New York State Council of the Arts announces SFLM as grantee

The Saunders Finger Lakes Museum (SFLM) is proud to announce the receipt of a $1.8 million grant from the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA) to support the continued construction of the museum’s main exhibition hall. SFLM is among 134 recipients of NYSCA’s capital project funding, which totals more than $86 million statewide.

Dedicated to celebrating the vibrant cultures and diverse ecology of the Finger Lakes Region, SFLM is actively bringing its mission to life—even as construction progresses—through experiential programming and outdoor amenities including a natural playscape, an accessible kayak and canoe launch, and scenic wetlands trails.

The grant will further the development of a 15,000+ square foot facility designed to house immersive indoor exhibits that highlight the cultural and ecological significance of the region. The space will feature dynamic, interactive experiences for all ages, a flexible community room and traveling exhibit area—the Finger Lakes Story Lounge—available for special events, and an educational center that offers deeper engagement with the region’s history and heritage. Each area is thoughtfully designed for adaptability, inclusivity, and future growth.

The New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA) is committed to nurturing and advancing the arts, culture, and creativity throughout New York State. As part of its mission to support the continued recovery and growth of the arts sector, NYSCA will award over $161 million in FY 2026 to hundreds of artists and organizations across all 10 regions of the state. Established in 1960 by Governor Nelson Rockefeller and supported today by Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature, NYSCA plays a vital role in sustaining New York’s creative ecosystem through funding, leadership convenings, and professional development initiatives.