There are moments, rare for most writers, when a piece feels so complete that no additions could improve its quality or information. This holds true for last month’s Forwardian Message, so we are republishing it this month with a few minor adjustments.
We hope you’ll still find it an enjoyable, informative, and inspiring read, and we also invite you to join us in our future endeavors.
While numerous festivals, exhibitions, and eventsarestilltocome,wecan'tattendthemall.Therefore,weinvite you to share your experiences as a guest contributor. Your unique perspective can significantly enrich our community'sunderstandingofthearts.
Through your descriptive wordsandcaptivatingimages,you’llofferaninsightfulviewpoint,cultivatingadeeper, more comprehensive appreciation for the arts If you're interested in sharing, please reach out to us at submissions@forwardianartsorg
VolunteerwithTheForwardianArtsSociety
Like all groups, The Forwardian Arts Society thrives on thededicationandactiveparticipationofitsvolunteers Contributingyourtalentstoshareyourexperienceswithournewsletterreadersisawonderfulwaytoenhanceour publication,andsoisparticipatinginourmonthlyCovertoCoverCompetitions.
We are currently exploring sitesforourSpringArtExhibitionandseekingpartnerstocollaborateonorco-hosta panel discussion with severalartgroups.WealsohopetoreviveTheForwardianFilmFestival,Salons,andother past events However,we'llneedvolunteerstomaketheseinitiativespossible Weencourageyoutojoinwhenan opportunitythatinterestsyouarises
We understandthatbecomingavolunteercansometimesseemdaunting Somegroupsandorganizationsoverload volunteers, asking them to do too much. This has been our experience when we volunteered for others and we promise that won'thappenhere.Webelieveina'oneperson,onetask'approach.Ifmorepeopleareneeded,we'll recruitthem.
Despite several weeks of unfavorable weather, an eager crowd of music lovers gathered at Courthouse SquareinStroudsburgonThursday,July10.Theycame to enjoy a beautiful dayandaneclecticmixofmusic. This concert was part of the Borough ofStroudsburg, Pennsylvania's "Concerts in the Courthouse Square Series,"aweeklyeventheldeveryThursdayfrom6PM to 8 PM during thesummermonthsofJune,July,and August,weatherpermitting.
The concert also fostered significant conversation among attendees, whoexpresseddelightincelebrating anewseasonofcommunitycamaraderie Inadditionto themusic,guestsalsohadtheopportunitytoenjoythe many food and beverage shops around Courthouse Square and visit Clara’s Corner Library, which gave awaybooksforyoungreaderswhileraisingmoneyfor A.W.S.O.M., a local animal shelter. This made for an enjoyablesummerafternoon.
During the July 10 performance, Jonah Smith captivated the audience on keyboards and vocals, accompanied by his band: Brian Delaney on drums, Adam Chilenski on bass, and Len Mooney on accordion. Many ofthesongsperformedwereoriginal compositions by Smith, though he also played pieces previouslyperformedbyotherartists.
AbouttheMusic
Jonah Smith is a critically acclaimed musical artist who has released several records and has performed around the world. He has also been named a semi-finalist on Season 9 of the television show, "America’s Got Talent" To learn more about Jonah Smith and his music, visit his website at wwwjonahsmithcom
AbouttheVenue
The Borough of Stroudsburg, PA's Concerts in the Courthouse Square Series takes place every Thursday from6PMto8PMduringthesummermonthsofJune, July,andAugust,weatherpermitting.Thenextconcert was held on Thursday July17featuringTheChristian PorterBand(Anarticleaboutthisperformanceappears
laterinthisissueofTheForwardianGazette) Tolearn more about the BoroughofStroudsburg,PA,andtheir Concerts in the Courthouse Square Series, visit their websiteatwww.stroudsburgboro.com.
Textandphotographsforthisarticlewereprovidedby Paul Adam Smeltz (aka Paparazzi Paul) of The ForwardianArtsSociety wwwforwardianartsorg
LinkstoPhotographs:
https://photos.app.goo.gl/gd2uMqaUdkSy5nEA7
LinkstoVideo:
https://photos.app.goo.gl/bMxHza6abidrwGKS9
https://photos.app.goo.gl/DWjwzR6VW1CJnxqS9
TheDutot
TheAntoineDutotMuseumandGalleryinDelaware WaterGap,PA,hostedanArtist'sReceptiononFriday, July 11, for their "Darkroom to Digital" Exhibition, featuringthecaptivatingworkofSherwoodSamet The gallery walls were filled with a wide variety of photographic images, expertly captured on film and through digital techniques. The collection, compiled overdecades,showcasedthephotographer'sexceptional skill, ranging from intimate images of flowers to dilapidatedstructuresimbuedwithadistinguishedaura
AbouttheArtist
Dr. SherwoodSametbeganpracticingmedicineover 50 years ago as the first obstetrician-gynecologist in Monroe County, PA, where he delivered more than 5,000 babies Beyond his medical achievements, Dr Samet has also amassed an impressive body of photographic work, which has been exhibited in numerous galleries worldwide. His photographs are celebrated for capturing not only the essence of their subjects but also enhancing their unique qualities Dr Sametiscurrently98yearsold
Water Gap, PA untilJuly20 Itsnextexhibition,titled "AfterLight" and featuring the work of Adriano Farinella,heldanArtist'sReceptiononFriday,July25, andwillbeondisplayuntilAugust10.
AboutTheGallery
AntoineDutotfoundedDutotsburgin1793,deedingthe land upon which theboroughofDelawareWaterGap, PA,wasbuilt.TheAntoineDutotMuseumandGallery is housed in the red schoolhouse that served the community of Delaware Water Gap for 99 years (1870-1969) After the Stroudsburg School District closed the school in 1970, it sold the property to the borough for one dollar Today, The Antoine Dutot MuseumandGallerycontains:
The Museum and Gallery is open Saturdays and Sundays from Memorial Day weekend to Columbus Day weekend, 1 pm to 5 pm Please contact The Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery at wwwdutotmuseumorgformoreinformation Textandphotographsforthisarticlewereprovidedby Paul Adam Smeltz (aka Paparazzi Paul) of The ForwardianArtsSociety.www.forwardianarts.org
TheLittleBethelChurchinStroudsburg,PA,recently hostedanArtists'Receptionforitsinauguralexhibition on Saturday,July12,2025 Theexhibitshowcasedthe captivating work of Eric Goins, whose images encompassed everything fromtheserenebeautyofthe natural world to awe-inspiring man-made structures.
The event, presented by the Stroudsburg Little Bethel Historical Association (SLBHA), drew a significant numberofartenthusiasts.
TheexhibitionranuntilTuesday,July15,2025.While thenextexhibitionisyettobeannounced,updatescan befoundontheirwebsite.Thisexhibitionmarksanew chapter for the historically significant Little Bethel Church,nowalsoservingasavibrantcommunityspace forartsandculture
AbouttheVenue
Thevenue'ssignificanceisdeeplyrootedinthehistory of the Little Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Stroudsburg, PA Built in 1868 on land owned by Adam Kirk and John Hohanschield, the church was established in trust for the African American community of Stroudsburg. It was intended for use as an African Methodist Episcopal (A.M.E.) meetingplaceandschool
ThehistoricalimportanceoftheLittleBethelAME was officially recognized on March 19, 1982,whenit was deemed eligible for inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places. Following significant preservationefforts,thestructureofficiallyreopenedits doorstothepubliconSaturday,February22,2025
ThechurchisopeneveryTuesdayfromnoonuntil3 PM Formoreinformation,pleasevisittheLittleBethel African Methodist Episcopal Church's website at www.stroudsburglittlebethel.org.
Textandphotographsforthisarticlewereprovidedby Paul Adam Smeltz (aka Paparazzi Paul) of The ForwardianArtsSociety wwwforwardianartsorg
The Gallery at 530 Main in Stroudsburg, PA, hosted an Artists’ Reception for "An AWSOM Art Show" on Saturday, July 12, offering the local community a chance to experience its connectiontothe
animal kingdom The exhibitionchampionedover120 incredible and varied pieces depicting Dogs, Birds, Fish, Horses, Giraffes, Elephants, Snakes, Deer, Coyotes, Monkeys, Tigers, Lions, Bears, and cats, all held in support of the Animal Welfare Society of MonroeCounty,PA(AWSOM).
Attendees were treated to a special surprise upon arrival: the Pocono Wildlife Center presented an owl With two to three hundred people attending, the receptionreachedfullcapacity,fosteringamultitudeof conversationsreflectingthedelightandcreativeenergy oftheexperience.
AboutAWSOM
The Animal Welfare Society of MonroeCounty,PA (AWSOM), located at 3129 Godfrey Ridge Drive in Stroudsburg, PA,providesshelterandmedicalcarefor companionanimals,ensuringtheyarefreefromabuse, hunger, fear, and loneliness As MonroeCounty'sfirst no-killanimalshelter,AWSOM'sgoalistofindloving homesfortheanimalsintheircare Youcanlearnmore aboutAWSOMandadoptapetbyvisitingtheirwebsite atwww.awsomanimals.org.
AboutThePoconoWildlifeCenter
The Pocono Wildlife Center, located at 1161 Cherry Drive in Stroudsburg, PA, is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing local wildlife. They achieve this by providing a sanctuary for animals in need and fostering supportive relationships between humans and wildlife They also aspire to educate and guide the public towardsasymbioticrelationshipwith the area's wildlife You can learn more about The PoconoWildlifeCenterandalltheydobyvisitingtheir websiteatwww.poconowildlife.com.
AboutTheGallery
TheGalleryat530Main,locatedat530MainStreetin Stroudsburg, PA, showcases a diverse collection of works from local and regional artists. Their current exhibition, "An AWSOM Art Show," will continue to beondisplayuntilAugust30.Youmayvisitthegallery everyFriday,Saturday,orSundayfrom12pmto4pm Their next exhibition will be titled "LoveandPeace," and the opening reception is scheduled for Saturday, September6 YoucanlearnmoreaboutTheGalleryat 530 Main by visiting their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570946421461. Textandphotographsforthisarticlewereprovidedby Paul Adam Smeltz (aka Paparazzi Paul) of The ForwardianArtsSociety wwwforwardianartsorg
ThePoconoHeritageLandTrustinEastStroudsburg, PA, recently hosted anArtist'sReceptionfeaturingthe photographicworkofRayRoperonSunday,July13th The exhibition featured 30 images from the Poconos and around the world, captured using 'Terratracks,' a technique that allows for more intimate images of naturallandscapesandtheirinhabitants.
AUniqueGathering
Despitemodestattendance,theundeniablebeautyand fascination of the images captivated those present Conversations among attendees were stimulating, especially when several art lovers gathered to discuss the workandtheartsingeneral,greatlyenhancingthe reception We believe such interactive experiences wouldbenefitmanyart-relatedevents
AboutTheVenue
The Pocono Heritage Land Trust works to preserve importantlandsinthePoconoregion.Foundedin1984, theTrustbeganasalocallandprotectionorganization, established at the recommendation of The Nature Conservancy The Trust focuses on preserving large parcels (100ormoreacres)andhistoricallysignificant lands that represent the area’s collective cultural heritage. The Pocono Heritage Land Trust benefits its community,includingpresentandfuturegenerationsof residents, visitors, and tourists in Monroe and its contiguouscounties
The photographic exhibition featuring Ray Roper's work will be on display until July 31st. The next exhibition, featuring the photographic worksofSarina and Bob Cook, will have its Artists’ Reception in August For more information, please contact The PoconoHeritageLandTrustatwwwphltorg
Textandphotographsforthisarticlewereprovidedby Paul Adam Smeltz (aka Paparazzi Paul) of The ForwardianArtsSociety.www.forwardianarts.org
On Tuesday, July 15, artenthusiastsandcommunity members gathered at the Sarah Street Grill in Stroudsburg, PA, for a special Artist's Reception celebrating the incredible works of Myke Maldonado The event transformed the upstairs gallery into a captivating display, showcasing his twenty-plus-year career as a prolific comic book illustrator, artist, and tattooist through a diverse collection of paintings, prints,andcomicbooks.
Despite its modest size, thegalleryprovedtobethe perfectsettingforthoughtfulconversationsinspiredby Maldonado's art and for attentive explorations of his uniqueimages Ifyoumissedthereception,don'tworry –theexhibitioncontinuestobeondisplayuntiltheend ofAugustandistrulywellworthavisit.
AboutTheArtist
MykeMaldonado'sartisticjourneybroughthimtothe borough of Stroudsburg, PA, in2002,whenhemoved from the vibrant streets ofManhattan,NY.Soonafter, heestablishedDreamlandCreations,arenownedTattoo andPiercingStudio.Beyondhispassionforenhancing the human form through tattoos and piercings, Myke actively supported local emerging artists He championedthosenotwidelyknowninthemainstream art community by hosting several exhibitions in his studio, offering them a unique platform to showcase their work. Thiscontinueduntilmaintaininghisstudio became challenging Today, Myke generously shares his talents across the area, contributing his artistry to other studios like ALTAR Tattoo Studio LLC in StroudsburgandArtRage–TattooinScranton,PA
AboutTheSarahStreetGrill
AtrueStroudsburglandmark,TheSarahStreetGrill, located at 550 Quaker Alley in Stroudsburg, PA, has been a belovedeatingandentertainmentestablishment for over 30 years. Known for its inviting atmosphere anddiverseofferings,itdrawspatronsfromthroughout thelocalareaandbeyond Todiscovermoreaboutthis iconic venue, visit their website at www.sarahstreetgrill.com.
Textandphotographsforthisarticlewereprovidedby Paul Adam Smeltz (aka Paparazzi Paul) of The ForwardianArtsSociety wwwforwardianartsorg
LinkstoPhotographs:
https://photos.app.goo.gl/kkPh9uUrV2dphaxWA
ChristianPorterReturnsto theSquareCircle
The Borough of Stroudsburg, PA, presented The Christian Porter Band on Thursday, July 17th, as part of their Concerts in the Courthouse Square Series. It had been several years since Mr Porter performed in hishometown, and a multitude of people who knew him from "back in the day" and followed his career gathered in the town’s square to welcome him back, creating a palpable buzz of anticipation
Christian poured his heart into an outstanding performance, a cleardemonstrationofhisappreciation to the eager crowd. The show featured a captivating mix ofhisoriginalcompositionsandfamiliarfavorites made famous by other artists. His powerful, soulful voice and thoughtful renditions were skillfully enhanced by his accomplished accompanying musicians: Ian Kirk on guitar, Walter Lee on drums, and Jon Ventre on bass. Their musical skills blended seamlessly, creating a unifying melody through their livelyinteractionwiththeaudience,whoclappedalong andcheeredenthusiastically Theenergywasinfectious, makingforatrulyenjoyableandmemorableconcert
AboutTheMusic
ChristianPorterwasborninStroudsburg,PA,andnow lives in Nashville, TN. He demonstrated a talent for musicatanearlyage,whichhehonedbyperformingat open mic nights throughout the area. The encouragement he gained helped to further his career whenhecompetedinthefourthseasonoftheUSreality talentshow'TheVoice'in2013 Hehassincerecorded numerous albumsandperformedinmanyvenues.You canlearnmoreaboutChristianPorterandhismusicby visitinghiswebsiteatwww.christianportermusic.com.
AbouttheVenue
The Borough of Stroudsburg, PA's Concerts in the Courthouse Square Series takes place every Thursday from6PMto8PMduringthesummermonthsofJune, July, and August, weather permitting. To learn more about the Borough of Stroudsburg, PA, and their Concerts in the Courthouse Square Series, visit their websiteatwwwstroudsburgborocom Textandphotographsforthisarticlewereprovidedby Paul Adam Smeltz (aka Paparazzi Paul) of The ForwardianArtsSociety.www.forwardianarts.org
On Friday, July 18, enchanting hues of a summer evening bathed Delaware Water Gap, PA Sunlight danced on passing clouds and illuminated the streets, guiding art enthusiasts toward Orange, the town’s beloved coffeehouse. Stepping inside, visitors were
greeted by Orange's newest exhibition, “Black and White: An Art and Jazz Show,” a captivating visual counterpoint.
In a world teeming with color, black and white imagery uniquely compels viewers to delve into the interplayofshadowsandstarkcontrasts.Thisaesthetic also prompts an exploration of similar dichotomies withinoneself Despitebeingsurroundedbyaspectrum of colors, we often navigate significant life changes, perceiving them through nuanced shades of gray. The inherentbeautyofblackandwhiteartisticmedialiesin itspowertodistillascenetoitsfundamentalelements, emphasizing form, texture, and contrast Simultaneously, it evokes a profound sense of timelessness and emotional depth By stripping away the distractions of color, viewersaredrawndirectlyto the essence of the subject and the artist's profound vision.
The well-attended opening buzzed with lively conversation as attendees discussed the art beyond its surface The evening's ambiance was further elevated bythemesmerizingjazzperformedbytheJoeMichaels Trio.Discussionsrangedfromtheimmediateimpactof the exhibition to eager anticipation of the art world's offerings in the coming month, not only within Delaware Water Gap and Orange, but also across the widercountyandbeyond
Beyond the immediate experience of the 'Black and White' show, Orange itself is avibranthubinDelaware WaterGap
AboutTheVenue
O (aka Orange) in Delaware WaterGap,PAisformerly knownasTheGreenLantern(established1925)andwas restored by Samuel Saint Thomas and Sara Bauer The re-opened the establishment in 2024 as a coffeehouse OpenFriday,Saturday,andSundayfrom10AMto3PM TheirCurrentExhibitiontitled,“BlackandWhite:AnArt andJazzShow”,willbeondisplayuntilSeptember1.
Orange’s next exhibition will be a Music Theme Exhibition, held in conjunction with the 47th Annual Celebration of the Arts (COTA) Festival (wwwcotajazzorg), and scheduled to take place throughoutDelawareWaterGap,PAonSeptember6and 7.Theartists’receptionandmusicalperformancesforthe exhibition are scheduledforFriday,September5.Please explore their website at wwworangecoffeeartmusiccom for more information about their venue and upcoming events
Textandphotographsforthisarticlewereprovidedby Paul Adam Smeltz (aka Paparazzi Paul) of The ForwardianArtsSociety.www.forwardianarts.org
On Saturday, July 19th, The Connexions Gallery in Easton, PA, hosted artist receptions for two exhibitions simultaneously The first wastheir2025SummerGroup Show, held in the front gallery This exhibition, celebrating the gallery's 35th Anniversary,featuredover 70 pieces. Their second exhibition, "Scenes of Easton, 2025," located in the back gallery, showcased over 85 pieces and celebratedthecommunalbeautyfoundinthe City of Easton Together, more than 165 two- and three-dimensional works captivated the many art lovers whovisitedthevenue
The images, sculptures, and jewelry presented throughout both galleries displayed a diverse range of styles andaestheticapproaches.Whilesomeworkswere exquisitely created with a delicate hand and sensibility, othersexpressedtheunbridledpowerfoundintheprimal rawness of the soul's natural expression Enhancingthis vibrant atmosphere, DJ Big Sir of the Nite Liters provided a captivating soundtrack with his song selections.Manyvisitorsjoyfullyembracedtheemotional textures of the works, which made their subsequent discoveryofathirdgalleryareaevenmoreenchanting
Beyond the main exhibition spaces, a charming courtyard offered visitors culinary refreshments and opportunities for engaging and thoughtful conversation. A multitude of topics couldbeheardandenjoyedwhile exploringthemanymuralsreflectingtherealmsofpeace foundinnatureandwithin Spendingtimeinthistranquil garden enriches each visitor's sense of being, making theirreturntotheotherareasallthemorewonderful
AboutTheGallery
Connexions Gallery, locatedat213NorthamptonStin Easton, PA, captivates artenthusiastsandcasualvisitors alike with its visuallyappealingatmosphere.Inaddition toitsexhibitions,thegalleryhostsseveralevents,suchas Sip and Sketch and openmicnights Thegalleryisalso known for encouraging community engagement and collaboration among artists and art lovers Their 2025 Summer Group Show and "Scenes of Easton, 2025" exhibitions will be ondisplayuntilAugust9th.Youcan learn more about The Connexions Gallery and its offerings by visiting their website at wwwconnexionsgallerycom
Text andphotographsforthisarticlewereprovidedby Paul Adam Smeltz (aka Paparazzi Paul) of The ForwardianArtsSociety.www.forwardianarts.org
Linkstophotographs:
https://photos.app.goo.gl/gwRAxSHFnf8eNrhZ8
WeLookedatClouds
The Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery in Delaware Water Gap, PA, hosted an Artist's Reception on Friday, July 25th, for their "AfterLight" Exhibition, featuring the exceptional work of Adriano Farinella. The exhibition's cloud imagerytraveledfromoneimpermanentrealmtoanother, gently touching temporal landscapes, which inspired a meditative atmosphere for visitors While the reception was modestly attended at first, art lovers gradually entered the gallery and were captivated by the wonders theexhibitionhadtooffer.
The "AfterLight" Exhibition featuring the work of AdrianoFarinellawillbeondisplayatTheAntoineDutot Museum and Gallery in Delaware Water Gap, PA until August 10 Thegallery’snextexhibition,titled“Sideby Side” and featuring theworksofDorisCreskoandJoan Glusiec,willholdanArtist'sReceptiononFriday,August 15th,andwillbeondisplayuntilAugust31.
AbouttheArtist
Adriano Farinella approaches painting as a spiritual practice, creating meditative landscape paintings from memory and imagination. His paintings refer to a metaphysical 'place in time' andareintendedtoconnect the viewer to broad contemplations that simultaneously transcend and root them in the temporal world Mr Farinellahastaughtasbothanindependentinstructorand Adjunct Professor of Art at local universities in the Lehigh Valley for over 25 years. He has built an educational program titled “Studiowork” in Easton, PA You can learn more about Adriano Farinella byvisiting hiswebsiteatwwwadrianofarinellacom
AboutTheGallery
AntoineDutotfoundedDutotsburgin1793,deedingthe land that became the borough of Delaware Water Gap, PA TheAntoineDutotMuseumandGalleryishousedin the red schoolhouse that served the community of Delaware Water Gap for 99 years (1870-1969). After closing the school in 1970, the Stroudsburg School District sold the property to the borough foronedollar. Today,TheAntoineDutotMuseumandGallerycontains thefollowing:
The Museum and Gallery is open Saturdays and Sundays from Memorial Day weekend to Columbus Day weekend, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Please contact The Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery at wwwdutotmuseumorgformoreinformation ThephotographforthisarticlewasprovidedbyNancy Freeman and text was providedbyPaulAdamSmeltz of The Forwardian Arts Society www.forwardianarts.org
SpeakingSomePoeticPeace
OnSaturday,July26th,TheCreateandBeStudioin Stroudsburg, PA, hosted a powerfuleveningdedicated to mentalhealthawareness:"ThePoetrySocial:Speak Your Peace." The event kicked off with an insightful panel discussion on mental health, featuring several healthcare professionals. Sylvia Thompson, co-owner ofTheCreateandBeStudio,skillfullyguidedthisvery informative conversation, covering a wide range of mental health conditions and available treatment options.
After the presentation, attendees had the chance to explore the captivating art displayed throughout the studio and mingle Co-owner Courtney Lauren Natt, also known as DJ Natt FM Entertainment, set a welcoming mood with her music The artwork itself was quite unique,showcasingartists'interpretationsof films. These pieces often took an abstract turn; some were inspired byhowlightfellonanactress'sface,or howamovietitlesparkedanartisttocreateascenenot obviously tiedtothefilm Itwasquiteafunchallenge to connect the film to each image, and unfortunately, theartist'snameisnotrecalled
As conversations from the panel and art viewing began to wind down, Ms. Thompson cheerfully returned to the stage. She introduced Seth the Drummer, Michelle Rescigno, and their band, who captivated the audience withtheirsoothingvoicesand melodies Next, Nia The Song Poet delivered a powerful performance, her words andpresencedeeply resonating with thosemovedbyherhypnoticdelivery. ThreemoretalentedpoetsfollowedNia,whosenames, regrettably, are not remembered. Nevertheless, their meaningful words filled the room, leaving a lasting impression
Following the performances, Ms Thompson once againtookthestagetoexpresshersincereappreciation to everyone who attended and to all the talented individuals who shared their gifts. She then shared somefinalthoughtsrelatedtotheevent'sthemebefore sayinggoodnight
AboutTheVenue
TheCreateandBeStudioislocatedat8N6thStreet in Stroudsburg, PA.It'sco-ownedbyCourtneyLauren Natt, a social entrepreneur and creative mentor who curates stunning artwork, and Sylvia Thompson, a photographer who expertly hosts their events This vibrantvenueoffersavarietyofexperiences,including Music Showcases, Art Exhibitions, Karaoke, Dance Parties, and more. Both Ms. Natt and Ms. Thompson also lead The Culture Connects ArtsFoundation.This foundation champions diversity through the arts, working to build cultural understanding, provide safe spaces for mental healthsupport,andempowerBlack, Latin, and BIPOC communities through creative expression, art exhibitions,andcommunitygatherings YoucandiscovermoreaboutTheCreateandBeStudio and The Culture ConnectsArtsFoundationbyvisiting theirwebsiteatwww.createandbestudio.com.
Textandphotographsforthisarticlewereprovidedby Paul Adam Smeltz (aka Paparazzi Paul) of The ForwardianArtsSociety wwwforwardianartsorg
TuesdayAugust5th-TheEasternMonroePublicLibrary in Stroudsburg, PA will present a film titled, “The Fabelmans” beginning at 2pm as part of their Weekday Film Series. Admission: Free. Please contact The EasternMonroePublicLibraryatwww.monroepl.orgfor moreinformation
Thursday August 7th-TheBoroughofStroudsburg,PA will present Tom Graham beginning at 6pm as part of their Concerts in the Courthouse Square Series.
Admission: Free. Please contact The Borough of Stroudsburg, PA at wwwstroudsburgborocom for more information.
SaturdayAugust9th-TheArteryGalleryinMilford,PA will hold an Artists’ Reception beginning at 6pm featuring the works of Kate Horan and Laura Lippay Admission:Free.Theexhibitionwillcontinuetobeon displayuntilSeptember8th.PleasecontactTheArtery Gallery at www.arterygallerymilford.com for more information.
Sunday August 10th - The Grey Towers, NHS, in Milford PA will hold an ice cream social with kids performances, activities, and a Gaelic music concert Admission: Free. Please contact The Grey Towers at www.greytowers.orgformoreinformation.
Sunday August 10th - The 20th Annual Bushkill Blues FestivalwilltakeplaceatTheLehmanTownshipParkin Bushkill,PAbeginningat1pm Admission:Free.Please contact The Bushkill Blues Festival at sheilamarkproductions@live.comformoreinformation.
Sunday August 10th - The Eastern Monroe Public Library in Stroudsburg, PA will present a film titled, “Paint” beginning at 2pm as part of their Sunday Film Series Admission: Free. Please contact The Eastern Monroe Public Library at wwwmonroeplorg for more information.
Sunday August 10th - The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain in DelawareWaterGap,PAwillpresentTony Dellaria and Friends beginning at 6pm as part of their SummerGazeboConcertSeries Theconcertwillbeheld inside in case of rain. Admission: Free. Please contact JimDellariaofThePresbyterianChurchoftheMountain atdellaria@gmail.comformoreinformation.
Sunday August 10th - Orange CoffeehouseinDelaware Water Gap, PA will present Rising Star Noah Guthrie beginning at 6pm Admission: $19.45. Please contact Orange at www.orangecoffeeartmusic.com for more information.
MondayAugust11th-ThePoconoCinemaandCultural Center in East Stroudsburg, PA will present PopCorn Poetry hosted by The Carlton and Brianna Booker at 7pm Admission Fee: Free. Please contact ThePocono Cinema and Cultural Center at www.poconocinema.org formoreinformation.
Monday August 11th - The Sherman Theater in Stroudsburg, PA will present Toast – Tribute to Bread beginning at 7pm. Admission: $31 to $68.83. Please contact The Sherman Theater at www.shermantheater.comformoreinformation.
ThursdayAugust14th-TheBoroughofStroudsburg,PA will present Serene Greene beginning at 6pm aspartof their Concerts in the Courthouse Square Series Admission: Free. Please contact The Borough of Stroudsburg, PA at www.stroudsburgboro.com for more information.
Friday August 15th - The Antoine Dutot Museum and GalleryinDelawareWaterGap,PAwillholdanArtists’ ReceptionfortheirSidebySideExhibitionfeaturingthe work of Doris Cresko and Joan Glusiec beginning at 7pm. Admission: Free. The Exhibition will be on display until August 31st. Please contact The Antoine DutotMuseumandGalleryatwwwdutotmuseumorgfor moreinformation
August 15th - The 15th Edition of the New HopeFilm Festival will take place at TheNewHopeArtCenterin New Hope, PA. Admission: Varies. The Festival will continue until August 24th. Please contact The New HopeFilmFestivalatwwwnewhopefilmfestivalcomfor moreinformation
SaturdayAugust16th-TheUpfrontExhibitionSpacein Port Jervis, NY will holdanArtists’Receptionfortheir Late Summer Late Summer Show beginning 1pm. Admission: Free. The exhibition will be on Display until September. PleasecontactTheUpfrontExhibition Space at Gordon31jersey@gmailcom for more information.
Saturday August 16th - The PoconoCenterfortheArts will hold an Artists’ Reception for their Summer inthe Poconos Exhibition beginning at 2pm at the Eastern Monroe Public Library in Stroudsburg, PA Admission Free. The exhibition will be on display until September 6th. Please contact The Pocono Center for the Arts at www.poconocenterforthearts.org for more information.
Saturday August 16th - The Modern Fossils (MFA) GalleryinFrenchtown,NJwillholdanArtists’Reception for their Create ThatTuneExhibitionbeginningat3pm Admission:Free.Theexhibitionwillcontinuetobeon display until September 28th. Please contact The ModernFossils(MFA)Galleryatwww.modernfossils.net formoreinformation
SaturdayAugust16th-TheKindredSpiritsArtsProgram willpresentMarianneSolivanQfeaturinganeveningof Jazz at The Grey Towers, N.H.S., in Milford. PA beginningat5:30pm.Admission:$28.52.Pleasecontact The Kindred Spirits Arts Program at www.kindredspiritsarts.orgformoreinformation.
Sunday August 17th - The Outcropswillperformatthe Ann Street Memorial Park in Milford, PA beginning at 2pm as part of the Borough’s Parks and Recreation’s Music In TheParkSummerConcertSeries.Admission: Free. Please Contact Milford PA Music In The Park at wwwfacebookcom/profilephp?id=61574326292627 for moreinformation
Sunday August 17th - The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain in Delaware Water Gap, PAwillpresenttheir Artists in Residence featuring the Church of the MountainMusiciansandTalentbeginningat6pmaspart oftheirSummerGazeboConcertSeries Theconcertwill be held inside in case of rain Admission:Free.Please contact Jim Dellaria of The Presbyterian Church of the Mountainatdellaria@gmail.comformoreinformation.
Sunday August 17th - The Sherman Theater in Stroudsburg,PAwillpresentMattFraser:America'sTop Psychic Medium beginning at 3pm Admission: $49.50 to $182. Please contact The Sherman Theater at wwwshermantheatercomformoreinformation
WednesdayAugust20th-ThePoconoCenterfortheArts willpresentTheDrinkwaterBrothersatTheStroudsmoor CountryInninStroudsburg,PAaspartoftheir"Musicin the Moor" Series in its SCI Pavilion beginning at 4pm Admission: $20.00. Please contact The Pocono Center for theArtsatwww.poconocenterforthearts.orgformore information.
ThursdayAugust21st-TheBoroughofStroudsburg,PA willpresentSolKatanabeginningat6pmaspartoftheir Concerts in the Courthouse Square Series Admission: Free. PleasecontactTheBoroughofStroudsburg,PAat www.stroudsburgboro.comformoreinformation.
FridayAugust22nd-TheEasternMonroePublicLibrary in Stroudsburg, PA will present Ron Drotos performing MusicoftheGreatJazzPianistsbeginningat7pm(doors open at 6:30pm) as part of their Bookhouse Series Admission: Free Please contact The Eastern Monroe Public Library at www.monroepl.org for more information.
Friday August 22nd - The Upfront Exhibition Space in Port Jervis, NY will present Beledo’s Mechanism featuringEmedinRiverabeginningat7pmaspartoftheir GroovePortSeries.Admission:$20.PleasecontactThe UpfrontExhibitionSpaceatGordon31jersey@gmail.com formoreinformation.
Friday August 22nd - The Shawnee Playhouse in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA will present their Short Original Play (S.O.P.S) Festival for 2025. Admission: $13.00 - $28.00. The production will continue until August 24th. Please contact the Shawnee Playhouse at wwwshawneeplayhouseorgformoreinformation
Friday August 22nd-TheLevittPavilionSteelStacksin Bethlehem, PA will present Cristina Vane beginning at 7:30pm. Admission: Free. Please contact The Levitt Pavilion SteelStacks at www.levittsteelstacks.org for moreinformation.
FridayAugust22nd-ArtsQuestwillpresentWeMayBe Right: A Billy Joel Tribute at The Union Terrace AmphitheaterinAllentown,PAbeginningat6pmaspart oftheirConcertSeries.Admission:Free.Pleasecontact ArtQuestatwww.artsquest.orgformoreinformation.
Sunday August 22nd - The Sherman Theater in Stroudsburg, PA will present The Cellar Dwellars beginning at 8pm in their ShermanShowcaseFacilities Admission: $15 to $21.10.PleasecontactTheSherman Theater at www.shermantheater.com for more information.
Saturday August 23rd - The Sherman Theater in Stroudsburg, PA will present their 90's vs 2000's Party beginning at 8pm in their ShermanShowcaseFacilities. Admission: $15 to $21.10.PleasecontactTheSherman Theater at www.shermantheater.com for more information.
Sunday August 24th - Orange CoffeehouseinDelaware Water Gap, PA will hold an Open Jazz Jam with Dan Wilkinsbeginningat1pm.Allmusiciansandsingersare welcomedtoparticipate.Admission:Free.Pleasecontact Orange at www.orangecoffeeartmusic.com for more information
Sunday August 24th - The Academy of VocalArtswill presentOpera-Pike-ParkintheAnnStreetMemorialPark in Milford, PA beginning at 4pm. Admission: Free. Please Contact The Academy of Vocal Arts at www.pikeopera.orgformoreinformation.
Sunday August 24th - ThePresbyterianChurchofthe Mountain in Delaware Water Gap, PA will present a Tribute to Denny Carrig featuring the Pretty Boys beginning at 5:30pm as part of their Summer Gazebo Concert Series.Theconcertwillbeheldinsideincase of rain. Admission: Free. Please contact JimDellaria of The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain at dellaria@gmailcomformoreinformation
Thursday August 28th - The Democratic Party of Monroe County PA will present their first annual fundraising concert at The Castle Inn in Delaware WaterGap,PAbeginningat6:30pmfeaturingtheR&B group Arum, Regina Sayles, and Jessica Delfino Admission:$50.PleasecontactThe DemocraticParty of Monroe County PA at www.facebook.com/monroePAdems for more information.
Thursday August 28 - The Sherman Theater in Stroudsburg, PA will present Blackberry Smoke beginning at 8pm Admission: $39.50 to $268.24. Please contact The Sherman Theater at www.shermantheater.comformoreinformation.
Friday August 29th - The Sherman Theater in Stroudsburg, PA will present Ripper's Tomb Takeover beginningat8pmintheirShermanShowcaseFacilities Admission:$15to$21.10.PleasecontactTheSherman Theater at www.shermantheater.com for more information.
Friday August 29th - TheLevittPavilionSteelStacks in Bethlehem, PA will present Alexis Cunningham beginning at7:30pm Admission:Free.Pleasecontact The Levitt Pavilion SteelStacks at www.levittsteelstacks.orgformoreinformation.
SaturdayAugust30th-StroudFest2025willtakeplace throughout the Borough of Stroudsburg,PAbeginning at11am Admission:Free.PleasecontactTheSherman Theater at wwwshermantheatercom for more information.
Saturday August 30th - The Rebel Stage Players and theSchoolforVisualandPerformingArtswillholdan Open House at their new location in Stroudsburg, PA beginningat11am Admission:Free.Therewillbean additional event on September 6th. Please contact The Rebel Stage Players at www.rebelstages.com for moreinformation.
ONGOINGEVENTS
The ArtsQuest Ceramics Studio in Allentown PAwill hold classesinCeramicsforPre-TeensandTeenswith Ellen Jamiolkowski until August 6th. Please Contact TheArtsQuestVisualArtsprogrammingDepartmentat www.artsquest.org/visual-artsformoreinformation.
The Connexions Gallery in Easton, PA will present their 4th Annual Scenes of Easton Exhibition until August9th.PleasecontactTheConnexionsGalleryat www.connexionsgallery.comformoreinformation.
The 42nd Musikfest features a festival offering over 500 free performances across 16 stages located throughout both the north and south-sides of Bethlehem, PA until August10th.PleasecontactThe 42nd Musikfest at wwwmusikfestorg for more information.
The Shawnee Playhouse in ShawneeonDelaware,PA will present their production of “Nunsense” until August14th PleasecontactTheShawneePlayhouseat wwwshawneeplayhouseorgformoreinformation
The Shawnee Playhouse in ShawneeonDelaware,PA willpresenttheirproductionof“MeanGirlsJunior”as part of their summerchildren’smusicalsuntilAugust 16th Please contact The Shawnee Playhouse at wwwshawneeplayhouseorgformoreinformation
The Shawnee Playhouse in ShawneeonDelaware,PA willpresenttheirproductionof“Grease”untilAugust 17th. Please contact The Shawnee Playhouse at wwwshawneeplayhouseorgformoreinformation
The Gallery at 530 Main in Stroudsburg, PA will present an AWSOM Art Show until August 30th. Please contact The Gallery at 530 Main at www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570946421461 formoreinformation.
TheFrankBankoAlehouseCinemasinBethlehem,PA will present their Art of Musikfest: Musikfest Poster Artist Retrospective Exhibition (2019 – 2025) in The Payne Gallery at Moravian University in Bethlehem, PA until August 31st. Please contact Artquest at wwwArtsQuestorgformoreinformation
The Payne Gallery at Moravian University in Bethlehem,PAwillpresenttheirTheArtofMusikfest: MusikfestPosterArtistRetrospectiveExhibition(2019 – 2025) until August 31st. PleasecontactArtquestat www.ArtsQuest.orgformoreinformation.
ThePoconoCenterfortheArtswillpresent"TheArtof HeidiHooper"exhibitionintheAuradellGalleryatthe Stroudsmoor Country Inn in Stroudsburg, PA until August.PleasecontactThePoconoCenterfortheArts at www.poconocenterforthearts.org for more information.
The ArtsQuest Center in Bethlehem, PA will present their Mallory Zondag: What Lies Between Us Exhibition until September 14th. Please contact Artquestatwww.ArtsQuest.orgformoreinformation.
TheGalleryatChantRealtorsinLordsValley,PAwill present the work of Joan Polishook until September 27th. Please contact The Gallery Curator at mamajoan@ptdnetformoreinformation
OPPORTUNITIES
The Gallery at 530 Main in Stroudsburg, PA will be accepting submissions for their Love and Peace Art Show on Sunday August 31st (12-4 pm)andTuesday September2nd(10am–2pm) Drop-OffFee:$15for One Piece (CASH or CHECK ONLY – Checks payableto“FineArtsDiscoveryLLC”)Commission on Sales: 20%.TheArtists’Receptionwilltakeplace on Saturday September 6th and the exhibition willbe on display until October 18th Please contact The Gallery at 530 Main at wwwfacebookcom/profilephp?id=61570946421461 formoreinformation.
ARTEDUCATION
The Bethlehem Visitor Center at SteelStacks in Bethlehem, PA will present Improv 101 with Laurie Wagner StorlieandImprov201withDanielleTampier beginning at 7pm as part of their Summer's Comedy ClassesSeries Tuition:$179forgeneralpatronsand $160 for ArtsQuest Members. The classes will continueuntilSeptember8th.PleasecontactArtquest atwww.ArtsQuest.orgformoreinformation.
Monday August 11th - The Bethlehem Area Public Library in Bethlehem, PA will hold a class titled, “RevisingYourBook”withRobinGow.PleaseContact TheArtsQuestVisualArtsprogrammingDepartmentat www.artsquest.org/visual-artsformoreinformation.
TuesdayAugust12th-TheArtsQuestCeramicsStudio in Allentown PAwillholdPrintedCeramicTilesclass with Nicole Gencarelli The Classes will continue until August 26th. Please Contact The ArtsQuest Visual Arts programming Department at www.artsquest.org/visual-artsformoreinformation.
Thursday August 14th-TheBethlehemVisitorCenter atSteelStacksinBethlehem,PAwillholdaclasstitled, “Jump Start Your Book with Robin Gow Please Contact The ArtsQuest Visual Arts programming Department at www.artsquest.org/visual-arts for more information.
WednesdayAugust20th-AClassicBowlofFruit:Still Life Painting Workshop with AlexandraSchnabelwill be held at 520 Hamilton St. in Allentown,PA.Please Contact The ArtsQuest Visual Arts programming Department at www.artsquest.org/visual-arts for more information
WednesdayAugust20th- TheBethlehemAreaPublic Library in Bethlehem, PA will hold Watercolor 101 (Session B) with Rachel Cavotta. The class will continue until September 3rd. Please Contact The ArtsQuest Visual Arts programming Department at wwwartsquestorg/visual-artsformoreinformation
Thursday August 21st - The ArtsQuest CenterFowler Blast Furnace Room in Bethlehem, PA will hold a Wine'd Down Workshop: PA Wildflower Watercolors with Rachel Cavotta. Please Contact The ArtsQuest Visual Arts programming Department at wwwartsquestorg/visual-artsformoreinformation
Saturday August 23rd - The Bethlehem Area Public Library in Bethlehem, PA will hold the Bethlehem Historic District House Drawing PleinAireWorkshop (Chalk and Pastel) with Raymond Keely. Please Contact The ArtsQuest Visual Arts programming Department at wwwartsquestorg/visual-arts for more information
BEINCLUDEDINOURLISTINGS
We would love to include you in our Newsletter's Calendar Listings, if you would like to share your information with our readers, please visit our website andfollowoursubmissionguidelines.
THEFORWARDIAN FACEBOOKGROUPS
TheForwardianFacebookGroupsservesasameansto create an infrastructure to reinforce The Forwardian Arts Society mission to encourage, support, and love thearts
THESEPTEMBERCOVERTOCOVER COMPETITION
TheForwardianArtsSocietyisexcitedtoannouncean art and photography competition to select the cover images for the September issue of The Forwardian Gazette Seizethisopportunitytoshowcaseyourtalent andhaveyourworkseenbyourreaders!
First Place Winner: Your artwork will be prominently featured on the newsletter's front cover, and you will also be invited to participate as a judge for the SeptemberCovertoCoverCompetition.
You can read past issues of our newsletter and see examples of previous covers at www.forwardianarts.org/the-forwardian-gazette.
Submityourartandphotographytodayandshareyour creativity with our community, contributing to the vibrantpagesofTheForwardianGazette!
ONOURCOVERS
Richard Cramer’s photograph titled, "SnowyConcrete Structures:Alburtis-LockridgeIronFurnace,Alburtis, PA"hasbeenchosenduringourCompetitiontoappear ontheFrontcoverofTheForwardianGazette'sAugust Issue Congratulations
Eric Goins’ photograph titled, "Buds and Drops" has been chosen during our Competition to appear on the Back coverofTheForwardianGazette'sAugustIssue. Congratulations.
BECOMEAFORWARDIAN
Becoming aForwardianArtLoverisFreeandopento any individual who loves the arts and wishes to be a part of The Forwardian Arts Society’s Fellowship You’llfindmoreinformationat www.forwardianarts.org/join-us.
