Art lovers love New York State according to a poll of AmericanStyle magazine readers. When asked to list their favorite arts destinations according to city population, readers ranked New York City as the #1 arts destination when it comes to large cities. Buffalo came in as the #1 arts destination for mid-size cities. Corning was ranked number three of the Top 25 Small Cities and Towns when it comes to popular arts destinations (small cities are defined as having a population under 100,000). Corning follows Santa Fe, New Mexico and Asheville, North Carolina. The article appears in the June 2006 issue of the nationally-distributed magazine now on newsstands (or online at www.americanstyle.com).

Readers based their selections on the richness and variety of visual arts sites, activities and events. Although Corning has been on the list of the "Top 25 Cities for Arts" for several years running, the jump from #22 on last year's list of small cities to #3 this year is nothing short of impressive! Corning is obviously gaining in recognition and popularity in the national arts community. Strong competitors in the small cities category include Charleston, SC; Sedona, AZ; Taos, NM, and Carmel, CA to name a few.

AmericanStyle magazine is a national publication with a distribution of 185,000
According to the magazine's reader profile, 91% of its readers plan vacations to include art events and gallery visits and 96% of its readers buy art while on vacation. "We're ready and anxious to welcome AmericanStyle readers to the Corning area," said Peggy Coleman, Executive Director of the Steuben County Conference & Visitors Bureau. "The fact that New York State was prominently featured in the article will undoubtedly prompt art lovers to explore across the state. Additionally, the fact that Corning is situated 'on the way' when traveling between Buffalo and New York City, means we're in a great position to see some real benefit from this national exposure. We've always known that Corning is a great arts destination, but national recognition as the #3 arts destination in the US? We are very proud of the city we call home!"

Contact: Pat White
Steuben County Conference & Visitors Bureau
607-936-6544