The Connections Warren Watchung Edition Sept/Oct/Nov

KIDZ CONNECTION PAGE 42 theconnectionsnj.com The Center for Contemporary Art in Bedminster, NJ is a true gem, in that it will not only win over visitors during their rst visit, but keep them coming back year-round. It’s why The Center has en- joyed more than 50 years of arts education through community outreach programs, ro- tating exhibitions, and art classes for all age groups. Located at 2020 Burnt Mills Road, The Center is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. It is closed Sun- days and during major holidays. Best of all, it is and always will be free to visit in order to be as accessible as possible to the sur- rounding community. Since 1970, The Center has been dedi- cated toward engaging the public through arts education. Its art classes include ceram- ics, painting, mixed media, and drawing for children and teens of any skill level. The Center used to be a schoolhouse, dating back to 1912, and the building is delight- fully boxy and aged. Its numerous art stu- dios are beautifully lit and calming just to stand inside, providing the perfect space to get creative. Not only do students learn the techniques to draw and paint, they en- gage with the principles of visual art and the styles and history behind the medium they are learning. Beginning September 2021, new pol- icies will be in effect. Before registering for a class/workshop please read them via this link https://ccabedminster.org/ create/policies/ Upcoming Exhibitions: October 1 – December 11, 2021 Chroma Terra - Curated by John Reinking The Center also hosts numerous free events throughout the year. People can even set up a birthday art party, where a guided art project is followed by cake and presents! “Hooray for May!” is always a popular and free annual event in which children and families make art projects at various stations and tour exhibitions. The Center is not just for children-- adults can sign up for art classes as well. Weekly studio art sessions allow artists to draw with- out instruction, and seasonal workshops have speci c topics. There are even adult birthday art parties for ages 21 and older where guests can paint or sculpt with a drink. Where The Center is truly special is through its numerous community outreach programs. The Center hosts fundraisers and art workshops for speci c demographics: adult cancer patients, children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, young people suffering from substance abuse or homelessness, and senior citizens at the Visiting Nurse Association of Somerset Hills Adult Day Center in Basking Ridge. The diverse and wide-reaching in uence of The Center is a testament to how art can be therapeutic, healing, and emotionally engaging. For both seasoned and budding artists, it is the perfect time to become a member and learn more about their exciting upcom- ing programs. Members enjoy numerous bene ts depending on the amount do- nated, and are sorted for individuals, stu- dents, seniors, and families making a joint contribution. Discounted classes and work- shops, discounts at area art supply stores and framers, and free studio time to draw and paint are just a few bene ts that new members can enjoy. Members even have the opportunity to enter original artwork to be displayed at one of The Center’s non-ju- ried rotating exhibitions! Visiting The Center for Contemporary Art most importantly shares the diverse and beautiful array of local art and local artists with the wider community. With its warm, welcoming, and engaging atmosphere, The Center proves that both art and oppor- tunities to learn how to create it can exist right in our hometowns. Truly, everyone can bene t from a quality arts education. The Center also hosts numerous free events throughout the year. People can even set up a birthday art party, where a guided art project is followed by cake and presents! “Hooray for May!” is always a popular and free annual event in which children and families make art projects at various stations and tour exhibitions. Since 1970, The Center has been dedicated toward engaging the public through arts education. Its art classes include ceramics, painting, mixed media, and drawing for children and teens of any skill level. THE CENTER FOR CONTEMPORARY ART IN BEDMINSTER, NJ PROVIDES QUALITY, LOCAL ARTS EDUCATION By Jaimie Yue