BarronFest 2025 Fine Arts & Crafts Festival - VIRTUAL CATALOGUE
The Barron Arts Center Staff wishes to thank the following Woodbridge Township Departments and everyone for their help in making this year’s BarronFest a success:
Department of Public Safety
The Woodbridge Township Cultural Arts Commission
Township Administration
Department of Parks & Public Works
Department of Buildings and Grounds
Department of Recreation
Woodbridge Channels TV-35
Participating Artists
Barron Arts Center Volunteers and Friends and thanks to our public guests for attending BarronFest 2025.
The Woodbridge Township Cultural Arts Commission was established in 1977 to foster cultural activities in Woodbridge Township. The Commission supports a varied program, from concerts to art exhibits to poetry readings to lectures. Arts classes for children and adults are also offered.
The Center has been fortunate to receive grant monies from a variety of sources—the County, the State, the Freeholders and business supporters. The additional funding has allowed for continued programming as well as maintenance and restoration of the Barron building.
Along with the staff and the Commission, the Friends of the Arts, a volunteer group, assists in many ways. In addition to acting as hosts and hostesses for regular programs and receptions, the Friends help with mailings, fund raising and other areas where their help is needed. With the help of the Friends, the Barron Arts Center will continue to provide excellent cultural programs for the Woodbridge township community as well as for people from around the County and the State.
Commission Members
Dr. Dolores Capraro Gioffre, Chair
Jeffrey Cohen
Constance A. Elek, Treasurer
Carlo Fazio
Sonal Gadhavi
Joseph Messick
Antonia A. Pancel-Cipric
Kristen Petenko
Carol Rebovich
Ron Wyatt
Sonya Zarestky, Vice Chair
Raymond Zirpolo
Staff
Cynthia Knight, Director
Brandon Powell, Program Coordinator
George Birchak, Administrative Assistant
About the Barron Arts Center
Woodbridge is proud to have a building listed on the national Register of Historic Places. The Barron Library building, built in 1877 and located at 582 Rahway Avenue in Woodbridge Proper, now serves as a center for the arts for residents of Woodbridge Township and Central New Jersey. The beautiful Richardsonian Revival style building, with its stained-glass windows and clock tower, provides an intimate setting for a variety of arts activities. Musical performances in a variety of styles, a forum for poets, readers and audiences alike known as PoetsWednesday, and art exhibitions by nationally renowned artists and craftsmen, in addition to the work of notable New Jersey artists have graced the gallery of the Barron Arts Center. Recently, the building was made disabled accessible so now everyone can enjoy the programs, including the special exhibitions such as the annual model train display which serve to provide somethingofinteresttoallcommunitymembers.
With the support of the WoodbridgeTownshipCulturalArts Commissionandunderthedirection of Cynthia Knight, the Barron Arts Center offers programming to the public, free of charge. Patrons seeking opportunities to volunteer time and services can get involved with our "Friends of the Arts" volunteers, a support group for the Barron Arts Center. For further informationortobeonthemailing listforupcomingevents,pleasecall the staff of the center, weekdays from8:30am-4:30pmat732-6340413.
Gallery hours are Mon-Fri 11:00am-4:00pm, Sat 2:00pm-4:00pm, Sun 2:00pm-4:00pm Closed Holidays.
BarronFest 2025 MeetOur Artists!
The following pages are our BarronFest artists for 2025. Some of our artists chose to participate at our physical in-person event
Saturday Oct 11, 2025 ~ 12-4pm at Parker Press Park Woodbridge, NJ 07095
while others chose to participate virtually in our
VIRTUAL CATALOGUE
This is indicated on the top of each artist page.
Each page will feature samples of their work along with a short bio of the artist.
If you are interested in purchasing a piece from an artist, contact Information is on each page. There is also a clickable link if the artist has an online shop. If you have a custom piece in mind, many of the artists are available for commission. Availability for commission is also indicated on each page.
Elaine Rosenberg
Joseph Messick ~ Edgewood Studio
Chelsea Caracci
Kenneth Witkowski
Bob Novak
SARAI L. ARAIZA
APPEARING AT BARRONFEST 2025
“...theinterplayoflightandemotion...”
Sarai Araiza, a self-taught artist, began painting in 2019 driven by curiosity, quickly developing a deep passion for capturing the beauty in her surroundings through vibrant forms and colors. Working primarily with acrylic paints, she also embraces experimentation, incorporating oil pastels and watercolors into her dynamic creations. Her work reflects a keen eye for the interplay of light and emotion, transforming everyday moments into captivating visual stories.
ArtistContactInformation
ArtistName:SaraiL.Araiza
Artist’sMedium:Acrylics/OilPastels/Watercolors
Email:saraiaraiza@hotmail.com
Website:Instagram@sarailourdesaraiza
“...greatstyleispersonal...”
Ispecializeinhandmadepiecesthatblendcreativity,color,andcraftsmanshiptocreateeye-catchingdesignsyouwon’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re looking for a standout necklace, a whimsical pendant, or a conversation-starting accessory, every item is thoughtfully designed to be truly one of a kind. At Little Bit Of This Little Bit Of That Gifts, we believethatgreatstyleispersonal—andyourjewelryshouldbe,too.
FRANK BIRD
“...hefoundnewjoyinhisworkshop...”
ArtistName:FrankBird-“The
Frank Bird has always been a builder. After serving four years in the Air Force, he returned home to raise a family and build a career — running his own crating business for 33 years and working as a longshoreman. Retirement didn’t slow him down. Instead, he found new joy in his workshop, affectionately nicknamed “Frank’s Bird House”, where he creates handcrafted birdhouses, toys, and cutting boards. Known locally as “The Birdman of Carteret,” Frank has turned his lifelong work ethic and craftsmanship toward pieces that combine function, charm, and a touch of humor. His birdhouses are a particular favorite — a natural extension of his name and his creative spirit. What he values most, though, is the connection his work brings: staying active, meeting people, and making things that brighten lives and homes.
CYNTHIA BLUE
“Taking
picturesofnature,especiallyflowers,ismypassion.”
Presently, as a retired preschool teacher I now have the time to do what makes my soul happy, which is photography. Taking pictures of nature, especially flowers, is my passion. This includes creating memories while walking in the park, botanical gardens and mostly anywhere the beauty of nature is found. My submission includes photographsofflowersandcats,reflectingmylovefornature.
Ryan Brechmacher is a multidisciplinary artist and musician based in Trenton, New Jersey. Working across acrylics, watercolors, ink drawing, typewriter art, and intricate cut paper collages, he creates works that balance precision with imagination. His subjects range widely, yet they share a common thread of reverence and intensity: portraits of rock musicians, luminous studies of stained glass windows, the vast and rugged landscapes of the American Southwest, and architectural forms that evoke awe. Brechmacher’s visual art often reflects the same structural sensitivity that shapes his music. An accomplished pianist, composer, and songwriter, his musical background informs his sense of rhythm, layering, and harmony on the canvas. Each piece—whether a delicate watercolor or a meticulously cut collage—carries the pulse of both disciplines, revealing an artist attuned to the resonance between sound and image. Through his work, Brechmacher invites viewers to experience moments of stillness, power, and wonder—whetherinthesilentgeometryofacathedralwindowortherawenergyofarockperformance.
ArtistContactInformation
ArtistName:RyanBrechmacher
Artist’sMedium:Painting(Acrylic, Watercolor)
Drawing,PaperCollage
Email:rrbrech@gmail.com
Website: www.ryanbrechmacher.com
AvailableforCommissions
PricesAvailableUponRequest
JENNA BUFFETTA - B. BATHS
APPEARING AT BARRONFEST 2025
B.Baths is a woman owned business specializing in Small-Batch Handcrafted Luxury Bath Products Derived from Natural Ingredients. We use only the finest ingredients in our products. Our philosophy is to provide safe skin-soothing bath products that everyone in the family can enjoy. All products are cruelty-free, paraben-free,andformaldehyde-free.
“...onlythefinestingredients...”
ArtistContactInformation
ArtistName:JennaBuffetta
Monica is a Project Manager in the Telecommunications Industry but has been crafting for as long as she can remember.SheisthefounderofLiftand GlowYoga.MonicaisaRegisteredYoga InstructorandReikiMasterTeacher.Her jewelry is handmade with Love and InfusedwithReiki
ArtistContactInformation
ArtistName:MonicaCampbell
andGlow
CHELSEA CARACCI
“UNEARTH YOUR DESIRES JEWELRY”
APPEARING AT BARRONFEST 2025
My Name is Chelsea Caracci and I am a Jewelry Artist from New Jersey. I have been making Jewelry for fifteen years. The name of my business is called Unearth Your Desires. I create designs using mainly Gemstones and materials that come from the earth. I create many different styles of Jewelry including Beadwork, Copper Enamel, Fold Forming, Wire work, Resin, and silversmithing. My main focus is to concentrate on creating Silversmithing pieces in the future. I strive to create fine art through Jewelry. My Silversmithing pieces are unique and one of a kind. I choose to make only one of each design. My Jewelry is inspired by elements of nature. I focus on the healing properties of gemstones through my work. The gemstones that I put together are not just for aesthetic purposes but because they have a purpose. I have sold my Jewelry in local stores for over 10 years. I have done craft fairs and arts festivals for the same amount of time. I also design custom orders for my customers. I studied at Ducret school of Arts for Jewelry Design for many years. In the past I have done printmaking, encaustic, fluid painting, alcohol inks, bookmarks, key chains and greeting cards. I love to learn new ways to express myself through different mediums. ArtistContactInformation
“. . .inspired
Large Sterling Silver Blue topaz heart filigree pendant Copper filigree onyx and kyanite pendant
Sterling Silver oval Azurite and Malachite and Indian ruby tendril pendant.
Labradorite oval with Faceted peridot black spinel and onyx with sterling silver clasp.
Large Copper Peach Aventurine oval tendril pendant with hammered copper chain.
JEFF COHEN
“...awardwinningsculptorandpainter.”
ArtistContactInformation
ArtistName:JeffCohen
Artist’sMedium:Collage,Pastel, Acrylic,Ink
Email:jeffery_cohen@hotmail.com
Jeff Cohen is an award‐winning sculptor and painter. He earned a BA at Upsala College and did Masters work at New York University. As Art Director for a number of New Jersey newspapers, he received over thirty awards for illustration, design and layout from the New Jersey Press Association, the Society of Professional Journalists and the North Jersey Press Club. He maintains a studio in Sewaren, NJ, where he creates fine art that has been displayedinanumberofNewJersey,NewYork and Massachusetts galleries and exhibitions. A number of his pieces are owned by private collectors throughout the US, Canada and Europe. He teaches art classes at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Rutgers University and he is a commissioner at the Barron Art CenterinWoodbridgeNJ
“China Girl”
“Freddy Mercury”
“Boxcar”
“...symbolism and mythology of ancient cultures...”
My name is Paul DeSaro and my company name is Exotic Wood Pens I have been a woodworker for over 40 yearswith10yearsofexperiencemaking handcraftedwoodpens,Iusewoodfrom variouscountriessuchasSouthAmerica, Africa, Israel and Cedar Wood from Bermuda. Locally, I have wood from Holmdel Park, Apple Wood from Colts Neck and Peach Wood from Manahawkin. Other places include Birch Wood from Maine, Mango Wood from Hawaii. In addition, I have received branches from people who want to preserve memories of places lived or piecesoffurniturethatareofsentimental value. All pens are individually crafted, finished with a high gloss polish and assembledbyhand
ROBERT DIKEN
APPEARING AT BARRONFEST 2025
“.
. .spontaneous. . .explorative art. . .”
Robert is a self-taught American artist who uses a wide variety of materials to create spontaneous, explorative art and enjoys experimentingmaking2Dand3Dworks,includingpaintings,collage,assemblage,sculpture,ceramicsandphotography.Robert is also the owner of Basecamp Studio & Gallery which offers a diverse range of artistic 3 experiences. The space functions as a gallery for solo and group exhibitions, a retail venue, a workshop space for learning and skill-sharing and a gathering place for communityeventscenteredaroundcreativedialogueandexpression.
Alittleaboutmyself.MynameisJessieandIbecamedisabledaftera motor vehicle accident in 2017. Trying to find ways to navigate PTSD, I decided to open up the craft side of me once again. I started with painting, but it became too much for my neck to handle. So, a little over a year ago, I started doing diamond art and found that there are a lot of great things besides just pictures to create. There's a lot of amazing accessories and home decor I found I could do that worked better to my injuries, so I decided to make a business out of it! Along with the business side of this, I also create certain diamond art pieces that are used to raise money for a local animal shelter eachyear.
ROBIN FREEMAN
Robin Freeman is a resident of Woodbridge Township and has been doing crafting for over 30 years. She was a fine arts major in college and had been making unique wreaths, and towers based on holiday themes
Amy Freyberger is a local painter who currently resides in Edison, NJ with her husband and four children. She works as the director of a nonprofit in New Brunswick. Due to the many hats she wears in life, progress on her artwork is slow but steady. Amy enjoys attempting to capture the beauty of the natural world through acrylic and watercolor landscapes. Because it is often impossible to capture nature's beauty in a realistic form, she instead tries to capture the feeling of awe evoked when observing nature through semi-abstract landscapes. Amy attended Princeton University to study Psychology, but also took several art history classes while there, along with a single class "Introduction to Painting." She has been working on finding her art style and honing her craft ever since, in between rocking a baby, of course.
I'm a fine artist specializing in painting and tactile art. I’ve been deafblind since I was born. I create my art by touching/feeling objects, looking at them enlarged on my computer (I can see a little in one eye), and using tools and materials to make textures. Making art gives me a sense of calm and peace. I hope people find a lot of details to look at and to touch in my work; and that they appreciate the feelings and emotions in all my art. My art has been exhibited at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts, and galleries/shows throughoutNewJersey.Fiveofmytactileartsareondisplay at the Helen Keller National Center Technology Center. I earned my Bachelor of Fine Art degree (2019) and my master’sinstudioartfromNJCU(2022).
“New Jersey Lighthouse Note Cards”
“Alone Tree”
“Tactile Tree 2ft with Turtle”
“Country Chicken”
“Changing Leaves”
“Love My Garden”
“My Tactile World”
DIANA GALLAGHER
“...terracottapotanimals.”
My name is Diana Gallagher. I make small terra cotta pot animals. Mixed media Faux fur, Clay,and paint. I make Horses, Clydesdale Horses, Unicorns, Highland Cows , Giraffes, and Cats.
LINDA GELBARD
APPEARING AT BARRONFEST 2025
I have always loved designing jewelry. I have been working with polymer clay for several years to create jewelry pieces.Itisachallengingandcreativemedium.Polymerclayistheperfectmediumforexperimentingandexploring, which is at the core of my work. I have studied at Parsons School of Design, SVA and the 92nd Street Y Art Center. I have sold my jewelry in stores and privately. I have been creating art my entire life. I have worked in many mediums over the years including paper mache, cut paper and printmaking. I have done illustrations for books and magazines. My prints have been in shows and my paper mache was sold through craft galleries. Prints have been soldtoacollector
“. . .experimenting and exploring. . . is at the core ofmywork.”
Sophia is an abstract artist based in New Jersey. A firstgeneration American and lifelong creative, she has a formal background in journalism, history, and advertising, all of which inform her intuitive art practice. Sophia's work seeks to express the universal sense of overwhelm and wonder that often coexist in modern life. The intersecting themes she is inspired by and continues to explore include motherhood, creativematuration,andcollectivegrief.
Artist Contact Information
Artist Name: Sophia Guerreiro Cohen
Artist’s Medium: Acrylics
Email: sophiagcohenart@gmail.com
Available for Commissions
Prices Available Upon Request
“. . .custom and unique decor. . .”
AHusbandandWifeTeamRaised in Middlesex County. We are selftaught Artist/Crafters. We create custom and unique decor, using Pyrography,LaserArtandFractal burning. We love meeting new peopleandcreatingone-of-a-kind pieces.Inoursparetimeweenjoy spending time with family and friends, and our beautiful AustralianShepherds.
ArtistContactInformation
ArtistName:William&NancyHiggins
“HigginsFamilyCustomDesign”
Artist’sMedium:Wood
“Wooden Flag”
“Flag Solar Light”
“Fractal Burned Bench”
“Fractal Burned Boxes”
“.
C.a.rochet offers handmade crochet items, all created by Caroline (hence the name), who has been crocheting for about 4 years. Caroline initially started crocheting at college where she frequently participated in small community craft fairs. Her work mainly focuses on flower patterns, highlighted in her bags and cup coasters. However, she has explored creating various patterns such as mini pouches, wristlets, and scrunchies. In particular, she has a soft spot for keychains, one of her most popular items, whichhavevariedfromsmallflowerstostrawberriestosushiinthepast.Forinterestsincommissionsorfor questions,pleasefeelfreetocontact!
My name is Destiny Jure, and I am an art education major at Kean University. I specialize in crochet and fiber arts, teaching weaving, sewing, and crochet classes to tweens and teens. In January 2025,mycrochetgarment“FlowerPower Sleeves” was featured in the Vogue KnittingCrochetFashionShowBeyondthe Hook. I also specialize in caricature drawing, creating custom portraits and recently providing live caricatures at a school dance at St. Patrick’s School. Alongside these specialties, I enjoy painting, drawing, sculpture, and digital art. Whether in fiber arts, caricature, or the classroom, my goal is to inspire others to use creativity as a powerful tool for selfexpression.
“. . .creativity as a powerful tool for self-expression.”
ILANA KAMENETSKY
AMEL KHOLAIF
“...hardhittingnarrative...”
Amel Kholaif is an Egyptian-American artist from Woodbridge, New Jersey. She has a BFA in Visual Arts at Mason Gross School of the Arts, with a concentration in printmaking. Her main areas of focus include printmaking, painting, and drawing. Before college, she had worked to teach herself how to draw, working with limited materials. Because of this, she appreciates the connections and conversations she can have with other artists about the work that they’re making. Her practice is currently focused on two broad themes: horror and humor. In some works, they interact with one another, though she also considers themseparatebodiesofthoughtfromoneanother.Forher, humor—or an echo of it—is a way to trick the viewer in ordertorevealahard-hittingnarrativeinthework.
“.
I amaself‐taughtwatercolorartistwhosejourneybeganasaformofrelaxationduringtheCOVID‐19pandemicand hassincegrownintoafull‐timepassion.AftermorethanadecadeoflivingwithPTSD,Ifoundthatpaintingplayeda keyroleinhelpingmecopeandheal.Mystyleleanstowardrealism,andwhilewatercolorremainsmyprimary medium,Ialsoenjoyexploringothermediaformstoexpandmycreativeboundaries.Ihaveexhibitedmyartworkin Brampton,Ontario,andcontinuetogrowasanartistbypushingmyselfbothtechnicallyandemotionallythroughmy work.Itakejoyinsimplethingsandhopetoevokehappinessandsmilesinpeoplethroughmyart.
“Prayers at Jerusalem” - NFS
“Mahabalipuram Temple” - Price on Request
“Ganesha” - NFS
“Indian Elephant” - $85
Mixed Media on Canvas - $55
GINA KREHEL
“JEWELED ART - HANDCRAFTED JEWELRY &
APPEARING AT BARRONFEST 2024
Meet Gina Krehel, the ultimate art and craft guru! She's been rocking her designer hat since 2009, curating and creating unique leather tassel earrings from fabric, wall coverings, and leathersamples.Shespendsher time at craft shows and pop-up events, singing in an acoustic trio, and runs a small reselling businessonPoshmark.
Martha Landy has been sewing since she was old enough to hold a needle. She learned from her grandmother, mother and aunts. In the spirit of original recycling Martha uses scraps of fabrics to create her designs. She bases her designs on traditional patch work patterns and adds her own modifications. She works exclusively in 100% cotton fabric. Although her items are useful, they are also decorative. A quilt that can be on the lap of someone in a wheelchair can also be wall hanging or a sofa throw. It brings Martha joy to seesomeoneappreciatingandusingherwork.
ArtistContactInformation
ArtistName:MarthaLandy
“thespiritoforiginal recycling”
“Destination Home”
“Goodnight Moon”
“Country Christmas”
“Dragonfly Garden”
“Snowflake Bentley”
KAROLE LECHOWSKI
APPEARING AT BARRONFEST 2025
I have flowerpots with faces of all kinds; hand painted with floral arrangements. Some of the pots are pottery with silk flowers and some with actual greens. I also have flowers, plants and Mason jars – painted with Floral arrangements. I also produce yard art made with glass bowls, dishes cups, etc. Mostly everything is made from recycled materials –Saving the environment. I am an elementary teacher for over 30 years. I create things out of ordinary items used in households, saving the environment as you might say. What I createissomewhatunusualandoftenunique.
ArtistContactInformation
ArtistName:KaroleLechowski
“...somewhat unusualand oftenunique.”
MARY MADISON-GUTTRIDGE & LESLIE MADISON
“CERAMIC CELLAR & CRAFTS”
APPEARING AT BARRONFEST 2025
“...playingwiththeclay.”
My mother (Mary) has been doing ceramics since the 1960’s. When I was born, I was constantly by her side playing with the clay. As I got older, I realized I enjoy not only ceramics but all types of mediums such as wood, glass, fabric anything that will keep me busy. We continue to concentrate on ceramics as our main medium but still incorporate many other things into our shows.
Artist Contact Information
Artist Name: Mary Madison-Guttridge & Leslie Madison
Marie has been a cornerstone of the theater and arts community for decades, bringing her extraordinary talent, passion, and dedication to countless productions. A musician and educator, Marie taught music for 38 years, nurturing generations of students and instilling a deep appreciation for the arts. She has also played French Horn professionally since 1973, earning recognition as an accomplished and versatile musician. Marie has served as Music Director for an extensive range of productions, working with dozens of theater companies across New Jersey. Her expertise has earned her the respect and admiration of colleagues and collaborators throughout the arts community. Her dedication to excellence has not gone unnoticed. She was honored with the prestigious NJMEA Master Music Teacher award and the Governor’s Award for Arts Education, a testament to her profound impact as an educator and her unwavering commitment to the arts.
Marie's love of animals (especially her Cockapoo, Cassie) gave her the idea to start a pet accessory business when the music and theater world was shuttered due to Covid. What started as a small fun activity to pass the time in seclusion developed into hundreds of carefully crafted bandanas and blankets that any animal lover can enjoy and outfit their furry friend. From holidays to sports team, cartoon characters to dog pattern favorites, shoppers are sure to find the perfect bandana!
“. . .capturing rich, rewarding and flamboyant colors. ”
Heda lives by the belief that painting is like meditation for the heart and soul: we lose ourselves inthethingswelove,andwefindourinnermostyearningsthereaswell. Heda graduated from the competitive Industrial School for Art Design in Kosice, Czechoslovakia, one of an elite group of 30 students in the country that year, to complete the program. Socialism requires students to work immediately upon graduation, so Heda landed a job as a graphic design artist applying her foundation skills to art in everyday living. She handdesigned wallpaper motifs, labels, vignettes, wedding invitations, and packaging for mass production,anddelightedtoseehercreationsonstoreshelvesinhertown. Always seeking life fulfillment, but without family or friends, Heda immigrated to the United States in 1995 and set about learning English. In 2004, while working full-time as a caretaker for the elderly in the private sector, Heda earned a certificate in print media and prepress and began drawing portraits, focusing on the spirit and personality of each person. In 2008, under the supervision of local artist Paul Cassale, she immersed herself in working with oil paint media. She has studied the application of still life under Patty Nebbeling, Murry Smith and Rick Perez. Currently she is attending the South Avenue Arts Studio, expanding her abilities under MarkSaenger.
Heda works primarily with pencil and oils and continues to learn other media. Her subject matter is varied and includes landscapes, portraits, animals and floral themes. She reflects humanity and passion in her work, with a goal of capturing rich, rewarding and flamboyant colors.Inthisway,sheisabletodisplayhercreativeimaginationthroughinnovativeexpression andisgrowingcontinuouslyasanartist. Every person has a different opinion of what is beautiful and likeable, and what is not. Come! Takealookforyourself–andseehowshe’sdoing!
“Kids with Bicycle Fishing”
“OldFashionedPantry”
“LBIHighTideMarshesHolgate”
“Purple Joy”
“Two Rose of Sharon”
“Crowns of Thousand Tales”- $660
DOTTIE MCKENNA APPEARING AT
“.
. .teaching and constructing. ”
I have been doing stained glass projects for well over 25-years after being introduced to the craft by a church friend. Early on I took a number of elementary and intermediate classes in the craft from the East Brunswick Rec. Department. I started in the beginning with little suncatchers and have now worked up through large stained glass panels, lamps and hangings we’ve used in church at Christmastime. I have been an exhibitor and demonstrator at the Middlesex County Fair for many years. As a demonstrator my role was to show the fairgoers the process of creating stained glass projects from cutting the individual pieces to soldering the whole offering together. I really enjoy the days I spend at the fair teaching and constructing. I have worked, for a brief time, in a studio helping to repair a damaged church window but my preference is panels and hangings of varying sizes. As future projects I would like to make some panels for the narrow windows next to my front door and stained glass windows for architectural use in residences. I have just begun a project to construct a large “Martin Luther’s Seal” to be hung in a Lutheran Church in East Brunswick By trainingIamaRegisteredCertifiedCriticalCareNursewithaBachelorofNursing Science degree from the University of Wisconsin. I also studied at Indiana University/Purdue University – Indianapolis. My specialty is Intensive Care and IV Therapy Nursing and I’ve worked in hospitals in Madison & La Crosse, WI, IndianapolisandNewBrunswick
I make crochet hanging towels for all seasons. Hang them on doorknobs,fridge,ovendoor,orabelthungfromyourwaist.They can be given as gifts for Christmas, Anniversary's, Birthday's, House Warming, etc. I also make handmade neck warmers for childrenandadults.
Artist Contact Information
Artist Name: Lorraine Mraz
Artist’s Medium: Crochet Crafts
MARGARETE NAPERSKI
APPEARING AT BARRONFEST 2025
Margarete Naperski is a mixed media artist, painting on canvas, wood and slate. Naperski recycles things into assemblages, recycles old books into new works of art, crafts gourds into sculptural works and creates all kinds ofartisticworksoncommission.
Born into an immigrant family from Austria, Margarete grew up around herfather'scommercialartbusinessin
New Brunswick, NJ, learning at his side helping to prep substrates, assisting in layouts and in later years creating signs Margarete perfected pottery making skills pursuing a Fine Arts degree in college, Margarete began mixed media and collaging later in life, benefiting from instruction from many teaching artists and art organizations. Her education presently includes ongoing workshops and personal study, while teaching collage, assemblage and clay.
ArtistContactInformation
ArtistName:MargareteNaperski
Artist’sMedium:MixedMedia
Email:mnapers@yahoo.com
AvailableforCommissions
PricesAvailableUponRequest
“. . .collage, assemblage and clay.”
“Ghostly Dogs” acrylic print on paper
Elephant ear gourd - 12" dia handcrafted gourd with applied plant material and copper wire
“Blue House 2" acrylic paints, inks, paste on fiberboard
“Steampunk Box” Wood box collage
“Gypsy” acrylic painting on wood
“Angel” acrylic painting on wood
I am a freelance nature and landscape artist photographer, who has called Central New Jersey home for over 45 years. Being a photo enthusiast, it was a long road from a 1960’s Kodak Brownie camera, through SLR film cameras, to now modern-day digital imaging, and post-processing, while going on brief getaways to grab interesting scenes. After retiring from a career in manufacturing quality control, I have focused more intently on capturing images of landscapes, wildlife, and historical architecture, throughout New Jersey, and beyond. My location has permitted many forays over the years, to different areas of the state, in an attempt to portray the uniqueness, individuality, and history, found within this often urban state. I enjoy taking photographs to creatively reveal some of my vision in the image, to bring the viewer closer to the beauty, often unnoticed, or hidden, in the world around us. In being my own fine art print maker, it is the nature of modern digital technology that all photos receive a degree of processing before they are printed. Some images are only slightly adjusted, while others have additional enhancements, using various techniques to create unique prints. Many of these prints have been available at various art/craft shows throughout the state, and through BobNovakPhotography.com
Artist Name: Bob Novak
“Skating Egret”
“Grey Towers”
“Snake River Overlook”
“Resting Hummingbird”
TYLER NUNNALLY-DUCK - “T PHOTOS BOUTIQUE”
APPEARING AT BARRONFEST 2025
“. . .soothing and meditative pieces. . .”
Tyler was born & raised in a small town in Kansas. She fled to the east coast where she earned two master's degrees and continues to teach high school full time while she pursues her greatest love: photographing the ocean. She has been published by local magazines as well as National Geographic, and had public art that was displayed in the New Terminal A in EWR (2022-2024). Tyler aims to create soothing and meditative pieces that can help you momentarilyforgetthechaosoftheworld.
“The Big One”
“Playa Gemelas”
“United”
“Sand Beach”
“Museo del Agua”
GINA PETRECCA
VIRTUAL CATALOGUE EXCLUSIVE ARTIST
“...enjoytheuniquenessthateachmomentpresents.”
My name is Gina Petrecca. I loved photography when I was growing up. I became fascinated with preserving memories. I have tons of photo albums of my family, friends, and pets. I always make sure I take photos at certain events and especially parties. There are other moments I just love when they are not at special events and it’s a normal day. As I grew up, I knew I wanted to do it for a living.
I love taking pictures of still life, architecture, landscapes, nature, and animals. Anything in those categories I just love. I pretty much get inspired by colors, shapes, or anything different. My inspiration changes depending on the situations I find myself in. Sometimes an idea just pops in my head and I just do it. I feel every artist is unique and their tastes are different. I can’t fit myself in a category. I just do what I want and enjoy the uniqueness that each moment presents.
I like doing art exhibits with other artists so I can meet new people. If the opportunity came along where I could do a solo show then I would. I like nightlife scenes so I can be where people are. I want everyone to see what I can do and for my photography to be part of the environment, on the walls and enjoyed by people.
One goal of mine is to have my own photography shop and sell my prints. I also don’t mind having a regular job too. As long as I can still do my photography I’ll be ok no matter what I end up doing.
Mary Anne Picca has carried on the artistic creations her mother, Julianna of Julianna's Joys who started creative recycling 20 years ago. As a skilled seamstress remnants of vintage laces, ribbons and jewelry were used to design one of a kind jewelry boxes, Christmas ornaments and other artifacts. Mary Anne has added a new touch by making miniature shell flowers and incorporating them into her new pieces. These items have been shown through NJ at many juried shows.
MARLI POISLER
Marli Poisler is a longtime resident of Iselin New Jersey. She started to make jewelry as a personal hobby in 1994. After her friends started asking her to make them some of her beautiful pieces, she decided to branch out to local markets. She is completely self-taught and has won awards and competitions for fineartjewelryandhasbeenfeaturedinmagazines.
Preston Romanienko is a New Jersey based visual artist and painter born in 2000 from Olney, Maryland. He moved to Woodbridge, New Jersey in 2003. He received a Bachelor's Degree of Fine Arts in Visual Arts from Mason Gross School of the Arts in 2025. Preston creates drawings and paintings which contain elements of surrealism, world-building and science-fiction inspired creature and character designs. He is loosely inspired by H.R. Giger, whose work explored themes of bodily surrealism, nightmarish fantasies and resilience along with Mariusz Lewandowski and Zdzisław Beksiński, both whose work depicted atmospheric, dystopian surrealism. His goal is to make work that elicitsphilosophicalcritiquesofthehumanconditionsuchas;thequestionsandvalidation oflife,control,agencyandtheillusionofautonomyandfreewill.
ELAINE ROSENBERG “ELAINE DEE ROSE ART LLC”
VIRTUAL CATALOGUE EXCLUSIVE ARTIST
Elaine Rosenberg, a resident of North Brunswick, NJ, began art studies at Kean University, and has further developed her skills with instruction at variousartcentersandretreats.Ms.Rosenbergdescribesherart:
“As an abstract painter, collage and mixed media artist, my work is a harmonious fusion of textured and handmade papers, fabrics and unique ephemera from household items, fairs, and antique shops. Through their integration, a captivating low lying relief is formed. With acrylic as my medium of choice, my paintings exude intuitive and expressive movements,withvibrantcolorsandtextures.”
Been a crafter for about 4 or so years now, started out crafting with comic books and comic book related crafts but now found my footing when I morphed into the gothic and steampunk world. I now make a variety of handmade crafts that have a vintage, whimsical and creepygothic/steampunkaesthetic.
ArtistContactInformation
ArtistName:BrendaRubin
Artist’sMedium:MixedMediaHandmadeCrafts
Email:craftycreations74@outlook.com
HEIDI SANFILIPPO
APPEARING AT BARRONFEST 2025
“...rhythmsofnature...”
Heidi SanFilippo is an experienced artist whose practice spans mixed media, collage, and painting. Inspired by the colors, textures, and rhythms of nature, her work explores the connections between environment, creativity, and personal expression. Heidi has collaborated with the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey in Summit, contributing her skills to programs that encourage creativity and accessibility in the arts. She has also been actively involved with Mural Arts Philadelphia, both as a community volunteer and through the Mural Arts Institute, where she refined her skills in large-scale, community-driven art projects. Whether working independently or in collaboration with others, Heidi is passionate about using art as a tool toinspire,connect,andengagepeopleofallages.
ArtistContactInformation
ArtistName:HeidiSanFilippo
Artist’sMedium:PaintingandMixedMedia
Email: heidisanfilippo27@gmail.com
Website:Creativeescapes23.com
AvailableforCommissions
PricesAvailableUponRequest
WENDY SHERIDAN APPEARING
“...decadesofexperienceinfiberarts...”
Wendy Sheridan is an award-winning multidisciplinary artist and musician working in fiber, watercolor, ink, and acrylics. Her work has been recognized with multiple honors at the Union County Senior Art Show, including first prize in 2025 for her pen-and-ink drawing Broken Barrels. She was recently a guest artist at the Gallery on Main in Woodbridge, NJ. With decades of experience in fiber arts, Wendy will be the featured quilter at the Harvest Quilters’ Sharing of the Quilts show in 2026. She has also released two albums with Music for the Goddess and co-hosts the Leftscape Podcast.
Jennifer Salerno also known as Jetta Sky is a graduate of The School of Visual Arts in NYC. She obtained her Bachelor’s of Fine Arts degree in Graphic Design in the year 2000. She also obtained her Master of Arts in Teaching degree in the year 2014. JS was the recipient of the Chairmen’s Merit Award/ Scholarship for her impressive Fine Art work. From her early years of study there were many facets of “The Arts” that captured her interest, but her true passion was handcrafted creative jewelry design. Her handcrafted creative jewelry has been showcased in Dodo Magazine, in the Hillary Flowers Fashion Show, Mushmina Boutique, The Munson Williams Proctor Museum of Art Gallery Store, at the Junebug Arts Festival and BarronFest. JS desires that her designs will continue to enhanceandilluminatetoday,tomorrowandforyearstocome.
Tom Wacaster is a multi awards winning impressionist style artist. He currentlylivesinClark,NJ,withhiswife,Susan.HeattendedRutgersSchool of the Arts on a scholarship, but ultimately graduated from Newark School of Fine and Industrial Arts in 1965. Tom’s paintings have been displayed for sale in multiple galleries and in many art shows over the past 60 years. Whilehealsodabbledinengravingforatime,heoftenpaintedbothprivate and corporate commissions, along with his general artwork. Tom has also taught many classes and private lessons throughout his career. He has always enjoyed working with others and spreading his knowledge to the future generations of artists. Tom continues to have his art displayed in galleries throughout NJ, while he continues to place in art shows that he participatesinaswell.PleasecontactTomforanyinquiresonhisartwork.
I am a lifelong resident of Woodbridge Township, New Jersey. I was born in 1957 and attended Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York as an illustration major. Deciding I liked the fine art aspect more, I settled on pastels as a medium because I was tired of carrying wet canvases across campus. Sewaren is the subject of some of my paintings. I like to call them industrial landscapes.
In 2025 I expanded my artist palette to include watercolor and enjoy the artistic freedom it opened to me. Making the painting process more carefree. I am self-taught and use videos and articles to learn different techniques. Because the watercolorprocessisfasterandlessforgiving,itis easier to accept mistakes and more willing to discardunsuccessfulart.
I suspect that I will continue to paint both pastels andwatercolors.
I am a participating artist in the Gallery on Main, Woodbridge, NJ. I have been accepted and won awards at in the Pastel Society of NJ; Pastel Society of Pennsylvania; Pastel Society of Rhode Island and various other prominent Art Clubs and associations.
“Coi 3"
“Bicycle”
“The Good Shepherd”
“Porchfest, Asbury Park”
“LBI Shopping”
“Breakfast in Providence”
ENRIQUE ZALDIVAR
APPEARING AT BARRONFEST 2025
IEnrique Zaldívar is a Cuban painter and draftsman, graduatedfromthe“ElAlba”AcademyofFineArtsin Holguín. His work, which moves between surrealism and abstraction, is distinguished by an intense use of color—especially complementary tones—and by a restless brushstroke that conveys energy and movement. He has exhibited in Cuba, the United States, Canada, Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Argentina,Peru,Italy,France,andSpain.
Inspired by nature, shapes, and everyday objects, Zaldívar creates compositions that aim to move the viewer rather than faithfully reproduce reality. In additiontopainting,hedevelopsdrawing,illustration, and photography, disciplines that enrich and expand hisartisticlanguage.
Enrique Zaldívar es un pintor y dibujante cubano graduado de la Academia de Bellas Artes “El Alba” en Holguín. Su obra, que transita entre el surrealismo y la abstracción, destaca por el uso intenso del color, especialmente de los tonos complementarios, y por una pincelada inquieta que transmite energía y movimiento. Ha expuesto en Cuba, Estados Unidos, Canadá, México, República Dominicana, Argentina, Perú, Italia, Francia y España. Inspirado por la naturaleza, las formas y los objetos cotidianos, Zaldívar crea composiciones que buscan emocionar más que representar fielmente la realidad. Además de la pintura, desarrolla el dibujo, la ilustración y la fotografía, disciplinas que nutren y amplían su lenguaje artístico.
