BRICK – Attention, artists, want-to-be-artists or anyone who appreciates art: there is a group in town who wants to build on their 44-year-long history of promoting public interest in the creative arts.
The Laurelton Art Society offers programs and activities that expose their membership – and the general public – to new ideas, outreach programs, exhibits and open meetings that feature art demonstrations.
Acting vice-president Patricia Monto Autore said there are award-winning artists in the society’s membership, which currently numbers about 50. Members are from various towns located in Ocean County and southern Monmouth County.
“We would love to have younger members join – high school students and people in their 20s,” she said. “We are looking to attract younger artists.”
On the second Saturday of each month (excluding July and August) the Art Society offers demonstrations from professional artists working in various mediums. The demonstrations are held from 2 – 4 p.m. at the First Baptist Church of Laurelton.
Recent artists include Arlene Newman, who led a workshop entitled “Oil Effects with Acrylics;” Maryann Goodwin, who led a workshop entitled “Watercolor with an Edge;” Derek Riddle, who hosted “Abstract Acrylic Pour;” Renee Leopardi who hosted “Soft Pastels;” Robert Stetz led a “Watercolor Workshop;” and the most recent demonstration was by Toms River artist Joseph Rogine, who gave a graphite (pencil) demonstration.
Rogine, who teaches classes at the Ocean County Artists’ Guild, started his March 9 program with the basics: how to set up your workspace, the best line of sight for drawing (right angle to your line of sight to avoid distortions), supplies and materials needed, the difference between types of paper and pencils, and much more.
While explaining the basics of drawing, Rogine said one draws with their shoulder and arm. “Hold your pencil the way a conductor holds a baton,” and then move in closer for fine details.
Art Society members could ask questions or move in closer for a better look.
Lakewood resident Kami Simpson said she has been a member of the Laurelton Art Society for about two years.
“I like the fellowship,” she said before Rogine’s demonstration. “I get to see the demonstrations and hear the artist explain things. I feel like I’m a beginner artist, so I find it fascinating.”
Art Society secretary/treasurer Ilene VanDuyne said the group wants to get people interested in art. She said the 501c(3) not for profit organization is funded by a $4,500 Ocean County Cultural Heritage Commission, which pays for the professional artists’ demonstrations.
The Art Society hosts an annual April Festival of Art at the Brick Branch of the Ocean County Library, which features a juried art show limited to members of the society. The show runs from April 1 until April 27, when there will be a takedown and reception from 12:30-3 p.m., which is open to the public.
They also hold exhibits at the Havens Homestead Museum, hosted by the Brick Township Historical Society, which runs from April through May.
Each July, members join the Garden Club of Brick for their annual Garden Tour and Tea at the Anstett Cultural Center, where members mount an outdoor exhibit.
Annual membership is $25, but the public is welcome to attend any of the Saturday demonstrations at no cost. Student membership is $5.
The demonstrations are held at the First Baptist Church of Laurelton, 1836 Route 88. Upcoming demonstrations include artists Vinnie Nardone in May, and Nancee Jo Luciano, an award-winning duck decoy carver, in June.
For more information, visit the Laurelton Art Society Facebook page, Laureltonart.com, or call 201 341-5849.
