Exploring the Arts at The Friedman JCC

This fall, the Friedman Jewish Community Center invites the community to embrace creativity, reflection, and connection through its Exploring the Arts series. Featuring two enriching Art Appreciation- Art History lecture series’ a lineup of soulful Paint ‘n Sip workshops led by Artist, Nina Davidowitz,  whose warm, engaging teaching style makes art accessible and inspiring for all.  The series offers something for everyone—from curious beginners to seasoned art lovers.

Next Up:  Paint n Sip: Sunday November 2… Scroll down for details! 

PLUS: We’re developing more classes and experiences—like stained glass, weaving, creative writing, poetry, musical performances, and a wide range of educational arts programs—all designed to enrich and energize the cultural life of our community.

“These programs are designed to inspire, connect, and uplift. Whether you’re learning about ancient cave paintings or setting intentions through collage, you’ll find a welcoming space to explore your creativity.”

Jane Messinger, Friedman JCC President

The Modern World (1898-1970)

Mondays, 6:15–7:45 PM | Sept. 8–Dec. 1

We’re excited to continue our Monday night Art Appreciation class from where we left off in June. In The Modern World we will finish up the Expressionist and Cubist periods of art in Europe; then head on over to the famous Armory Art Show of 1913 in New York City, when American artists were first introduced to these avant-garde concepts. We will focus mostly on the American art scene from this point onward, into the 1970s. Kandinsky, Klee, Picasso, Kahlo, Dali, Magritte, Sargent, O’Keeffe, Pollock, Warhol, and Rockwell are just some of the artists covered in this fascinating 12-week session! (We suggest that those students who are not too familiar with art or art history should join our Ancient Beginnings class prior to taking this class.)

This is a 12-week class: October 6, 13, 20, 27, November 3, 10, 17 , 24, December 1.

Payment and enrollment options:

Full session: $170 ($150 for JCC members)

Half sessions: $85 ($75 for members)

Drop-in: $15 per class

Fall Paint ‘n Sip Workshops:

Klimt’s “Tree of Live” -Sun., Nov. 2, 11am – 1 pm

Siegel’s “Moonrise”- Fri.  Dec 5

Join us for these fun evenings of painting and “sipping” (feel free to bring your favorite beverage!) as we create

On Sunday, Nov. 2 we will create our own unique versions of artist Gustave Klimt’s “Tree of Life”. For this project, we’ll be using acrylic paints in the lovely Fall colors of orange, yellow, and amber, with a. Few colorful details. We’ll also be adding a bit of sparkle with gold paint and glitter glue, as Kilimt would have liked!

No experience is necessary…follow along with me, or work at your own pace. Either way, we’ll have fun painting those many golden swirls in the Tree of Life!

Friday evening, December 5, we will paint our own unique versions of “Moonrise” by color-rich artist Suzanne Siegel. As we mix a variety of velvety blue, purple, and peach tones. The outlines of this landscape will be pre-drawn onto the canvas so we have plenty of time to “play”, and no time to stress out!

No experience in necessary…everyone can complete this project!  All supplies are included.

Cost: $45 per person ($40 for JCC members)

All supplies included

If you’d like to be added to our email list exclusively for announcements and notifications about our EXPLORING THE ARTS classes

please email frontdesk@nepajca.org or call 570-824-4646.

From the Artist

“I’m excited to be leading this series of art classes and workshops at the Friedman Jewish Community Center. As an artist and teacher with many years of experience, I believe in the power of Art to uplift, heal and energize the soul. I look forward to sharing my passion for the arts with you and hope these classes will spark your own creative journey!

Feel free to email me if you have any further questions.”

 ~ Nina