AUGUST GALLERY RECEPTION
August 3rd
1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Members Studio: “Under the Sea”
Gallery 1: Jessica Murga
Artists Bio:
Jessica Murga is a photographer and art educator who has been exploring various artistic mediums for over 20 years. Her work is inspired by her passions for travel, nature and creative expression, which she weaves together to craft unique and meaningful pieces. Jessica’s art reflects a deep curiosity about the world and a love for capturing beauty in unexpected places.
Artists Statement:
My work explores the intersection of traditional mediums combined with unconventional materials. By adding embroidery to unexpected surfaces such as photographs, I challenge the boundaries of both medium and meaning. This experimental approach allows me to blend texture and tactile detail creating new ways to see familiar objects.
Gallery 2: Deb Savo
Pop-Up Gallery: Leona Lavone
Artists Bio:
Leona Lavone – Artist & Instructor
“Art Keeps You Young at Heart”
With over 27 years of teaching experience (1999–2026), Leona Lavone is a passionate artist and instructor dedicated to sharing creativity, building confidence, and inspiring joy through art. Her teaching style is welcoming, encouraging, and rooted in the belief that art is for everyone—no matter your age or experience.
Leona teaches a wide range of mediums including watercolor, acrylics, and mixed media, and is known for her playful and expressive approach she calls her “Artsy Art Bucket.” Her classes, workshops, and demonstrations are offered throughout the year at art associations and community spaces, where she creates an uplifting environment for students to explore and grow.
Her artistic journey began long before teaching—spending over a decade immersing herself in watercolor workshops during the 1990s. In 1999, she began teaching at the Ocean County Artists Guild in Island Heights, New Jersey, where she continues to inspire students today.
In addition to teaching, Leona played a key role in coordinating Visiting Artist Workshops at the Guild. She managed all aspects of these events, from artist communication and scheduling to hosting and ensuring each workshop ran smoothly creating memorable experiences for both artists and participants. This hands-on involvement expanded her artistic knowledge and deepened her connection to the creative community.
In 2025, Leona founded the Joyful Art Collective, a heart-centered creative experience designed to bring relaxation, connection, and inspiration through art. Held every two months at the Ocean County Artists Guild, these gatherings blend simple art projects, gentle movement, and uplifting practices to help participants reconnect with creativity and joy in a welcoming, supportive environment.
Leona’s passion for sharing art extends beyond traditional classrooms. In 2014, she developed and led an Arts & Crafts program for seniors in a residential community, working with groups of 20–30 participants and discovering new ways to connect through creativity. She has also taught youth programs, working with students ages 5–18, and continues to embrace opportunities to teach across generations.
A published creator, Leona has designed a series of artist journals and planners available on Amazon, including:
· Note and Art Journal: Book for Writing and Sketching
· Thumbnail Journal: For Artists
· Weekly Planner – Yellow Pants
· Weekly Planner: Artsy
· Weekly Planner 2: My Schedule
Today, Leona continues to evolve as both an artist and educator—offering classes, workshops, and creative experiences that encourage others to relax, explore, and reconnect with their inner artist.
She proudly teaches students of all ages… from 5 to 100 (literally!).