Buffalo Art Movement (BAM!)

Buffalo Art Movement (BAM!) is a non-profit organization that supports both established and emerging artists in Western New York. BAM! Is unique because we are an art space that serves as a collaborative platform for artists, patrons, and students. Our space is free from commercial, political, and religious bias, and new ideas are encouraged. Local artists can thrive and create art that reaches beyond WNY's borders. Originating as an art collection hobby, Buffalo Art Movement was founded by Dr. Francisco J. Hernandez-Ilizaliturri, affectionately known as Paco. Paco's collection, built over many years, celebrates the talents of WNY artists and has led him to be invited as a special guest worldwide. Other boards Paco currently sits on include the Burchfield Penney Arts Center board as trustee and as a BAM board member. Dr. Ilizaliturri is the director of lymphoma Research and professor of Oncology at The Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center. The BAM was born! With Paco's passion for the arts, he created this space to support local artists and invite them to express their creativity and craft ideas that they will share with the world.

The Buffalo Art Movement gallery is highly regarded, with most reviewers praising the friendly atmosphere and clean space. Many delighted patrons mentioned the impressive collection's variety and beautiful and meaningful experience, emphasizing that it supports local artists. Additionally, visitors appreciate the storytime event for kids, led collectively by its staff, particularly an artist's presence, which allows audiences to understand the crafts and backstory. The artist being present also adds value as the audience is given a chance to further interact, with some of their work is available for purchase. The venue's adaptability to almost any event also received praise and with the current protection measures in place, like observing CDC guidelines for COVID-19, the climate feels safe compared to the outside world. The layout and ambience are also factors that cannot go unnoticed, as many reviewers enjoyed the personalised feel, making the BAM a favourite spot for both gallery visitors and staff. Most patrons plan to return, and they frequently tout the establishment as among the best in town for its community orientation and artist relationship.