Joan Miro, Spanish abstract artist once said, ‘More important than a work of art itself is what it will sow…a painting can disappear. What counts is the seed.’
Port Jefferson Station has creative spirit, and its name is One River School of Art + Design. 5070 Nesconset Highway is the school’s home, where dedicated staff sew seeds of creativity with a strong helping of career guidance. With access to local working artists, students get their heads and hands engaged in artist talks, workshops and year round classes ops. The school is busy, and their gallery walls revolve around students and professionals four times a year.
The Director of Education, Julia La Marca, is also the One River School of Art + Design representative who participates with the Port Jefferson Station/Terryville Chamber of Commerce. While discussing a painting project at the Chamber’s Train Car Park, Julia explained their mission. “Transforming art education is our objective. We stand behind this mission by connecting students with those actively making a career in art. Students explore contemporary, cultural styles. We encourage their use of color and techniques by surrealists and minimalists. Students across a broad age range explore their abilities here. And it is nice to be able to exhibit their work,“she said.
The opening reception of the Spring Student Exhibition is June 25 at One River School of Art + Design. That exhibit is open weekdays through August from 10 AM to PM. Summer camps start at the end of June with options in painting, drawing, sculpture, digital art and more for kids and teens. There are adult workshops and ‘one off ‘ classes people can try out. These are on-going.
Julia is looking to make artistic improvements to the park benches by the train car. She said, “The Port Jefferson Station/Terryville Chamber of Commerce cultivates a community environment that allows us to connect with local business partners that help us all thrive.” That’s a brush-stroke of genius, Julia. We are happy to work together. Contact One River School of Art + Design for schedules and offerings for young and old, at 631.743.7001 and their website portjefferson.oneriverschool.com.
