Music lovers will find entertainment on the Ide Family of Dealerships Main Stage, the Gazebo Stage, the Avery Mall Stage presented by K9 Resorts with media support from (585) Magazine, and The Porch at 27 Atkinson Street with media support from WXXI | The Route. 

This year’s headlining acts bring a dynamic blend of national talent and local favorites to Corn Hill including: 

A celebrated name in the British blues-rock and psychedelic jam scenes, The Billy Walton Band will bring their genre-bending sound and electric guitar riffs to the Ide Family of Dealerships Main Stage on Sunday, July 13. With roots in the Jersey Shore and deep ties to the legendary Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes, Billy Walton’s live show is a high-energy ride through decades of musical influence. 

Todd East and Casino Royale will treat audiences to an unforgettable Sunday afternoon performance on the Ide Family of Dealerships Main Stage, featuring East’s new album “I’ve Been Watching You.” A powerhouse pianist and vocalist with decades of accolades, East blends soul, jazz, and R&B with magnetic charisma and an unmatched stage presence. 

Eli Flynn and The Everymen will bring their genre-crossing, groove-driven style to the Gazebo Stage on Saturday, July 12. Known for his work with Giant Panda Guerilla Dub Squad and The Able Bodies, Flynn brings a soulful, lyrical storytelling approach to his solo work—merging funk, soul, and rock with infectious hooks and heartfelt reflections.

Local indie rock duo Reddy Hollow will take the Gazebo Stage on Sunday, July 13. With tight rhythms and raw lyricism, the band has captured a fast-growing fan base following their 2024 debut EP and earned critical acclaim from outlets like Roc City Mag and theindyreview.com. 

More than 20 musical acts will perform across all four stages throughout the weekend, offering a wide variety of genres and experiences for every musical taste. The full entertainment schedule is available at cornhillartsfestival.com/entertainment/. In addition to the music, festival highlights include over 350 artists, the MVP Health Care Emerging Artist Expo, LEGO® Creations by ROCLUG Exhibit, 30+ food vendors, the return of the Fairy House Showcase, presented by Jess Decotis of Howard Hanna, and activities for all ages. For more information on the 2025 Corn Hill Arts Festival, visit cornhillartsfestival.com.

The Corn Hill Neighbors Association and ESL Federal Credit Union are proud to kick off the countdown to the 2025 Corn Hill Arts Festival with the official unveiling of this year’s commemorative poster art at the Corn Hill Waterfront & Navigation Foundation and Flight Wine Bar. 

Andie Kopf, 2025 Festival Chairperson, expressed excitement about this beloved tradition, “Each year, the poster captures something new about the Corn Hill Arts Festival, and this year’s design is no exception. It perfectly reflects the fun and welcoming atmosphere our visitors have come to love.”

This year’s commemorative poster was created by Rochester-based artist and former Emerging Artist First-Place Winner, Maiya Kettlehone, whose multidisciplinary work spans drawing, painting, printmaking, and sculpture. A 2024 master’s graduate of Nazareth University, Kettlehone returns this summer as an independent and slightly more “emerged” vendor.

Kettlehone’s artwork, inspired by vintage children’s book illustrations and the landscapes of Western New York, is known for its whimsical yet mysterious qualities. Of her poster design, she shared, “After participating in the Emerging Artist category, I was inspired to capture the vibrant personalities and creative energy that make the Corn Hill Festival so special. Each character in the poster is a playful nod to the eclectic individuals I’ve met through the festival.”

The unveiling event also featured remarks from Rochester Deputy Mayor, Michael Burns and Rich Pulvino, VP of ESL Federal Credit Union, who continue to champion the festival and its enduring impact on the community.

In addition to the poster reveal, highlights of the 2025 festival were shared, including:

• The 15th Annual Emerging Artist Expo, presented by MVP Health Care – Offers artists ages 15 and up a unique opportunity to showcase their work, connect with the community, and gain real-world festival experience.
  
• The return of the Fairy House Showcase, presented by Jess Decotis of Howard Hanna – A magical and family-friendly favorite encouraging creativity and storytelling through nature-inspired fairy dwellings.
  
• The 4th Annual Corn Hill 5K, presented by Fleet Feet – A scenic run along the Genesee Riverway Trail for all levels of runners.
  
• LEGO® Creations by ROCLUG Exhibit – A fan-favorite display featuring intricate, large-scale LEGO® creations that captivate visitors of all ages.

The 2025 Corn Hill Arts Festival will take place Saturday, July 12 from 10 AM–6 PM and Sunday, July 13 from 10 AM–5 PM, rain or shine, throughout the historic Corn Hill neighborhood. The festival will feature over 350 juried artists, live music across four stages, a variety of  food and drink, and two beer and wine gardens. Admission and shuttles are free.

For media assets and more information, visit cornhillartsfestival.com/media.

About the Corn Hill Neighbors Association
The Corn Hill Neighbors Association is a volunteer-led organization committed to preserving and celebrating the historic character of Rochester’s Corn Hill neighborhood. Through events like the Corn Hill Arts Festival, the Association fosters community engagement and cultural enrichment. Learn more at www.cornhill.org.

Festival Media Contact:
Carrie Tschetter 
Archer Communications
585-261-4805 
ctschetter@archercom.com

The Corn Hill Neighborhood Association is proud to announce the return of the Emerging Artists Expo as part of the 57th Annual Corn Hill Arts Festival, presented by ESL Federal Credit Union, taking place on July 12 and 13, 2025. Now in its 15th year, the Emerging Artists Expo, presented by MVP Health Care, continues to spotlight up-and-coming creatives and provide a welcoming platform for artists who are just beginning their artistic journeys. 

The Emerging Artists Expo gives new artists an invaluable opportunity to exhibit their work, connect with the community, and gain professional experience in a festival setting. Selected participants will receive a complimentary 10’x10’ booth space, including a tent, access to a central payment station, and promotional support leading up to and during the event. 

Set along the scenic backdrop of Eagle Street, the Expo offers festivalgoers a chance to meet and support a diverse range of local talent while discovering one-of-a-kind artwork in an inviting and encouraging environment. 

“The Emerging Artists Expo is all about championing fresh talent and creating space for new artists to shine,” said Andie Kopf, Chair of the 2025 Corn Hill Arts Festival. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see the creativity and passion these artists bring to the festival—and to watch their confidence grow as they connect with thousands of visitors.” 

During the festival, a panel of judges will evaluate each artist’s work and booth presentation, awarding honors for creativity, craftsmanship, and overall impact. Artists will also receive helpful feedback and guidance to support their continued growth.

Applications for the 2025 Emerging Artists Expo are open through June 7th. Accepted artists will be notified by June 14th. For more information and to apply, visit:  www.cornhillartsfestival.com/emergingartists. 

About the Corn Hill Neighbors Association 

The Corn Hill Neighbors Association is a volunteer organization based in Rochester’s Historic Corn Hill Neighborhood. The Association is committed to preserving the neighborhood’s unique character and fostering community through events and initiatives like the Corn Hill Arts Festival. Learn more at www.cornhill.org.

“Our collaboration with ESL Federal Credit Union plays a vital role in making the festival a success,” said Andie Kopf, 2025 Corn Hill Festival Chair. “ESL is more than a sponsor, they are an essential part of the festival experience. From their welcoming hospitality tent at Lunsford Circle to the Kindness Crew oering water and snacks to festivalgoers, their presence adds an extra layer of warmth and generosity. Their unwavering support truly embodies the community spirit that makes this event so special.” 

Beyond nancial support, ESL Federal Credit Union shares a vision of bringing people together through meaningful experiences. 

“We’re thrilled to again be the presenting sponsor for this year’s Corn Hill Arts Festival,” said Rich Pulvino, vice president/director, marketing, ESL Federal Credit Union. “Each year the Corn Hill Neighborhood Association and their volunteers help to bring people together, inspire creativity, and celebrate the arts in this treasured, storied neighborhood in Rochester. We welcome you to join us to take in the history of the Corn Hill Neighborhood, and support the more than 350 artists and vendors in attendance.” 

This year’s Corn Hill Arts Festival will feature an exciting array of experiences, including an expanded musical lineup, over 350 juried artists, a diverse selection of food vendors, the beer and wine garden, and beloved returning events such as the 15th Annual Emerging Artist Expo, the Fairy Houses Showcase, and the Sunday morning 5K Run. 

“Community engagement is at the heart of everything we do at Corn Hill, and the festival is a perfect example of how people come together to create something truly special,” emphasized Kopf. “Our volunteers are the driving force behind this event, and we are dedicated to expanding our volunteer team to enhance the overall festival experience. If you’re looking for a meaningful

and enjoyable way to contribute, we invite you to join us in bringing this incredible tradition to life.” 

Volunteer opportunities are available for all skill levels, both before and during the festival weekend. Interested individuals can sign up at cornhillartsfestival.com/volunteer. 

Proceeds from the Corn Hill Arts Festival, made possible by ESL Federal Credit Union and other generous sponsors, are reinvested into the neighborhood—supporting scholarships, historical preservation, and community projects that continue to make Corn Hill a cherished part of Rochester. 

For more information on attending, participating, or volunteering, please visit www.cornhillartsfestival.com. 

About Corn Hill Neighbors Association 

The Corn Hill Neighbors Association is a volunteer organization based in the Historic Corn Hill Neighborhood. They are dedicated to preserving and promoting the unique historical character and beauty of the neighborhood through community events and initiatives. For more information, please visit www.cornhill.org. 

About ESL Federal Credit Union 

ESL Federal Credit Union is a full-service nancial institution serving the Greater Rochester area. With a focus on community involvement and nancial wellness, they are committed to improving the nancial lives of their members. For more information, please visit www.esl.org.

Artists working in a variety of mediums—including ceramic arts, painting, photography, jewelry, woodworking, and more—are encouraged to apply. With over 100,000 visitors annually, the festival oers an unparalleled opportunity to display and sell artwork in a picturesque and lively setting. 

“The Corn Hill Arts Festival has always been a testament to the power of art to unite and inspire,” said Andie Kopf, the 2025 Festival Chair. “This event is a cornerstone of our community, and we’re thrilled to continue the tradition of welcoming talented artists from near and far.” 

Now in its 57th year, the Corn Hill Arts Festival has become a summer staple for art enthusiasts and families alike. Drawing visitors from across New York State, neighboring regions, and Canada, the festival oers a dynamic mix of art, live music, and interactive experiences for all ages. 

“Whether you’re an emerging artist or a seasoned professional, this festival provides a unique platform to connect with a diverse audience and gain recognition for your work,” added Kopf. “The atmosphere is electric, and the setting of the historic streets of Corn Hill is truly inspiring.” 

Beyond showcasing exceptional artistic talent, the festival brings together live music, community focused activities, and interactive experiences for all ages. This dynamic mix of creativity, entertainment, and delicious food, creates an inviting and energetic atmosphere ensuring a memorable experience for all who attend. 

Artists interested in participating can apply online at cornhillartsfestival.com/apply. The application deadline is March 20, 2025. All applicants must complete a jurying process to be accepted into the festival. Participating artists will also have the chance to compete for cash prizes.

Artists with no prior festival experience can apply to take part in the Emerging Artists Program, which provides rst-time exhibitors with guidance and support in addition to discounted registration fees. To learn more and apply to be an Emerging Artist, visit cornhillartsfestival.com/apply/emerging-artists. 

About the Corn Hill Arts Festival: The Corn Hill Arts Festival is an annual celebration of the arts in the historic Corn Hill neighborhood. Established in 1969, the festival brings together artists, musicians, and the community for a weekend of creativity and culture. For more information on the Corn Hill neighborhood and festival, please visit their website: https://cornhillartsfestival.com/

CONTACT: Carrie Tschetter, Archer Communications, Inc., ctschetter@archercom.com 

“Each year, the festival’s poster serves as a celebration of our community and beloved arts festival. We’re seeking an artist who can artfully depict Corn Hill’s unique cultural heritage and unparalleled spirit,” said Andie Kopf, 2025 Corn Hill Arts Festival Chair.

The Corn Hill Neighbors Association’s Poster Artist Committee aims to find an artist who can create an original poster to commemorate this year’s festival which is scheduled to take place July 12 and 13, 2025. The ideal design will encapsulate the diversity, ambiance, and energy of the historic Corn Hill neighborhood, and capture the festival’s vibrancy in a visually appealing and exciting manner. 

Requirements for Submissions: 

• Originality: Artwork must be original work and respect copyright laws. 
• Creativity: Ability to translate the festival’s theme into an eye-catching visual. 
• Conceptualization: The design should convey the spirit and activities of Corn Hill. 
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in graphic design and high-quality digital art creation. Timeliness: Adherence to the submission and final design delivery timelines. 
• Collaboration: Willingness to work with our team to align with our vision. 

Submission Details: 

Artists interested in this opportunity should submit: 

• A portfolio of previous artwork, highlighting any experience in designing posters for events or festivals. 
• A detailed concept proposal for the festival poster, including ideas, themes, or inspirations. 

Evaluation and Selection:

Proposals will be assessed by the festival’s Poster Art Committee based on artistic talent, creativity, alignment with the festival’s theme, and previous relevant experience. Final selection involves an interview and in-person presentation, after which the chosen artist will be granted the rights to the selected poster. Benefits for the Selected Artist: 

• Join the ranks of prominent artists who have created Corn Hill Festival posters. 
• Be honored at the poster unveiling event in early June 2025. 
• Receive a $1,000 honorarium, paid in two increments. 
• Enjoy a complimentary booth next to the merchandise tent at the festival to meet and greet festival goers and sign posters and merchandise.
• Have your design featured on official festival merchandise, including t-shirts, hats, and posters, providing widespread visibility.
• Leave a lasting mark on a treasured community tradition. 

Key Timelines: 

• RFP Release Date: February 3, 2025
• Proposal Submission Deadline: March 15, 2025 
• Artist Selection: March 31, 2025 
• Final Design Delivery: May 1, 2025

The Corn Hill Arts Festival to identify the artist that will help bring the 2025 festival to life. Interested artists must submit their proposals by March 15, 2025 to the Corn Hill Neighbors Association (chna@cornhill.org), attention Poster Artist Committee. 

About the Corn Hill Arts Festival 

The Corn Hill Arts Festival is a vibrant celebration of art, music, and community spirit that takes place annually in Rochester, NY. Boasting over 300 artists and diverse musical performances across four stages, the Festival offers a unique and captivating experience for art lovers and families alike. This beloved tradition fosters artistic excellence, strengthens community bonds, and enriches the cultural landscape of Rochester. 

About Corn Hill Neighbors Association 

The Corn Hill Neighbors Association is a volunteer organization based in the Historic Corn Hill Neighborhood that is dedicated to preserving and promoting the unique historical character and beauty of the neighborhood through community events and initiatives.

CHAF – Poster Artist Details 2024

Artist Bio

My name is Jessica Nikic I am a contemporary realist/abstract painter. Trying to emanate joy and peace through vibrant spirits of my portraiture subjects, places I traveled, all things nostalgic and abstractions of energy. I have studied fine arts at Monroe Community College in Rochester, NY, and then onto The University of the Art in Philadelphia, PA. Later received a job sailing the seven seas working as an Art Gallery director selling artwork from Rembrandt to Peter Max. Now living in Rochester, NY.

I am a full time artist painting commissions, live paintings for events and weddings, guest portraits, murals, and exhibitions around the city. From ROCO to The Yards to coffee shops (Fuego, Melo) to painting live for charities such as Make A Wish Foundation.

My work is inspired by the places people live their lives, and ways in which they choose to live. Through bold color, movement, and the occasional moody brush stroke, I share my story of creating marks and compositions that express daily life, the tales of those in my life, and the lives of those around me.

Poster Inspiration

Corn Hill has always been more than just a neighborhood. It’s a community. As a young girl growing up my Aunt Nanci lived in Corn Hill. It was always so much fun spending time with her and her eclectic friends at the Gazebo for live music in the summertime. She would throw these extravagant Christmas parties at one of the older homes in Corn Hill, every Christmas were she raised money for charities. Corn Hill was always a magical place especially at night during the holiday season.

The Cornhill festival was an inspiration to me as a young girl. It made me realize that being an artist was something that was possible. As much as adults told me it wasn’t a practical career choice. The Corn Hill festival gave me hope. I would dream about having a booth every year. Fast forward some years. After art school and working on cruise ships selling art. I settled back home to find my parents moving into the Corn Hill community. I was ecstatic! Not only do I get to relive those childhood memories but now my kids get to as well. I FINALLY decided it’s time to get a booth! I was accepted and very much cried from happiness.

Read the Press Release.

Introduction: The Corn Hill Neighbors Association is excited to announce our upcoming arts festival to be held on July 13 & 14, 2024, and is seeking a talented and creative artist to design a captivating poster that represents the spirit and essence of the Corn Hill neighborhood. This Request for Proposal (RFP) is to identify an artist who possesses the skills and vision to create a unique poster that will engage our festival goers and the Corn Hill community.

Project Overview: The selected artist will be responsible for designing a festival poster that encapsulates the diversity, ambiance, and energy of Corn Hill. The design should be visually appealing, captivating, and capable of generating interest and excitement among festival goers.

Requirements: 1. Originality: The artwork must be original, unique, and not infringe upon any copyright or intellectual property rights. 2. Creativity: The artist should showcase their creativity and ability to translate the festival’s theme into an eye-catching visual representation. 3. Conceptualization: The poster should effectively convey Corn Hill’s spirit, activities, and overall vibe through its design. 4. Technical Skills: The artist should demonstrate proficiency in graphic design and possess the ability to create high-quality digital artwork. 5. Timeliness: The selected artist will be required to deliver the final design within the specified timeframe. 6. Collaboration: The artist should be open to collaborating with our team to ensure the poster aligns with our vision and requirements.

Interested artists are requested to submit a proposal including the following: 1. Introduction of themselves and portfolio: A portfolio showcasing previous artwork, particularly any relevant experience designing posters for events or festivals 2. Concept Proposal: A detailed concept proposal outlining the artist’s vision for the festival poster, including any specific ideas, themes, or inspirations.

Evaluation Criteria: Proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria: 1. Artistic talent and creativity. 2. Alignment with the Corn Hill neighborhood’s festival’s theme and the Corn Hill community. 3. Demonstrated ability to create visually appealing designs. 4. Previous experience designing posters for events or festivals.

Selection Process: After evaluating the proposals, artists will be invited for an interview and presentation to discuss their concept and clarify any questions. The final artist will be chosen based on their proposal, portfolio, and interview/presentation. All rights to the selected poster will belong to the Corn Hill Neighbors Association.

The Selected Artist Will:

• Join other prominent artists who have produced a Corn Hill Festival artist, such as Liz Durand, Bob Markowski, Barbara Ford, and last year’s artist, Brian O’Neill.
• Be honored at the poster unveiling early in June 2024 (date to be determined).
• Receive $1000 – in two, $500 increments – timeframe to be determined.
• Be provided a both, free of charge, located next to the merchandise tent, in the heart of the arts festival. The artist must be available to sign posters each day of the festival.

Timelines

• RFP Release Date:  Friday, November 24, 2023
• Proposal Submission Deadline: February 9, 2024
• Artist Selection: by March 1, 2024
• Final Design Delivery: April 12, 2024

Please submit your proposal and supporting materials by February 9, 2024 to Corn Hill Neighbors Association, 133 South Fitzhugh Street, Rochester, NY, 14608 or to chna@cornhill.org, attention Joyce Steel.

We look forward to reviewing submissions and partnering with a talented artist to create a memorable festival poster. If you have any questions or require further information, please do not hesitate to contact us. Thank you for your interest in being a part of our 2024 festival!

CLICK HERE to Download the RFP PDF

Click to Download Larger Version

Rochester, NY, June 9, 2023 –The Corn Hill Neighbors Association is thrilled to kick off the countdown to the 2023 Corn Hill Arts Festival, presented by ESL Federal Credit Union, with the official unveiling of the commemorative festival poster at Flight Wine Bar in Corn Hill Landing. The poster, designed by renowned artist and Corn Hill resident,  Brian O’Neill, encapsulates the spirit of the festival and will be featured on festival merchandise.

Bill Belecz, 2023 Corn Hill Arts Festival Chairperson, expressed the neighborhood-wide excitement, stating, “The unveiling of the poster marks a significant milestone in the annual festival preparation process. Not only is it a celebration of our neighborhood and a continuation of a more than 50-year-old tradition, but it also serves as a reminder for all of our festival volunteers and supporters that our beloved festival is only a month away.”

O’Neill, known for his classic oil realism and bold abstract painting, and whose work has been exhibited globally, stated, “My goal with each painting is to infuse my passion for beauty in a language that can be read and felt by all people that view my work.” He added, “I believe in creating art that resonates with all viewers, striving for beauty and the highest level of craftsmanship.”

The ceremony not only included words from Belecz and O’Neill, but also featured remarks from Celeste Kier, Executive VP/Director, Marketing & Customer Experience of ESL Federal Credit Union; and Kevin Kelley, Manager of City Planning for the City of Rochester. Both organizations have been longtime supporters of the festival and both play a key role in making it a success. 

In addition to the poster unveiling, details about special events that will be featured at this year’s festival were also shared, these include::

• The 13th Annual Emerging Artist Expo, presented by MVP Health Care: A platform for up-and-coming artists to display their work and share their inspirations.
• The 2nd Annual ROC the Arts at Corn Hill, supported by Henrietta Restaurant Supply: Showcasing the talent of performers from various performing arts groups throughout Rochester and the Finger Lakes region.
• The 1st Annual Corn Hill, Corn Hole Tournament, presented by Tin Cup Social and organized by 585 Cornhole: Promises fun and the chance to win cash prizes.
• The return of the Annual Fairy Houses, Presented by Roc Star Realtors of Howard Hanna and supported by KidsOutAndAbout and The Strong National Museum of Play: A fan-favorite family event that encourages creativity in all ages.
• The 2nd Annual Corn Hill 5K, presented by Fleet Feet: Offers a scenic morning run along the Genesee Riverway Trail.

The Corn Hill Arts Festival is set to take place on July 8 and 9, 2023, and in addition to those special events will feature over 350 original artists, 15 music performances, food trucks, and two beer and wine gardens. The festival will run from 10am to 6pm on Saturday and 10am to 5pm on Sunday, rain or shine, in the historic Corn Hill Neighborhood. Admission is free.

To view and download the 2023 Corn Hill Arts Festival Poster Art, click here.