Page 71 - 2024 Southern NJ Vacationer

objects of beauty using hand-building and wheel-throwing methods. Be fascinated in the Flamework Studio as you watch artists use heat, gravity, and specialized tools to manipulate colorful, thin glass rods into beads, marbles, and miniature forms over a flaming torch.
All three Artist Studios (Glass, Pottery, and Flamework) are excellent incubators of ideas for artists and visitors alike, as you can engage with each working artist to learn about the materials and tools, scientific properties, history, and the social forces that shape their art. There is even a “Make-Your-Own” experience program available, providing hands-on involvement in creating a glass or clay object of your choice with expert guidance from a WheatonArts teaching artist.
If you’re interested in discovering international perspectives of people whose creativity has helped shape our country’s cultural wealth, then you will want to follow the path to the Down Jersey Folklife Center! Cultural groups from the community are highlighted each year in the Folklife Center, showcasing the richly diverse populations of South Jersey and connecting generations of
the human spirit. In 2024, the Folklife Center is focusing on the cultural heritage of the region’s West African communities through multi-faceted programming, including a major exhibition titled Ceremonies in Circles. This exhibit will showcase traditional masks, costumes, and ceremonial objects related to special rituals and community celebrations of West African peoples. Additional educational activities, artist residencies, and performances related to the exhibit will be scheduled throughout the year.
Walking up to WheatonArts three museum stores, you are in for yet another treat with an exceptional shopping experience not seen for miles around. Inside the General Store, you will find unexpected treasures, unique everyday items with a whimsical twist, and their famously popular candy counter with old childhood sweets. You can even play a quarter to hear a tune from the antique JP Seeburg Player Piano! Next, at the A.G. Paperweight Shop, explore handcrafted traditional and contemporary glass paperweights from world-renowned artists such as Paul Stankard, Mayauel Ward, John Deacons, and Caithness Glass. From there, you can
slip into the Gallery of Fine Craft to discover one-of-a-kind contemporary sculpture, fine art in glass, ceramics, wood, metal, mixed media, and a broad selection of unique glass jewelry. Browse collections of stylish scarves, clothing, and handbags as well. The shopping is even guilt-free as purchases support WheatonArts educational arts programming and individual artists.
As if that wasn’t enough, WheatonArts hosts a one-mile looping nature trail through its 45-acre campus with pollinating plants, rain gardens, and interpretive signage. In any given month, you can find a creative class, workshop, performance, and popular weekend event on the grounds, such as the annual Festival of Fine Craft in October. It’s a place well deserving of a visit, especially if you find yourself in need of some creative inspiration. Make it a day trip to experience one of WheatonArts’ special events or as a regular stop on your way to or from the shore. Either way, you’ll likely be satisfied and ready to return for more! WheatonArts is open seasonally, April through December. Learn more and start planning your visit at www.wheatonarts.org l
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