Eastman House Council

About the Council

The annual gingerbread house exhibition "Sweet Creations" is a popular holiday tradition.

The Eastman House Council was founded in 1983 under the direction of Georgia Gosnell. The purpose of the Council was to raise funds to restore the home of Kodak founder George Eastman to the way it was when he resided there from 1905 to 1932.

Today the Council's mission is to support the activities and goals of George Eastman House International Museum of Photography and Film through voluntary services and fundraising.

Fundraising

The Eastman House Council has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars by creatively hosting events in conjunction with George Eastman House. Among the many events held, several are among the highlights of the year.

Kim Novak, 2003 George Eastman Award recipient, photographs her adoring fans.

The George Eastman Award gala is held in conjunction with the presentation of the George Eastman Award, given since 1955 for Distinguished Contribution to the Art of Film. Among those who have received this award are Gregory Peck, Lauren Bacall, Martin Scorsese, Audrey Hepburn, Jimmy Stewart, and Meryl Streep. 2003's celebrated recipient was Kim Novak.

Eastman House is alive with music with the summer Garden Vibes concerts.

Eastman House is alive with music during the summer Garden Vibes concerts. The holidays are sweet and colorful with the annual gingerbread house exhibition "Sweet Creations." This event fills the mansion with the joys of the season amid the colorful and festive holiday decorations. Under the direction of Curator Kathy Connor, we invite the community to design and submit gingerbread houses for display and auction in the George Eastman House. More than 60 confection creations are on view each year, made by families, Scout troops, school groups, hobbyists, and professional bakers.

Membership

To join the Eastman House Council one must first be a member of George Eastman House. Next, you need to secure sponsorship from a current Council member. For information, please call (595) 271-3361 ext. 290. In addition to museum membership, benefits that Council members receive their own newsletter the Lobster Gazette and attend educational programs and guest lectures designed specifically for the membership.

The Council is a varied and interesting group. If you are willing to dedicate time to a valuable cause, you will gain experience and valuable relationships working with other talented individuals.