Artpark announces organizational & strategic business updates

Organizational changes, selection of new ticketing platform & New York State Film Production Facility designation

Artpark & Company revealed organizational and strategic updates as it works toward continued future growth.

The board of directors announced Sonia Kozlova Clark as president of Artpark. Clark, who has served as the organization’s executive director since 2016, will continue to lead Artpark.

Joanne Bauer, chairwoman of the board, said, “Sonia has been instrumental in developing a new vision for Artpark and her accomplishments are numerous. Her appointments to various Artistic committees have been well deserved and exemplify her importance in the arts. Her creativity to keep Artpark relevant during these unprecedented times has been outstanding. She understands the importance of the arts and continues to serve our Western New York community.”

Artpark also announced Dave Wedekindt, who has served as director of marketing and sales since 2018, was promoted to vice president of concerts and marketing.

“Dave has been a tremendous asset to the Artpark team. His contributions to our organization are many, and his market expertise is unmatched,” Clark said. “Dave’s expanded responsibilities toward growing our large-scale music concerts are going to be the key to Artpark’s long term development as a multifaceted arts organization.”

In addition to these organizational changes, Artpark also shared strategic business updates.

•Artpark has selected Ticketmaster as its new official ticketing services provider. As the organization looks ahead to both continuation and expansion of programming and strategic partnerships, it was determined the industry-leading ticket sales and service company was the best fit. A press release said, “Ticketmaster is on the leading edge in technology, capacity and consumer experience, and ticket sales will benefit from the broad exposure that Ticketmaster’s platform provides. Patrons will enjoy expanded service with comparable fees as in the past.”

Tickets for upcoming events can now be purchased at www.ticketmaster.com. Tickets purchased via the former ticketing provider (Tickets.com) for 2020 performances that were rescheduled to 2021 remain valid and do not need to be replaced.

The Artpark box office remains closed for in-person sales as staff continue to work remotely. Any questions regarding ticketing can be directed to [email protected] or by phone at 716-754-4375 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays.

•Artpark’s Mainstage Theater has achieved status as a Qualified Film Production Facility in New York state under the regulations governing the Empire State Film Production Tax Credit program. With 10,500 square-feet of space, the theater stage offers significant space for soundstage work. Furthermore, Artpark’s picturesque 150-acre park setting provides additional opportunities for filming.

Clark said, “We are pleased to receive this special designation and the opportunity to participate in the region’s growing film industry. Through our ongoing master plan process, we have identified areas for new growth, especially in our offseason period. Film activity can not only attract funds to help support Artpark’s mission, but shine a national and international spotlight on us as well.”

Any queries regarding filming opportunities at Artpark can be directed to Clark at [email protected].

While public events at Artpark have not yet commenced for 2021, the community is still welcome to enjoy the outdoor art installations, the Percussion Garden, Native American Peace Garden, “Cover The Water” sonic tour app by the Holladay Brothers, walking trails, fishing and other free opportunities for recreation and relaxation open daily from dawn until dusk.

Patrons are also encouraged to join “Artpark Live: A campaign for a vibrant future.” Tax-deductible contributions help the nonprofit Artpark & Company continue its mission to create, nurture and present the arts. Visit www.artpark.net for more information.