Palettes of Keuka

Penny Carlton • August 18, 2025

Palettes of Keuka -transcending mere public art

For a relaxing and enjoyable summer afternoon, a trip to Hammondsport, NY, is a must. Stroll through the village on a self-guided walk to appreciate the unique works of art displayed throughout. This enchanting initiative, inspired by former Hammondsport Central School teacher Helen Monroy in 2006, was introduced by the Hammondsport Chamber of Commerce as “Palettes of Keuka” and has grown into a cherished summer tradition.


From the beginning, the founders aimed to honor artists by choosing a painter’s palette as the canvas for their creations. Artists are selected through a juried process, after which the local talents get to work, executing their creation on a large wooden palette. The artists' skill levels vary widely, ranging from experienced professionals to emerging talents, including students from Keuka College. Their inspiration stems from the stunning Keuka Lake, with each artwork reflecting the area's natural beauty, rich history, and local flavor, all serving as a testament to the spirit of Keuka.


Over the years, artists have creatively explored the potential of the palette, often incorporating its thumb-hole into their designs in innovative ways. It’s always a thrill to witness the artistic journeys they embark upon each year.


In the early summer, colorful palettes are placed around Hammondsport in front of local businesses. Visitors can pick up a complimentary map and puzzle sheet from the Chamber of Commerce or participating establishments. Each palette reveals a “secret letter” hidden within a word jumble clue. If you solve the puzzle, you'll be entered for a chance to win one of three $50 gift cards.


Palettes of Keuka is more than just a display of public art; it’s a lively, interactive experience that integrates art into daily life and spaces. The entire Hammondsport community takes pride in this event and delights in showcasing local artists. It encourages both residents and visitors to explore Hammondsport in a fun and engaging manner.


As summer comes to an end in late August, all palettes are auctioned off live in the village square of Pultney Park. A percentage of the sale of each palette goes to the respective artist – all of whom who make this event possible. The Chamber of

Commerce has consistently aimed to designate a portion of the auction proceeds to fund scholarships for local high school seniors pursuing artistic endeavors. Students from the communities surrounding Keuka Lake, including Hammondsport, Penn Yan, and Prattsburgh Central Schools, are eligible to apply for these scholarships. That is also a juried process. The remainder of the monies are used to cover event costs.


The 2025 Palettes of Keuka live auction is scheduled for Saturday, August 30, 2025, at 1:00 PM, taking place in Pulteney Park (also referred to as the village square) in Hammondsport. If you're planning to attend or participate—either as a bidder or spectator— mark your calendars!


Kenneth Corey, a former president of the Hammondsport Chamber, leads a small band of dedicated volunteers who have organized the 2025 show. He will once again take on the role of emcee for the auction. “I provide insights about each artist. I guess you could say I’m the schmoozer,” he remarks. He represents one of the vibrant and cherished traditions of the auction, along with popular local auctioneer Steve Muller.


If you’re a local resident or planning a visit this summer, be sure to stop by and immerse yourself in the art, tackle the puzzle, and engage with the community spirit. As you relish the artwork along the art trail, make sure to take advantage of everything Hammondsport has to offer! Enjoy a delicious meal, savor some wine, visit a brewery or distillery, or explore the unique shops. It promises to be an experience you won’t soon forget!


Visit them on FB



By Penny Carlton September 10, 2025
Glenn Curtiss Museum Presents Wings & Wheels “Wheels on the Ground, Wings in the Sky”
By Penny Carlton September 9, 2025
Kass' Kettle: Fundraisers, Special Events & The Windmill
By Penny Carlton September 8, 2025
Mother - Daughter Duo Scoops & Blooms
By Penny Carlton September 5, 2025
Listen to the echoes of Keuka.
By Penny Carlton September 4, 2025
It wasn't the story I intended to write...
By Penny Carlton September 3, 2025
Meet the Meredyth - Nurturer of Wellness. For decades, the Lake Street Plaza in Penn Yan has greeted visitors with open arms. Renowned for its historical importance and a vibrant mix of tenants, including Lake Street Plaza Theatres, locals affectionately refer to it simply as "the plaza." Currently, it is experiencing a revitalization, reflecting a burgeoning trend of local investment in community growth and its pivotal role in the Penn Yan area. Fresh roots have been planted, and new beginnings are taking hold. Perhaps one of the most exciting new developments at The Lake Street Plaza came early this summer when Dr. Meredyth McMichael turned her vision into reality. The Green Doctor Farmers Market opened in the front parking lot of the plaza featuring local vendors, who all have a deep connection to the soil. The Green Doctor Farmers Market offers a diverse selection, including locally cultivated produce, bouquets of vivid hues, and delicious baked goods crafted from ingredients sourced within the community. During the week, Dr. Meredyth is a chiropractor and nutritionist, a beautiful and vibrant woman who has a passion for her role as an ambassador for health and wellness. Her commitment to helping you live your healthiest life derived from her own health journey. She understands not everyone is the same and helps you find the programs that fit your lifestyle. Dr. Meredyth also hosts a podcast, “Mindful Moments with Meredyth.” She says, “It’s so easy to get confused and overwhelmed with all the information about health circulating the internet today. During my Mindful Moments I discuss current health trends and my opinions on them! As always, I encourage my viewers to take what resonates, leave what doesn’t and start living a healthier life.” Want a weekly serving of nutrition, chiropractic and other healthy information delivered to your inbox? Take a moment to check out her website and sign up for her weekly newsletter, The Healthy Scoop! At home Meredyth and her husband are proud backyard gardeners. From the contentment of setting tender seedlings into the rich Keuka soil to joy of the harvest, she understands the value of the land that will soon feed the body. Active in the Yates County Farm Bureau, she embraces the history of agriculture like an old friend with a warm embrace. Why The Green Doctor Farmers Market? It all started as a thought that crossed her mind while she was at the gym in the plaza a year ago. Like all things dear to one's heart, that idea began to flourish. Her objective was to establish an environment that fosters community engagement, engaging both vendors and patrons who visit and appreciate the diverse selection of products available. She expresses that one of the most rewarding aspects of The Green Doctor Farmers Market is witnessing vendors forge meaningful connections, reminiscent of traditional communities where life unfolded at a more leisurely pace, allowing neighbors to cultivate strong relationships that often spanned generations. Meredyth shared, "One of the flower vendors is a dear woman who has devoted years to her passion for growing flowers. She has formed a bond with a young woman just starting her own journey in floriculture. Their friendship has blossomed beyond the farmers market, where they have exchanged petals of wisdom and nurtured a camaraderie rooted in their shared love for flowers." She added, “the sense of community developing among the vendors is rooted in mutual respect and a sincere desire to support one another's growth. And who knows, if not for The Green Doctor Farmers Market, their paths might have never intersected.” With about six weeks left in the 2026 season at The Green Doctor Farmers Market, they warmly welcome new vendors to join them. Managed by Dr. Meredyth, the market operates with a unique philosophy. Vendor spot fees are set at just $10.00, and there is no obligation to participate for the entire season. This flexible approach is designed to meet the diverse needs of vendors throughout the summer and fall months around Keuka. If you have a product you’d like to share with the community, sign up here . The Green Doctor Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 8 AM to noon, with the final market occurring on October 11th. If you’re seeking a delightful and relaxing way to spend your Saturday morning, I highly recommend visiting The Green Doctor Farmers Market at the Lake Street Plaza. You’ll leave not only with a bag full of wholesome treats, but with a deep sense of connection to Keuka and its community. The roots of Keuka whisper - generational roots embracing and nurturing new roots. Learn more about Meredyth
By Penny Carlton September 2, 2025
Soapmaker with a pen - Hutton Farm Soaps and More
By Penny Carlton September 1, 2025
Small Town Roots. Big Hearted Dreams.
By Penny Carlton August 29, 2025
Friday Flashback!
By Penny Carlton August 28, 2025
Where the Bison Roam ... Mud Creek Bison Ranch
Show More