Member Spotlight: The Joyful Art Collective – Light, Healing, and Connection Through Creativity

At OCAG, art has always been more than paint on a canvas, it’s a bridge between people, a balm for the spirit, and a celebration of community. Few embody that mission more beautifully than the inspiring women of the Joyful Art Collective — Leona Lavone, Suzanne Pulver, Susan Clayton, and Fran Williams.

The Joyful Art Collective began as an after-class conversation among four friends who discovered they shared the same vision: to use art as a source of healing and joy. Under Leona’s leadership, that vision blossomed into a thriving group offering meditative art experiences, watercolor explorations, and mixed-media workshops to uplift creators.

“The Joyful Art Collective was originally formed to bring light into difficult times,” said Leona. “Whether someone is facing loss, retirement, divorce, or loneliness, I wanted to create a space where creativity could offer comfort, connection, and joy.”

Leona Lavone

Leona, a lifelong artist and educator, had long dreamed of creating a space where people could leave their anxieties and worries behind for a few hours. For more than 25 years, she has served as an OCAG instructor, nurturing creativity and connection across generations. Her workshops range from watercolor meditations to guided sound journeys, and blend art, mindfulness, and community.

Through the Collective’s sessions, her dream has become a reality as participants often share that they leave feeling lighter, more centered, and connected not only to their art but to each other. She’s often joined by her beloved Shiloh Shepherd, Edsel, affectionately known as “The Duke of Edsel.” This 135-pound gentle giant often attends workshops at the Guild, greeting guests with soulful eyes and tail wags.

Susan Clayton

Among the group’s devoted members is Susan, whose background as a Licensed Professional Counselor and Developmental Psychologist enriches every session. Having worked with children and families across New Jersey and Pennsylvania, she brings a deep understanding of art’s transformative power. A lifelong creative, Susan expresses herself through painting, textiles, weaving, and music (she’s a cellist who has performed with orchestras from Philadelphia to Sicily).

Suzanne Pulver

For Suzanne, art has been a lifelong thread weaving through every stage of her journey. Drawn to creativity from an early age, she majored in art through high school and pursued Art Education in college. When school art programs began to disappear, Suzanne entered the business world, later balancing work and family. Introduced to OCAG by a friend, Suzanne joined as a student eight years ago and immediately found a welcoming community where she rediscovered her artistic voice. It was after one of those classes that the idea for the Joyful Art Collective was born.

Fran Williams

And then there’s Fran, whose blend of leadership, warmth, and creativity adds a grounding, generous spirit to the Collective. Her path began with a desire to teach, but when New York City paused its certification program, she shifted into a remarkable career as an executive in the fragrance and cosmetics industry. Even while navigating high-level corporate roles, Fran kept her passion for mentoring alive, most notably through 12 years as a Girl Scout leader, where she guided her troop through multiple awards and was honored as Outstanding Leader of the Year. After retiring, Fran finally gave herself permission to pursue painting, joining OCAG and discovering a community that reignited her creativity. Becoming part of the Joyful Art Collective felt natural because its a place where she could blend her love of crafting, teaching, encouragement, and connection.

Together, these ladies infuse each workshop with color, compassion, and creativity. From mandala-making to watercolor meditations, they remind us that art isn’t just about what we create, it’s about how we feel while creating it.

“I call them my Dream Team, and they truly are,” said Leona. “These brilliant, big-hearted women are the glitter in the glue of the Joyful Art Collective. They help me turn wild ideas into warm, welcoming workshops, and they do it with laughter, love, and a whole lot of magic. I couldn’t do it without them, and honestly, I wouldn’t want to. They’re the kind of people who make creativity contagious and kindness the default. Total rockstars.”

OCAG Media (OM) interviewed the Joyful Art Collective (JAC) for this article:

OM: What does “joy” mean to you as artists and as a collective? How do you translate that emotion into your workshops and creative process?

Leona Lavone (LL): To me, joy is grounded in gratitude — appreciating the chance to create and connect. I bring that into each workshop through thoughtful prompts, clear guidance, and a welcoming space where people feel encouraged to explore.

Suzanne Pulver (SP): Joy to me ,as an artist, is viewing the world around me in a plethora of color that makes me want to transfer it to my canvas. I often visualize scenes as paintings. I’m always joyful when I’m creating.

Fran Williams (FW): Joy is an emotional feeling that I get while creating my artwork. It brings a sense of peace and fulfillment to me. I would say that for the collective, I would wish to bring that to the participants that come to our sessions. It translates to the workshops by choosing activities and experiences that brings that feeling to ourselves so we can project it to the class.

Susan Clayton (SC): For me, “JOY” as an artist happens when I find myself lost in the process of being creative. Time, worry, and current events seem to slip away into space. I feel free and relaxed to just be surrounded by the process and the sounds of creativity. I love just looking around and observing smiles, movement, colors, and hearing laughter and voices connecting. It’s being lost in the moment in a very good and calming way.

OM: Each of you has such unique talents (art, psychology, education, music). How do your different experiences influence the way you design your classes and connect with participants?

LL: My background in art, education, and storytelling helps me create workshops that are both structured and emotionally engaging. I also collaborate with a close-knit team of creative women whose talents—like music, psychology, and lived experience—add depth and warmth. Together, we design spaces where people feel supported, inspired, and free to explore.

SP: My connections with the participants in our workshops happens as I often see myself in them as they express themselves verbally and creatively.

FW: The classes are designed to make people feel included in the process and to help them leave their baggage at the front door by delving into our own experiences and feelings that can we put into our art.

SC: For me, I can’t but help using my life experiences during our collective sessions. It’s simply a part of who I am, and I believe that’s true for each of us. That’s the beauty of the environment of the Joyful Arts Collective. It’s truly an environment that welcomes the individual for who they are, and for who they are not. It’s a place to simply just “be” and to celebrate that moment with others without fear of judgement or false expectation.

OM: Can you describe a moment when you saw art truly transform someone during one of your workshops? (A story or reflection that captures why you do what you do.)

LL: I once watched a participant arrive quietly, unsure and apologetic about “not being creative.” But through the gentle rhythm of the Joyful Art Workshop—layering color, sharing stories, and connecting with others—something shifted. By the end, they were smiling, proud of their work, and encouraging others. It reminded me that art opens doors. It builds confidence, connection, and community. That’s why I keep showing up—with gratitude—for every person who walks through the door.

SP: As a Collective, I feel we continue to grow with each workshop that we do. Responses from the participants help guide us in many directions and help us grow. I feel with each workshop we just get better and better.

FW: We hosted a crystal bowl ceremony and the response from the all the participants was an overwhelming sense of peace which is exactly what we were striving for.

SC: I have had so many experiences seeing people “discover” their talents and their joy during classes at the Guild. If I had a dime for each time I’ve heard someone say, “I can’t paint”, or ” I can’t do that”; only to realize after the pressure is lifted, and encouragement and instruction is offered; that they CAN create something that is unique and satisfying.

OM: What’s next for the Joyful Art Collective? Are there upcoming projects, collaborations, or new ideas you’re excited to bring to life in 2026?

LL: In 2026, I’m focusing on expanding the Joyful Art program—offering more workshops that blend creativity, emotional wellness, and community care. I’m working closely with my Dream Team to develop new formats, from seasonal series to pop-up events and collaborative fundraisers. The heart of the program stays the same: creating welcoming spaces where people feel inspired to explore, connect, and grow through art.

FW: It is always a surprise for our participants; that is part of the fun of the workshops!

SC: We discuss many things as a group. As for the unique central activity, Leona is the one who prepares the materials and the instruction for what will be done. She has the expertise in knowing what people would feel comfortable with. We also share ideas constantly with one another, often paring down grandiose plans (road trip to Sedona Arizona!) to ones that are more realistic and that can be done right here at the Guild. We each contribute our unique ideas and desires to share with the collective group; whether that be donuts, or snacks, or beverages, or relaxing tips. Also, at each JAC session we use feedback forms to see what the group participants would enjoy… or would not enjoy. We take the input from the participants with a lot of weight so that our efforts truly reflect a “collective” framework. In other words, it’s not just from our own appreciation, but rather an experience that can be joyful and positive for many. As for what our future plans are: We’ll just have to wait and see!!!!

OM: What does the Ocean County Artists Guild mean to you?

LL: The Ocean County Artists Guild has been a creative anchor in my life for over 25 years. During the six years my husband was ill—and after his passing—teaching there gave me something steady to hold onto. It offered structure, connection, and a reason to keep showing up with love, even when things felt heavy. That experience shaped the way I teach. I learned how powerful art can be—not just as a creative outlet, but as a source of healing, joy, and community. It’s what inspired me to create the Joyful Art program: a space where people can feel supported, expressive, and gently transformed through creativity.

SP: OCAG for me is community and family and a home where my creativity can grow and friendships are formed. It is a very important part of my life and I love bringing that awareness to others.

FW: The Guild means building friendships while participating in a warm and enriching environment.

SC: For me, the OCAG has been a place where the atmosphere of learning without criticism is very evident. I have taken several classes there with different teachers, and have found them to be welcoming and positive. Also, OCAG has been a literal safety net for me during the last years of my late husband Doug Clayton’s (also an OCAG member) life. I have found that many of the Guild members have similar life experiences and transitions (retirement, job loss, moving to a new community, loss of a spouse, aging) which seem to form a common thread that helps a “collective” understanding and acceptance form. This has been very true particularly in the Joyful Arts Collective meetings. Many common threads are woven into a fabric of acceptance and sense of “it’s going to be ok”.

“Thank you for featuring the Joyful Art Collective,” said Leona. “It’s an honor to share our story and keep growing this joyful, healing work together.”

OCAG is inviting our members to participate in our Bi-Annual Member’s Art Show, opening on February 1, 2026. Theme is America: 250 Years.

Pre-Registration is Required!

Deadline: December 20, 12–5 PM (You must pre-register to participate. Artwork collection will take place mid-January.)

Submission Fees

• 1 piece — $35

• 2 pieces — $45

Reception: Sunday, February 1 • 1:00–4:00 PM

Accepted Media

• Drawing, Oils, Watercolor, Acrylic, Mixed Media, Pastels, Sculpture, Relief & Reduction Prints

Photography is not permitted for this show.

Prizes Will Be Awarded In:

• Landscape / Interior, Portrait / Figure, Abstract / Experimental, Still-life / Floral, Animal / Wildlife

Call for Member Art for December and January
Theme: Deck the Halls

OCAG invites members to submit work for our festive December/January Member’s Show! Let your creativity shine as we “Deck the Halls” across all galleries for the winter season!

Receiving Dates: Wednesday & Thursday, December 3 & 4 from 1–4 PM
Entry Fee: $5 for 2 pieces

This show will be on display for two full months, making it one of our largest and most visible member exhibitions of the year. With no formal opening reception due to our Jingle & Mingle Holiday Market on Saturday, December 6, your artwork will fill all galleries with winter magic, creativity, and community spirit.

Join us on December 13th for a joyful day of color and texture at our Gelli Plate Workshop, taught by Tamara Woronczuk. Whether you’re brand new to gelli printing or are an experienced artist, this hands-on workshop is the perfect chance to explore vibrant layers and experiment with patterns.

Important OCAG Membership Update

Over the upcoming months, Susan Mauro, OCAG Membership Coordinator, will be reaching out directly (via email or phone) to all current members to verify and update their contact information. This outreach is an important step in ensuring that you continue to receive communications, event announcements, renewal reminders, and opportunities to participate in exhibitions, workshops, and community programs.

Please note:
All membership communication will come from membership@ocartistsguild.org or the OCAG phone number 732.270.3111. If you see an email from this address, it is a legitimate message from us. If you prefer, you are welcome to reach out to the same address with updates or questions about your membership status.

Not a Current Member? Thinking About Rejoining?

If your membership has lapsed or you haven’t been a member before, we’d love to welcome you (back!) to the Guild. You can renew and/or join and pay your membership online with a credit card, or contact membership@ocartistsguild.org and we’ll be happy to assist you with joining or renewing. A call to the Guild is also fine.

Thank you for helping us keep our community strong, vibrant, and connected. OCAG thrives because of the support and engagement of members like you.

Help Make the Holidays Shine at OCAG!

The holidays are here, and our Victorian Lady is ready to sparkle, but we need your help to make the magic happen! We’re calling on our wonderful members and friends to lend a hand during three upcoming holiday events. Whether you love to decorate, bake, or greet guests with a smile, there’s a perfect spot for you to join in!

Deck the Halls at the Guild

Saturday, November 29 | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Help us transform the Guild into a festive wonderland! We’ll be decorating the parlor, galleries, studio, and grounds.
Pizza lunch provided for all volunteers!
Sign up here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0F44A8AE2CA4FBC07-60304379-decorating#/

Jingle & Mingle Setup Day

Friday, December 5
Join the setup crew as we prepare for one of our most joyful annual events Jingle & Mingle Night!
Help decorate, arrange tables, and get the Guild ready for our holiday market celebration.
Sign up here:https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0F44A8AE2CA4FBC07-60304883-setting#/

Jingle & Mingle Holiday Craft & Artisan Market

Saturday, December 6 | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Be part of the holiday fun!

We need volunteers to help make this event a success.

Ways to help:
Donate baked goods for our bake sale
Sell raffle tickets
Supervise children’s crafts
Assist at the bake sale or food table
Serve as greeters at the doors
Lend a hand with cleanup after the event

Sign up here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0F44A8AE2CA4FBC07-60327422-jingle#/

Your time, creativity, and holiday spirit make all the difference. Thank you for helping us celebrate another magical season at the Guild!

Calling All Artists & Instructors!

Are you passionate about sharing your creative skills? OCAG is looking for artists, makers, and instructors to lead classes and workshops in the upcoming season! Whether you specialize in painting, drawing, printmaking, photography, fiber arts, or something totally unique, we’d love to hear from you.

We’re currently scheduling for January, February, and March, and we’re always open to fresh ideas that inspire our creative community. If you or someone you know would be a great fit to teach at OCAG, please reach out to Danielle at info@ocartistsguild.org to discuss your proposal. Let’s make 2026 a year filled with creativity, learning, and artistic connection!