Arts Council of Princeton Presents Virtual Conversation with Artist Léni Paquet-Morante and Timothy M. Andrews

Virtual Conversation with Artist Léni Paquet-Morante

WHEN: Tuesday, May 12, at 7 p.m.
WHERE: via Zoom; Please visit artscouncilofprinceton.org to link into the conversation

As we navigate through these unprecedented times, the Arts Council of Princeton remains committed to its mission of “Building Community through the Arts” by providing engaging virtual programming. Due to the Covid-19 crisis, the Arts Council has transitioned to online classes and workshops, as we launch a series of artist talks.  (Left: photo by Ricardo Barros)

Contemporary landscape painter Léni Paquet-Morante will join Timothy M. Andrews, art collector and major supporter of the Arts Council of Princeton’s Artist-in-Residence program, for a virtual conversation.

Paquet-Morante will discuss her influences and artistic journey, her process, what life is like for a working artist during the pandemic, and her plans for the future. She will also give viewers a virtual tour of her studio. Q & A will follow the conversation.

Léni Paquet-Morante is a landscape painter whose paintings address issues of isolation, privacy, and boundaries through visual metaphor found in landscape forms. “These paintings center on bodies of water and the intimacies they convey despite and/or because of the forces and landforms that define them. Rivers, tide, tide pools, estuaries, and intriguing topography are constants. My practice includes making drawings which are small and deliberate, and paintings which are large and expressionistically rendered.” (Above: Drawing shallow water at Veteran's Park in Hamilton_

Born in Canada, Paquet-Morante grew up in Maryland, coming to study sculpture at the Johnson Atelier at age 21. She has lived in Mercer County since 1986 with her husband, sculptor G. Frederick Morante. She has exhibited at the Arts Council of Princeton and is a regular at Communiversity, the annual town-and-gown event coordinated by the Arts Council of Princeton. Her works can be found in permanent collections such as Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Mercer County Cultural and Heritage Commission, Johnson & Johnson Corporate Headquarters, Bristol Myers-Squibb as well as in private collections across the country. (Above: Leni Paquet-Morante at her studio easel with "Film, Shadows, and Sky on Water" 48x48" acrylic on canvas)

This program is a part of the Arts Council’s apART Together initiative, created to provide virtual programming in order to stay creative and connected during this time while we are all physically distancing. For a full list of projects and programs, visit artscouncilofprinceton.org.

About the Arts Council of Princeton

The Arts Council of Princeton, founded in 1967, fulfills its mission of Building Community through the Arts by presenting a wide range of programs including community arts outreach, exhibitions, performances, free community cultural events, and studio-based classes and workshops in a wide range of media. Housed in the landmark Paul Robeson Center for the Arts, Arts Council of Princeton programs are designed to be high-quality, engaging, affordable and accessible for the diverse population of the greater Princeton region.  Visit artscouncilofprinceton.org for more information.

The Arts Council of Princeton presents a virtual talk with artist Marlon Davila and Timothy Andrews

In Conversation with Marlon Davila and Timothy Andrews

WHEN: Tuesday, April 28, starting at 7:00 p.m. 
WHERE: artscouncilofprinceton.org to link into the conversation via Zoom.

Marlon Davila was the ACP’s Anne Reeves Artist-in-Residence in the Fall of 2019 and the lead artist behind the Journey mural at Lupita’s Groceries at Leigh Avenue and John Street in Princeton. Davila will be interviewed by Timothy M. Andrews, art collector and major supporter of the Artist-in-Residence program.

This talk is an opportunity to hear about Davila's inspiration and artistic journey, the process of mural painting, working as an artist-in-residence, and what he is working on now. The conversation will conclude with the opportunity to ask questions of both Marlon and/or Tim.

Marlon Davila is a first generation Guatemalan who was born and raised in Princeton. Through his art, Davila aims to open viewers’ eyes to other perspectives on life and the world that we all share. His artwork is influenced by nature, romanticism, surrealism, and the use of symbols as representation of an idea. His bold use of color is a direct link to his Mayan ancestry as is his knowledge of fashion, culture and above all, love.

“I remember being a kid that loved coloring books and drawing. Years later, I still have that same passion for art, and I am creating a mural on this beautiful wall in my hometown on the exact street where I lived for many years,” said Davila during his residency. “It’s incredibly meaningful for me to give back to my community and I am truly grateful to the Arts Council of Princeton and its supporters for believing in me and for giving me this unique opportunity.

The Anne Reeves Artist-in-Residence Program, named after ACP Founding Director, was established by the Arts Council of Princeton in 2009 to offer artists the opportunity to conceptualize and create new works while providing the community with creative interaction with working artists in all disciplines.

This program is a part of the Arts Council’s apART Together initiative, created to provide virtual programming in order to stay creative and connected during this time while we are all physically distancing. For a full list of projects and programs, visit artscouncilofprinceton.org.

About the Arts Council of Princeton

The Arts Council of Princeton, founded in 1967, fulfills its mission of Building Community through the Arts by presenting a wide range of programs including community arts outreach, exhibitions, performances, free community cultural events, and studio-based classes and workshops in a wide range of media. Housed in the landmark Paul Robeson Center for the Arts, Arts Council of Princeton programs are designed to be high-quality, engaging, affordable and accessible for the diverse population of the greater Princeton region.  Visit artscouncilofprinceton.org for more information.

Arts Council of Princeton’s Fall 2019 Artist-in-Residence Marlon Davila Creates New Mural at John Street and Leigh Avenue

The Arts Council of Princeton (ACP) announces that work is now underway on the mural entitled Journey, located at John Street and Leigh Avenue. Lead artist, Marlon Davila, who grew up in the Witherspoon-Jackson neighborhood is the ACP’s Fall 2019 Anne Reeves Artist-in-Residence, bringing his art to life on the exterior wall of La Lupita Groceries.

The Arts Council invites the public to attend a community reveal party on Saturday, November 9 ,from 10-11am for a formal dedication by Mayor Liz Lempert and light refreshments.

Marlon Davila (left) is a first generation Guatemalan who was born and raised in Princeton. He studied Fashion at the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale, Florida and continued his education in Fine Arts and painting at Mercer County Community College (MCCC). Davila graduated from MCCC with honors and was awarded the Jack Harris Memorial Scholarship for his excellence in Fine Arts. In May, 2017, he attended Art Escape Italy, a workshop led by Hendrik Uldalen which further honed his love of painting. He recently completed the Artists Teaching Art program at the Arts Council of Princeton and is now teaches art for children at the Paul Robeson Center for the Arts.

Davila’s main goal is for his art is to open people’s eyes to other perspectives on life and the world that we all share. His artwork is influenced by nature, romanticism, surrealism, and the use of symbols as representation of an idea. His bold use of color is a direct link to his Mayan ancestry as is his knowledge of fashion, culture and above all, love.

“I remember being a kid that loved coloring books and drawing. Years later, I still have that same passion for art, and I am creating a mural on this beautiful wall in my hometown on the exact street where I lived for many years,” said Marlon Davila. “It’s incredibly meaningful for me to give back to my community and I am truly grateful to the Arts Council of Princeton and its supporters for believing in me and for giving me this unique opportunity.”

This project would not be possible without the support of Timothy M. Andrews, a longtime friend and supporter of the Arts Council of Princeton, who has generously underwritten the Anne Reeves Artist-in-Residence program for the next three years.

Andrews’ generosity will enable two artists every year to each produce a work of art - mural, a sculpture, whatever they envision. According to Andrews, “At least three of the six will be conceived for a specific public space and created after we gain neighborhood approvals and raise additional funds to pay for the preparation, supplies, and installation.”  The Arts Council of Princeton also acknowledges mural sponsors Kucker Haney Paint Co., Studio Hillier, Jerry’s Artarama Retail, and Smith Ace Hardware Princeton for their support of public art in Princeton.

After an initial meeting with the Historic Preservation Commission regarding the proposal for Davila’s mural, the ACP hosted a neighborhood meeting as well as attending two additional Witherspoon-Jackson  Neighborhood Association meetings, to reach a positive consensus for the project. The Witherspoon-Jackson neighborhood is a diverse and thriving place which honors its past as well as planning and ‘listening’ for a vibrant future where all are included.

The Anne Reeves Artist-in-Residence Program, named after ACP Founding Director, was established by the Arts Council in 2009 to offer artists the opportunity to conceptualize and create new works while providing the community with creative interaction with working artists in all disciplines.

For more information about the Journey mural or and the Anne Reeves Artist-in-Residence program, visit artscouncilofprinceton.org.

The Arts Council of Princeton, founded in 1967, is a non-profit organization with a mission of building community through the arts. Housed in the landmark Paul Robeson Center for the Arts, designed by architect Michael Graves, the ACP fulfills its mission by presenting a wide range of programs including exhibitions, performances, free community cultural events, and studio-based classes and workshops in a wide range of media. Arts Council of Princeton programs are designed to be high-quality, engaging, affordable and accessible for the diverse population of the greater Princeton region.

Arts Council of Princeton’s Annual Hometown Halloween Parade set for Friday, October 25, 5:15-6pm

Annual Hometown Halloween Parade

WHEN: Friday, October 25, 5:15-6pm
WHERE: Princeton, 5:15pm on Palmer Square Green for music; 5:45pm from Palmer Square to the Princeton Family YMCA
For more information, please visit artscouncilofprinceton.org or call 609.924.8777.

 The community is invited to meet at 5:15pm on Palmer Square Green for music by the Princeton University Marching Band before the parade makes its way through Downtown Princeton at 5:45pm from Palmer Square to the Princeton Family YMCA where the festivities will continue with live music, crafts and more! The Hometown Halloween Parade is supported by jaZams and McCarter Theatre Center. Admission is free.

The Arts Council of Princeton, founded in 1967, is a non-profit organization with a mission of Building Community through the Arts. Housed in the landmark Paul Robeson Center for the Arts, designed by architect Michael Graves, the ACP fulfills its mission by presenting a wide range of programs including exhibitions, performances, free community cultural events, and studio-based classes and workshops in a wide range of media. Arts Council of Princeton programs are designed to be high-quality, engaging, affordable and accessible for the diverse population of the greater Princeton region.

To learn more, visit artscouncilofprinceton.org.

Arts Council of Princeton and Eden Autism Partner to Increase Arts Accessibility

The Arts Council of Princeton (ACP) and Eden Autism are proud to announce a new joint program that brings hands-on art to adults with autism. The 12-week trial, which ran over the spring and summer of 2019, has been extended and will now meet weekly at the Art Council’s Paul Robeson Center the Arts in downtown Princeton. Approximately eight of Eden’s participants will take part in the program.

“Our mission of ‘Building Community through the Arts’ is strengthened with each new partnership,” noted ACP Interim Executive Director Jim Levine. “This partnership extends the joys of creativity and self-expression to adults who may not otherwise have this opportunity at home.”

Professional instructors lead participants through weekly hands-on classes.  Participants are joined by their support staff, who assist the teaching artist on staff.

“We're very fortunate to have forged a meaningful relationship with the Arts Council of Princeton. Our partnership not only allows our participants to learn new skills, but it shows the community how much individuals with autism can accomplish when they are given the support and opportunities to succeed,” says Michael Decker, President and CEO of Eden Autism Services. “The Arts Council’s staff are caring, professional instructors with a keen sense of the needs and abilities our participants bring to the class.”

“What I find most impressive about this program is that people with a disability who might not otherwise get the opportunity, are learning from professional teaching artists,” noted the mother of a one of the participants. “It’s so impressive what my son has achieved. He’s worked in painting, pottery, textiles, and really enjoys the chance to create.”

The new program, which began on September 9, is open to Eden’s participants.  Volunteers are always welcome. For more information, please visitartscouncilofprinceton.org or call 609.924.8777.

The Arts Council of Princeton, founded in 1967, is a non-profit organization with a mission of Building Community through the Arts. Housed in the landmark Paul Robeson Center for the Arts, designed by architect Michael Graves, the ACP fulfills its mission by presenting a wide range of programs including exhibitions, performances, free community cultural events, and studio-based classes and workshops in a wide range of media. Arts Council of Princeton programs are designed to be high-quality, engaging, affordable and accessible for the diverse population of the greater Princeton region.

The Arts Council of Princeton and Princeton Shopping Center present “An Evening with Bollywood”

An Evening with Bollywood
Dance performances, folk arts and crafts, and more

WHEN: Saturday, September 21, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m
WHERE: Princeton Shopping Center, 301 North Harrison Street, Princeton
ADMISSION: free

The Arts Council of Princeton and Princeton Shopping Center present An Evening With Bollywood, a free, family-friendly event celebrating Bollywood culture. In previous years, this event has attracted over a thousand people from local and surrounding communities.

From 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., enjoy folk arts and crafts, vendors, Mehndi henna tattoos, and more. Princeton Integral Yoga Community Center will lead free yoga drop-ins - bring your yoga mat! At 5:30, Uma Kapoor’s NachNation Dance Group will take the stage.

From 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., join us for a Bollywood Dance Party in the courtyard to the tunes of DJ Atresh. 

“An Evening with Bollywood is an opportunity for everyone to enjoy the sights and sounds of Bollywood,'' says event coordinator and choreographer Uma Kapoor, “Create crafts, shop a bit, and take in a NachNation dance show. All are welcome, so come and just have fun!"

Free, ample parking is available at the Shopping Center. For more information, please visit artscouncilofprinceton.org or call 609.924.8777.

The Arts Council of Princeton, founded in 1967, fulfills its mission of Building Community through the Arts by presenting a wide range of programs including community arts outreach, exhibitions, performances, free community cultural events, and studio-based classes and workshops in a wide range of media. Housed in the landmark Paul Robeson Center for the Arts, Arts Council of Princeton programs are designed to be high-quality, engaging, affordable and accessible for the diverse population of the greater Princeton region. Visit artscouncilofprinceton.org for more information.

For more than 60 years, Princeton Shopping Center has been a true community gathering place. Its unique design boasts 40 local and national retailers, and a two-acre landscaped courtyard that is warmly referred to by community members as “the living room of Princeton.” Anchored by local and family owned McCaffrey’s Market, the center not only serves as a staple for goods, but is jointly used as a neighborhood events space. Partnering with local organizations, the center remains a vibrant meeting place for residents and visitors throughout the year.