Founder of Artisan Works Louis Perticone of Rochester, New York, has sadly passed away. He died after a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by his beloved family on Monday, July 1, 2024. His passing was confirmed through a heartfelt post that reads, “We are saddened to learn of the passing of Artisan Works Founder Louis Perticone. Louis was a friend and a giant in the art world. He hosted our Art Loves Jazz events for many years, and always supported the mission of Jazz90.1.”
Louis Perticone, the visionary founder of Artisan Works, has long been a beacon of creativity and joy in the Rochester community. Known for his infectious enthusiasm and boundless imagination, Perticone transformed a once-industrial space into a vibrant wedding venue and cultural hub that continues to inspire and delight all who visit. Artisan Works, established by Perticone in the early 2000s, is a testament to his creative genius. The venue is a unique blend of art gallery, museum, and event space, housing a vast collection of artwork and eclectic artifacts. Each corner of Artisan Works tells a story, meticulously curated by Perticone, whose passion for art and history is evident in every detail.
Perticone’s jovial personality is as much a part of Artisan Works as the art itself. Friends, family, and colleagues often describe him as a larger-than-life character, always ready with a hearty laugh and a captivating story. His ability to connect with people from all walks of life has made Artisan Works not just a venue but a community gathering place where creativity and camaraderie flourish.
Perticone’s journey began with a simple yet profound belief: that art should be accessible to everyone. This belief led him to create Artisan Works, a place where people can experience art in an interactive and immersive environment. From hosting weddings and corporate events to offering art classes and exhibitions, Artisan Works under Perticone’s guidance has become a cornerstone of the Rochester arts scene.
His innovative approach to art and events has garnered widespread acclaim. Couples who choose to celebrate their weddings at Artisan Works often rave about the unique atmosphere and personalized touch that Perticone and his team provide. The venue’s eclectic décor and ever-changing exhibits ensure that no two events are ever the same, reflecting Perticone’s commitment to originality and excellence. Beyond his professional achievements, Perticone was deeply committed to giving back to the community.
Perticone’s philanthropic efforts were well-known throughout Rochester. He regularly organized charity events at Artisan Works, raising funds for various causes close to his heart. His generosity extended to local artists, whom he supported by providing a platform for them to showcase their work. Many artists credit Perticone with giving them their first big break, a testament to his unwavering support for the arts community.
As news of Perticone’s passing spread, tributes began pouring in from all corners of the community. Colleagues and friends remembered him as a true visionary, someone whose passion for art and community knew no bounds. “Louis was a pioneer,” said one colleague. “He saw potential where others saw empty space. He created a haven for artists and art lovers alike, and his legacy will live on through Artisan Works and the countless lives he touched.”
Perticone’s family also paid tribute to the man they knew as a loving father and husband. “Louis was our rock,” said his wife. “He was always there for us, no matter what. His love for his family was boundless, and he taught us the importance of following our passions and giving back to the community. We will miss him dearly, but we take comfort in knowing that his spirit will continue to inspire us and everyone who knew him.”
In the days following his death, Artisan Works remained open to the public, with many visitors coming to pay their respects and celebrate Perticone’s life and legacy. The venue, filled with Perticone’s carefully curated artwork and artifacts, served as a poignant reminder of his vision and dedication. “Walking through Artisan Works, you can feel Louis’s presence,” said one visitor. “Every piece of art, every corner of this place, reflects his passion and his love for art. It’s a beautiful tribute to an incredible man.”
As the community mourned the loss of Louis Perticone, plans were underway to honor his legacy in a more permanent way. Discussions included the possibility of renaming a section of Artisan Works in his honor or creating a scholarship fund for aspiring artists. “Louis’s impact on the arts community was immeasurable,” said a board member of Artisan Works. “We want to ensure that his legacy continues to inspire future generations of artists and art lovers. Establishing a scholarship fund would be a fitting tribute to his dedication to nurturing young talent.”
Perticone’s influence extended far beyond Rochester. His work at Artisan Works attracted visitors from across the country, and his reputation as a visionary in the arts community was widely recognized. He was often invited to speak at conferences and art events, where he shared his insights and experiences with others in the field. His unique approach to art and community engagement served as a model for similar initiatives in other cities.
The loss of Louis Perticone is felt deeply by all who knew him, but his legacy lives on through the vibrant, creative community he helped build. Artisan Works stands as a testament to his vision and passion, a place where art and community come together in a celebration of creativity and connection. As his family, friends, and colleagues continue to mourn his passing, they also celebrate the incredible impact he had on their lives and the lasting legacy he leaves behind.
In the coming weeks, Artisan Works plans to host a public memorial service to honor Louis Perticone’s life and legacy. The event will feature performances by local musicians, art displays, and speeches from those who knew and loved him. “We want to celebrate Louis’s life in a way that reflects his passion for art and community,” said an event organizer. “It will be a chance for everyone who knew him to come together and remember the incredible person he was.”
As the Rochester community continues to grapple with the loss of one of its most beloved figures, the outpouring of love and support serves as a testament to Louis Perticone’s lasting impact. His vision, passion, and dedication have left an indelible mark on the arts community and beyond. While he may no longer be with us, his spirit lives on through the vibrant, creative space he created and the countless lives he touched along the way.
