BRICK – Brick Township’s very own Laurelton Art Society marked 45 years, celebrating its history of local artists.
Decades ago, a small group of artists met at an art store, which was located on the former Laurelton Circle in 1979. Oil painter and instructor Felicia Nowicki and her daughter Joanne Zezula incorporated the group in 1980 as the Laurelton Art Society (LAS).
Trisha Monto Autore, the Society’s President, said the group had a dream to continue the heritage of Brick Township artists, which dates back to Clara Stroud Colvin and meeting of artists in her Herbertsville Road studio on September 18, 1939.
“Felicia’s small group of artists were dedicated to provide a means for those who share an interest in art to meet, share ideas and techniques, and promote a public interest in the visual arts as an artist or art appreciator,” Trisha said.
The Society originally met at Brick High School where they offered free monthly demonstrations of art in various mediums and workshops, which were open to the general public.
Norene Stanish-Kaplan places 4th in the nonprofessional category. The painting depicts her husband, Mike Kaplan and his band. Norene added herself to the painting. (Photo courtesy Trisha Monto Autore)
Now 45 years later, the organization continues to inspire, educate, and entertain a diverse audience in 2-D and 3-D visual arts with free monthly demonstrations. LAS meet the second Saturday of the month at the first Baptist Church of Laurelton Ivy Hall, 1832 Route 88 in Brick. The general meeting is at 1:30 p.m. followed by informative demonstrations from 2 to 4 p.m. The general public is encouraged to join September through June.
Every April, the Society hosts their “Festival of Art,” a members-only juried exhibit held at the Brick Library. The month-long celebration offers free watercolor workshops taught by professional instructors. The festival then concludes with a meet the artist reception and awards ceremony.
“This year’s exhibit was an electric mix of mediums, styles, and themes. Featured were abstracts, land- and seascapes, florals, portraits, and photography,” Trisha said. “Our 45th celebration began at our May 3 reception. This was well attended by family, friends, members and the general public enjoying great food, conversation, and a great art.”
This year’s winners received ribbons and framed certificates celebrating the Society’s 45th year.
Professional:
1st place – Melinda Saminsky, “Pavarotti and the Ghost of Mozart”
2nd place – Valerie Morone, “Golden Canopy”
3rd place – Diane Eleneski, “Hawking”
4th place – Robert D’Imperio, “Discord”
Nonprofessional:
1st place – Roy Egeland, “Henes Oya, Norway”
2nd place – Lynda Schmid, “Lady Jane”
3rd place – Karen Wachter, “Into the Woods”
4th place – Norene Stanish-Kaplan, “Jazz Sweet”
Trisha expressed her excitement to see many nonmembers who usually paint privately now join and enter exhibits after attending the Society’s workshops.
“It’s gratifying for me as president to witness these newer members grow in their abilities after receiving some guidance and encouragement. Several of them are now winning ribbons,” Trisha said.
Winners of this year’s “Festival of Art” showcase their art. (Photo courtesy Trisha Monto Autore)
Trisha stated that her goal as president is to continue expanding the organization’s boundaries.
“There is a lot of talent in this organization, professional and nonprofessional. Yes, we are smaller than other art organizations, but our ratio of participation is higher and our demonstrations consistently receive high marks on our grant application,” Trisha said. “We offer a nurturing environment. Our professionals and non-professionals are always happy to offer advice and guidance in a nonjudgmental way. We want you to gain confidence in our ability to reach your full potential.”
“The program and activities we offer expose our members to new ideas and empower them to achieve greater creativity. That energy is then shared with the community at large through outreach programs, workshops, exhibits at local libraries in Ocean and Monmouth counties and sharing our meeting demonstrations with children and adults,” Trisha added.
For more information about the Laurelton Art Society, contact Trisha at auntp13@yahoo.com.
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