On the first Friday in June, Albany Center Gallery returns to its roots with a FREE satellite exhibit at 17 Chapel Boutique Condominiums in Downtown Albany. ACG will be transforming the unfinished Schuyler Penthouse, suite 702, into a gallery space. Fifteen local artists will showcase their work in the former home building (1987-2001) of Albany’s premier gallery, which this year celebrates 35 years of promoting regional art.

For culinary enthusiasts, the Chefs on Parade celebrity cooking competition coincides with this event. It will feature the cuisine of renowned local chef Carmine Sprio of Carmine’s Brazillian Grill. As part of the CRBRA Parade of Homes, chef Carmine will prepare a variety of hors d’oeuvres right before your eyes. Proceeds from the event will benefit Albany Center Gallery as well as the American Cancer Society. Tickets ($10) include event admission, tour, food sampling, art exhibit and can be purchased the night of event at 17 Chapel.

To view the full Chefs on Parade event at 13 wonderful new homes throughout the Capital Region, you can purchase tickets at Albany Center Gallery for $35. For more information, please visit the Parade of Homes Website at www.CRBRA.com.

Or, if you prefer the visual arts over culinary arts – or would like to make it free evening – spend the rest of the evening in Albany for 1st Friday.

Exhibiting artists in the gallery include Exhibiting Artists include Bob Anderson, Sébastien Barré, David Brickman, Newbold Bohemia, Michael Cunningham, Dorothy Englander, Sarah Haze, Bill Jaeger, Sylvie Kantorovitz, Kathleen Loomis, Willie Marlowe, Timothy McMurray, Mike Millspaughski, Brian Mungavin, Thomasa Dwyer Nielsen, Deborah Regimbald, Larry Rosenmann, Terry Slade and Jacqueline Weaver.

The gallery will be open from 5 pm – 10 pm on Friday, June 1st 2012.

Facebook Event Page: http://www.facebook.com/events/410838438946515/