, and improving operations and internal controls. He also serves as a director of the Western Catskills Community Revitalization Council and Performance Plus.

“I’m honored to join the Roxbury Arts Group and continue to serve this incredible community,” said Barnes. “In a rural county like ours, the arts aren’t a luxury—they’re a lifeline. They bring people together, spark pride and possibility, and help communities grow stronger in every sense of the word. I look forward to fostering new partnerships and expanding access to the arts.”

Looking ahead, the Roxbury Arts Group plans to build on its strong foundation by exploring new ways to engage artists and audiences, spark dialogue, and nurture creativity that ripples beyond its physical walls. Those physical walls will also be improved over the next year, through funding received as part of the Downtown Revitalization Grant awarded by the State of New York to the Town of Roxbury.

The Roxbury Arts Group invites our community to meet Patrick and support the arts at our Holiday Dance Party on December 5, 2025, tickets and information available at www.roxburyartsgroup.org.  For any questions about this transition, please contact the Roxbury Arts Group’s Interim Director, Gregory Reece, at director@roxburyartsgroup.org.