Page 70 - 2025 Southern NJ Vacationer

CREATIVE ENTERTAINMENT,
hands-on experiences, shopping, and much more await! At WheatonArts and Cultural C e n t e r in Millville, Cumberland County, you will discover a vibrant arts non-profit campus with paved walkways leading visitors to the Museum of American Glass, Down Jersey Folklife Center, Glass Studio, Pottery Studio, museum stores, and much more. Since its conception in the 1970s, WheatonArts has evolved into a celebrated cultural destination and a vital hub for creativity and cultural diversity.
The comprehensive collection of the Museum of American Glass offers a stimulating journey through the history of American
glass, progressing from early bottles and flasks to bold contemporary art. Highlights include the world’s largest free-blown glass bottle, intricate paperweights by New Jersey master artist, Paul Stankard, and unique South Jersey whimsies. In 2025, the museum will unveil two exhibitions. The first, American Contemporary Glass: Selections from the Linda and Henry Wasserstein Collection, features almost 60 works by groundbreaking artists such as Harvey Littleton, Judith Schaechter, and Toots Zynsky. The second, redundancies, guest curator David Schnuckel explores “mishaps” from a maker’s perspective.
Bringing the history of South Jersey glassmaking to life in a reimagined version of the 1888 T.C. Wheaton Glass Factory, the Glass Studio is a place where you can watch skilled artists sculpt molten hot glass into breathtaking works of art, using various techniques, including glassblowing and mold pouring. Local and visiting artists push the boundaries of glassmaking with both traditional and experimental methods, and visitors are encouraged to ask questions and engage with the artists.
In addition to the Glass Studio, WheatonArts also features the Pottery Studio, where ceramic artists transform wet clay into functional and beautiful objects using hand-building and wheel-throwing methods. The Flamework Studio, on the other hand, highlights the art of manipulating colorful glass rods over a
torch, creating everything from beads to miniature sculptures.
All three Artist Studios – Glass, Pottery, and Flamework – offer interactive experiences. The Make-Your-Own program allows visitors to create their own glass or clay objects with expert guidance from WheatonArts teaching artists. These hands-on experiences provide a deeper understanding of the artistic process and offer a memorable way to connect with the creative community at WheatonArts.
For those seeking cultural enrichment, the Down Jersey Folklife Center is a must-see. This year, the center is focusing on a cross-cultural exploration of folk and traditional arts as associated with their ethnic, occupational, and regional versions through a major exhibition titled Communities and Cultures of Down Jersey. The Folklife Center also hosts a variety of educational activities, artist residencies, and performances throughout the year.
Take some time to walk the scenic one- mile nature trail, experience unique shopping at the two museum stores, come to any of the numerous events – like the Festival of Fine Craft in October, and enjoy a day filled with creative inspiration! l
Whether you’re visiting for a special event or making a regular stop on your way to the shore, WheatonArts offers a rich and rewarding experience. Open seasonally from April through December, learn more at www.wheatonarts.org
WHEATONARTS
South Jersey’s Hidden Gem
68 SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY VACATIONER