On any other day, Jenn and Andy’s is a quiet gallery and gift shop in Downtown Ithaca, but on Oct. 4 it became a living art exhibit, celebrating as a celebration of Latino Heritage month. Co-owner Andy Rizos said having live painting is a way to show a different stage of the artwork.

“It’s an experience where you can get a feel for the art and the process,” Rizos said. “I think it’s really important to understand people’s processes when they’re creating.”

This gallery was held in collaboration with the Latino Civic Association of Tompkins County as a celebration of Latino Heritage month, which goes from Sept 15 to Oct 15. The gallery included the Latino artists, Gabriela LeBaron, Jennifer Ospina, Pato Winkler, Ben Ortiz, Armando Santa Ana and Angel Hernandez. According to the 2010 Census, eight percent of Ithaca’s population is Hispanic or Latino.

This gallery was part of a series organized by the Downtown Ithaca Association on the first Friday of each month. Gallery Night is a monthly event where local businesses host art displays and invite the public to come and see. Wyllie Schwartz, Gallery Night coordinator said the event serves as an example of the culture in Ithaca.

“Gallery Night is a wonderful way for locals and tourists alike to experience the rich and diverse array of local talent,” Schwartz said. “Ithaca is the cultural engine of Upstate New York and Gallery Night is proof of this.”

In addition to the businesses involved, the event also includes “Art in the Ally,” a market style arrangement where several different artists set up stands to sell and display their work. Local artist, Jess Junko Beardslee said “Art in the Ally” gives her a chance to sell the clothing and jewelry she makes.

Gallery Night started in 1999,and provides local and regional artists with the chance to display their work.