A new student-designed, 2D-inspired window installation is taking shape at 428 East Main Street, created by six middle school students as part of a pilot workshop led by North Country artist Liza Labarge Paige. The display will be unveiled by the end of the school year, replacing the winter installation that previously animated the storefront.
This project is part of The Creative Lounge, a new after-school initiative from The Thrive Project, with a full launch planned for September 2025. Designed to offer small-group, artist-led workshops for creative youth, the pilot invites students to reimagine a world that spans from the era of dinosaurs to a futuristic tomorrow.
With early release from school and transportation provided by the Malone Central School District, students are meeting weekly with the artist in a professional studio environment. Thanks to North Country Community College, they're using studio and garage space to paint and construct the installation-working with recycled props, including a repurposed golf cart as their time machine. The downtown window space has been generously donated by JCEO, allowing students to share their work publicly with the entire community.
This 2D-inspired installation reflects artist Liza Labarge Paige's signature style, transforming the storefront into an imaginative portal through time. Each session blends design principles with hands-on learning, encouraging collaboration, imagination, and community pride. Thanks to the middle school art teachers for helping connect creative students with this opportunity.
The pilot program is made possible with support from Youth Advocates and Adirondack for Kids, organizations committed to expanding access to the arts for local youth.
Watch over the next few weeks as the transformation unfolds-and keep an eye on Main Street for the big reveal before school wraps up in June.
About The Thrive Project:
Founded in 2022 as the nonprofit arm of the Downtown Artist Cellar, The Thrive Project advances inclusive arts education through youth programs, artist residencies, and public art. Thrive believes creativity builds confidence, community, and brighter futures for all. For more information contact: thrive@downtownartistcellar.com
