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: Andy Warhol Paint n Sip: Oct 10. 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

Ancient Beginnings

Wednesdays, 6:15–7:45 PM | Sept. 10–Dec. 17

Our first Art Appreciation class was so successful, we’ve decided to offer it again from the beginning! Join us as we take a journey through time, discovering the many ways that artists “create”, and how their work conveys a unique perspective on the human experience. We will start with the amazing Prehistoric cave art from 30,000 years ago; then will continue up through the classical Greek and Roman periods; and finish with the Medieval period. (Class will continue with The Renaissance and Beyond in January 2026.)

There are no textbooks or tests for this class, and no prior experience with art is necessary…just come and enjoy!

This is a 12-week class: October 8, 15, 22, 29, November 5, 12, * , 26, December 3, 10, 17.

No classes on: October 1, and November 19.

Payment and enrollment options:

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

Half sessions: $85 ($75 for members)

Drop-in: $15 per class

PURCHASE CLASS

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

PURCHASE CLASS

Paint ‘n Sip Workshop: Andy Warhol “Flowers”

Friday, October 10, 2025, 5:30-7:30 pm

Join us for this fun evening of painting and “sipping” (feel free to bring your favorite beverage!) as we create our own unique versions of Andy Warhol’s “Flowers” series. This famous series of prints from 1964 was based on Warhol’s photos of flowers. Over the years, he produced many color variations of this theme. We’ll be using acrylic paints and stencils to achieve a similar look, and participants will have time to complete two separate paintings. The fun will be in choosing your special colors.

No experience in necessary…everyone can complete this project! All supplies are included. (Please sign up by the evening of Oct. 8th so we have time to get enough supplies for class.

Featured Workshop: 
Andy Warhol Flowers
Date: Friday, Oct. 10 | 5:30 PM–7:30 PM

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

All supplies included

Additional Paint ‘n Sip Dates:

  • November: Sunday, Nov. 2
  • December: Friday, Dec. 5
PURCHASE CLASS

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