NEWS

Island Heights-based artist, Scott Oldt, stands in front if his art.

Creativity in Full Bloom: OCAG Celebrates Summer with July Member Show

OCAG kicked off its July Member Show with a vibrant and heartwarming opening reception this weekend. Our historic Victorian house on Chestnut Avenue buzzed with creative energy as we came together to celebrate local talent. This month’s exhibits showcase art from Toms River’s Intermediate and High School students and Island Heights-based artist Scott Oldt in the main galleries.

Brightly colored canvases fill the gallery walls, offering a glimpse into the imagination and skill of the next generation of Ocean County creatives. From expressive self-portraits to nature-inspired abstracts, the student work drew enthusiastic admiration. Oldt’s artwork is a vibrant reflection of his daily environment—especially the serene flow and subtle drama of the Toms River. His paintings reflect not only the physical grace of the waterways but also the calm and energy they offer to those who live alongside them.

Guests view Kathy Landmesser’ s unique sea glass creations in the Pop Up Gallery.

Adding to the charm of the event, longtime OCAG member, Kathy Landmesser, presented her latest collection of sea glass art. Each piece, made with locally sourced sea glass found along the Jersey Shore, told its own story of tide and time. The atmosphere was further enhanced by live music from student, Scotlan Norman, whose performance added soul and sophistication to the reception. His sounds echoed through the halls as visitors explored the artwork, creating an immersive experience that celebrated creativity in all its forms.

Scotlan Norman serenades the crowd.

The July Member Show runs through the end of the month, with rotating events and workshops scheduled weekly. As the summer unfolds, the OCAG continues to be a beacon for art, community, and inspiration.

43rd Annual Thomas Edison Film Festival

Lights, Camera, Action!

Film lovers, mark your calendars — the 43rd Annual Thomas Edison Film Festival is coming to OCAG this Saturday, July 12, 2025, and it promises a cinematic experience like no other.

From powerful narratives to striking visuals, this celebrated festival showcases innovative, independent short films from around the world.

Hosted at 22 Chestnut Avenue, Island Heights, NJ, the evening kicks off with a 6:30 PM reception, followed by the festival screening at 7:00 PM.

Tickets are only $25.00 — but seating is limited, so early purchase is a must!
Reserve your spot today HERE: https://www.ocartistsguild.org/event/43rd-thomas-edison–film-festival/

Make a Splash This Summer at the OCAG Kids Classes

Summer fun is starting at OCAG!

We are kicking off our July Children’s Summer Classes this week, offering young artists a chance to explore their imaginations through hands-on art projects in a vibrant and welcoming setting. Led by the enthusiastic and talented Miss Alison Amelchenko, this eight-week course has classes every Tuesday and Wednesday from 10:30am to 12:00pm or 1:00pm-2:30pm throughout the end of August.

Each session features a unique theme designed to spark curiosity and creativity:

7/8, 7/9 – Surfin’ Waves

7/15, 7/16 – So Many Seashells

7/22, 7/23 – Boardwalk Food and Fun

7/29, 7/30 – Sand Castles

8/5, 8/6 – Pirates and Mermaids

8/12, 8/13 – Sunglasses Imagery

8/19,8/20 – Boats in the Water

8/26, 8/27 – Lighthouse Silhouette

The program is open to children of all artistic levels, and no prior experience is necessary. Whether your child is a budding Picasso or just looking for a fun new summer activity, the OCAG is the perfect place to create, imagine, and shine. We look forward to seeing your children’s smiling faces all summer long!

Upcoming Classes, Events, and Workshops

Whether you’re a seasoned painter, budding illustrator, or a parent looking for enriching summer activities for your child, OCAG is your creative destination this July! With a full calendar of diverse and inspiring classes, there’s something for everyone at all skill levels to dive into this summer.

Oil and Watercolor
Explore classical technique with Oil Painting: Indirect Method with Michelle Dillon, meeting Monday evenings on July 7 and 28 from 6:00 to 8:30pm.

For watercolor enthusiasts, July offers three courses led by Leona Lavone:

“Unleashing Watercolor Potential” takes place Monday mornings (July 7, 14, 21, 28) from 9:30am to 12:00pm
“Beach Bliss Watercolor” runs Wednesdays (July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30) from 9:00am to 12:00pm, capturing the serenity of the Jersey Shore through soft washes and coastal color palettes.
“Seascapes in Watercolor”, an evening series held Wednesdays (July 16, 23, and 30) from 6:00 to 8:00pm, designed for artists looking to master ocean scenes.

Drawing Classes for Every Level
Figure drawing enthusiasts can enjoy two options this month:

Long Pose Figure Drawing on Tuesdays (July 1 and 15) from 7:00 to 9:00pm
Short Pose Figure Drawing on Saturday July 19 from 10:00am to 12:00pm
Portrait Drawing Workshops offered Sundays (July 6, 13, 20, 27) from 2:00 to 4:00pm.

Children’s Summer Classes
Back by popular demand, the Children’s Summer Classes are now in session! Held every Tuesday and Wednesday from 10:30am to 12:00pm or 1:00pm-2:30pm each class features a fun seasonal theme.

Join Us for a Plein Air Painting Day!

Looking for a fun and creative way to enjoy the summer sunshine? Grab your brushes and meet us Saturday, July 12 from 1–4pm for a Plein Air Painting Day in beautiful Island Heights!

Location: 22 Chestnut Ave, Island Heights
Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Suggested Donation: $10
Rain Date: July 26

Bring your own materials and enjoy a relaxing afternoon capturing the charm of this scenic riverside town. Whether you’re a seasoned painter or just want to try something new, this is a welcoming and casual event perfect for artists of all ages and skill levels.

Set up your easel under the sun, meet fellow creatives, and soak up the inspiration of nature and community. Paint the landscape, the historic homes, or whatever strikes your artistic spirit!

This event supports the mission of the OCAG to promote arts education and cultural enrichment in our community.

No registration required—just show up with your art supplies and join the fun!

Come make art al fresco—we can’t wait to paint with you!

Help Bring Barnegat Light’s History to Life Through Art!

Barnegat Light Museumis inviting local artists to be part of a unique and meaningful project that celebrates the rich history of Barnegat Light.

Artists are invited to submit 3–4 high-quality images of their work by July 14, 2025, for consideration. Selected artists will be assigned one of 22 historic homes or businesses in Barnegat Light to interpret and paint in their own style—but with clear architectural recognizability.

Project Details:

Medium: 4’x4′ exterior-grade plywood panel (provided), painted with weather-safe materials for long-term outdoor display.
Deadline for finished pieces: August 17, 2025
Drop-off location: Wildflowers Art Gallery, Barnegat Light, NJ
Exhibit Opening Reception: August 23, 2025, 4:00–6:00 PM at the Barnegat Light Historical Museum, featuring special guests including museum historians and community elders.

Perks for Participating Artists:

Artwork will be displayed outdoors annually in Barnegat Light from May–September.
Images of completed pieces will be featured in a printed booklet used for a self-guided historical tour of the town—artist name and contact info included.
All artists will receive a $20 paint supply card and the option to pick up prepped 4’x4′ panels at Wildflowers Gallery (July 16–20).
Cash prizes for 1st ($500), 2nd ($250), and 3rd ($100) place winners.

This is a powerful opportunity for artists to make their mark on the cultural and visual legacy of Barnegat Light. If you’re passionate about history, architecture, or storytelling through art, this project is for you.

SUBMISSION DEADLINE: July 14, 2025
Please email your work and any social media or website links to: studiowildflowersinthewoods@gmail.com

Let’s honor Barnegat Light’s past—with paint, passion, and purpose!

Ocean County 175th Anniversary Art Contest!

The Ocean County Cultural & Heritage Commission invites artists 18 years and older to participate in a special art contest commemorating Ocean County’s 175th Anniversary. Now’s your chance to showcase your talent and celebrate our community’s incredible milestone!

THEME:

“Ocean County at 175 Years is a Great Place to Be”
Submit a two-dimensional original artwork that reflects what makes Ocean County unique, beautiful, or meaningful to you.

IMPORTANT DETAILS:
Submission deadline: October 1, 2025

One image of artwork per artist – All work must be original

PRIZES:
1st Place: $500 gift card to Blick Art Materials

2nd Place: $300 Blick gift card

3rd Place: $150 Blick gift card

Selected artworks will be exhibited as part of the county’s 175th anniversary celebration!

HOW TO ENTER:
Visit the Ocean County Cultural & Heritage Commission’s website for full submission guidelines, entry form, and drop-off information: https://co.ocean.nj.us/frmRegContent.aspx?ID=ab0f3ccd-8127-48e5-b5bf-6343c6999094

Let’s celebrate 175 years of history, community, and creativity—submit your artwork today!