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Special Workshops for Hands-on Demos Slated in October

Paper and steel are so much a part of our everyday world we barely notice them anymore. A new exhibit at the Barron Arts Center shows these elements in their primal state – and in various states of heightened artistic imagination.

“Perceptions in Paper and Steel” opens Thursday, Sept. 23, from 7:30-9:30 p.m. at the Barron Arts Center, 582 Rahway Avenue, Woodbridge, and features the work of sculptor Glenn Murgacz and collage artist Vanessa Van Keuren , two local artists with national reputations for innovative, eye-catching artwork.

The exhibit is supported by a grant from Middlesex County Neighborhood Arts Consortia grant sponsored by the Woodbridge Township Cultural Arts Commission chaired by Dr. Dolores Capraro Gioffre with support from the Woodbridge Township Arts Council and Mayor Frank G. Pelzman.

“We are pleased to present an exhibit that celebrates the science of craftsmanship,” says Mayor Frank G. Pelzman . “Through much of the 19 th and early 20 th centuries, Woodbridge was renowned for its brick and tile-making and other industrial arts. These artists are continuing a tradition of indigenous craftwork that links past and present.”

Glenn Murgacz uses welded steel and copper to create relief and standing sculptures. His work adorns several public buildings in Central Jersey, most noticeably the front face of the Woodbridge Community Center that features four 150-pound reliefs of sports action figures. He also created the signature sculpture for the National Polo Museum and Hall of Fame in Lake Worth, Florida.

Vanessa Van Keuren's colorful collages begin with paper found on streets, at flea markets and estate sales – discarded items she transforms into thought-provoking artistic statements reminiscent of early 20 th century collage masters Georges Braque, Kurt Schwitters and the early Picasso.

For gallery-goers interested in observing the artistic process, each artist will present a free demonstration showing their basic technique: Glenn Murgacz on October 3, 2-4 p.m., Vanessa Van Keuren on October 10, 2- 4 p.m.

Both artists will also conduct intensive, hands-on workshop tutorials in their art, Glenn Murgacz on October 9, 12-4 p.m., Vanessa Van Keuren on October 16, 12-4 p.m. These workshops have limited openings and a fee of $20; all materials will be provided. Call 732-634-0413 for information/registration.

“Perceptions in Paper and Steel” is at the Barron Arts Center through October 31. Regular gallery hours are Monday-Friday 11 a.m.- 4 p.m. and Sundays 2-4 p.m. The Center is closed Saturdays and holidays.

The “Perceptions in Paper and Steel” exhibit and workshops are made possible by a grant from the Middlesex County Cultural & Heritage Commission/Board of Chosen Freeholders, through funding in part from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State, a Partner Agency of National Endowment for the Arts.