MAPLEWOOD, NJ — SeniorStudio, an arts program for area senior citizens, just completed its spring semester with two classes — 25 students total. Now in its third year with sponsorship by the Maplewood Parks & Recreation Department, SeniorStudio has served more than 100 students in that time, most of whom had never painted before. This program, which has progressed from a start-up project to four classes each year, includes 16 hours of art classes, leading to the production of a quality final artwork.
This spring, under the guidance of Lorena Vera, arts educator and accomplished professional artist, each student created a large, acrylic landscape painting of their own creation as their final project. Maplewood Memorial Library Director of Programming Joanne Beckerich has selected these paintings to be featured as the August exhibit in the library’s monthly display of local artists. A Music & Art reception will be Saturday, Aug. 25, at 3 p.m. at the Main Library, 51 Baker St.
SeniorStudio morning and afternoon classes will continue in the fall, beginning Sept. 17, at Maplewood DeHart Community Center. Details on course descriptions and registration information will be available later in the summer through the Maplewood Senior Center. New students who have never painted are encouraged to sign up.
Photos Courtesy of Dan Kaslow