Exploring the Arts in Atlantic City

Atlantic City is many things to many people. As a coastal New Jersey city, it offers plenty of beautiful family-friendly beaches. There’s its signature Atlantic City Boardwalk, the nation’s first Boardwalk and named the #1 Boardwalk in the U.S. by Fodor’s Travel, which features amusement rides and saltwater taffy galore. And then, of course, there are the many glamorous hotels and casinos. But AC, as the locals call it, is also home to a thriving arts and culture scene. Here, we offer three ways to best enjoy it.

With a mission to foster an environment in which diverse arts and cultural programs enrich the quality of life for residents and visitors to Atlantic City, the Atlantic City Arts Foundation has created free programming through public art, including the city’s largest mural arts program. Local, regional and global muralists are given full creative license leading to a diverse range of styles and content in the permanent public art across the 48 blocks of Atlantic City. With an interactive map to the more than 70 murals created by community members, visitors can explore the city and discover the unique murals up close and personal.

A cornerstone of the Arts District in Atlantic City, the Noyes Arts Garage of Stockton University focuses on promoting education, providing resources for emerging artists and enriching the community. The Arts Garage houses artist studios, galleries, shops and a workshop as well as hosting special events throughout the year. Here, you’ll find artists working on various mediums — ranging from painting and illustration to photography — in their studios.

Should you find yourself in Atlantic City in September, this free one-day event is a not-tobe-missed cultural celebration for members and supporters of the Hispanic and Latinx communities. This music-filled festival features live Latin music (think merengue, bomba, cumbia, mariachi, salsa and reggaeton) as well as folkloric dancers and some of the top Latino DJs. Explore authentic Latin American food from a variety of countries.

Heather Colache, 609-318-6097, heatherc@visitatlanticcity.com, www.visitatlanticcity.com/groups

BY CADY PRICE

New Jersey has plenty in store for art lovers. From sculptures to classic and contemporary art, or fine art and murals, East New Jersey has everything to satisfy art enthusiasts. These seven museums hold beautiful art that is sure to please your eyes and soul.

Hamilton Township

Take in the beautiful sculptures or show up at night for an after-hours light and sound experience. Grounds for Sculpture offers indoor and outdoor experiences. Travel through the 42 acres of landscape and peek at the exquisite sculptures that are scattered in the gardens. Or get out of sun and wander around the four indoor galleries that change annually. Take a self-guided or a tour-guided adventure around the serene landscape. Two new exhibitions, Spiral Q: The Parade and Local Voices will be available for viewing through January 2024.

Ticket reservations are required for entry.

Art at Grounds for Sculpture isn’t just for viewing, try your hand at making your own at ceramics classes. The museum also offers classes for education and events for all ages. Visit the museum individually, with your family, in a group or for field trip. (groundsforsculpture.org)

Jersey City

Hudson County is home to some of the most vibrant and creative mural art in the country. These murals reflect the community’s diversity and provide a unifying message of hope and inclusion. The murals are also a source of pride for residents and have become a popular tourist attraction.

In 21 square miles, Jersey City has more than 100 individual murals to look at. Many are part of the Jersey City Mural Arts Program, which aims to shine light on new artists and turn the city into a colorful outdoor gallery. The art comes in all styles and sizes and colors and is truly worth taking a journey around the city.

The Jersey City Mural Arts are a breathtaking way of reducing graffiti and engaging locals in art. Each piece is unique, and they are all worth a visit. Here are some of the most popular murals to visit downtown, Wendy at the Window between Grove Street and Marin Boulevard, David Bowie at 837 Jersey Avenue and Intuition at 172 Newark Avenue. (jcmap.org)

The Morris Museum offers a variety of elegant spaces that can host events both large and small. The museum showcases several permanent exhibits and others that change periodically.

Its permanent exhibits include the Guinness Collection (featuring music boxes, player pianos and mechanical dolls), Mega Model Train Gallery (a state-of-the-art train set containing 50 feet of O-gauge track) and Spark!Lab (which offers any child a new informal approach to handson learning). Each gallery includes interactive and viewing pieces, perfect for people of all ages. The museum also has performance and film art, for adults and children.

The Morris Museum hosts several classes for families and students. Student groups are also invited for field trips. (morrismuseum.org)

Filled with paintings, sculptures, photographs and more, the Newark Museum of Art has a wide range of beautiful art. The exhibits change throughout the year, each showcasing new art and themes. The Animal Kingdom exhibit will be available through May 2024 and exhibits a digital aquarium along with many other interactive pieces to enjoy.

The museum also has great options for groups and students. There are field trip and summer program options for children and teens and large groups can make reservations in advance. (newarkmuseumart.org)

The New Jersey State Museum is a treasure trove of art, history, and science. Located in Trenton, the museum offers a wide variety of exhibits and activities that are sure to delight visitors of all ages. From dinosaur fossils to fine art, there’s something for everyone.

Established in 1895 as the State Museum and Library, the museum is home to the nation’s most comprehensive collection of New Jersey artifacts. It also serves as the state’s official

repository for natural history specimens. There are great opportunities for enjoying art and learning. Explore the museum for free on your own or reserve a guided tour for groups.

The museum hosts plenty of educational experiences. Book field trips on-site or virtually. The planetarium offers shows for anyone to enjoy all summer and for student groups during the school year. Make sure to plan a trip for a fun, educational and eye-catching museum adventure. (nj.gov/state/museum/index.shtml)

Princeton

Princeton University Art Museum is home to a vast collection of artwork spanning centuries. From ancient artifacts to modern masterpieces, visitors can explore thousands of pieces from around the world. From its expansive galleries and educational programs to its history and significance in the art world, the Princeton University Art Museum is an incredible destination for art lovers everywhere.

Enjoy the exquisite art on display from female artists, Arts of Africa, Latin America and more. A trip to Princeton University

Art Museum is perfect for art lovers wanting a cultural experience. Exhibitions change periodically throughout the year, but there is always lovely art to be admired. The museum also offers programs for learning for students, adults and university attendees. If you’d like to be more involved, there are internship and volunteer positions available. For those who can’t make it on-site, there are online exhibitions and resources. Take an online painting or drawing class to better hone your own artistic skills. (artmuseum.princeton.edu)

New Brunswick

Zimmerli Art Museum is a large art museum located on the campus of Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey. The museum has a wide-ranging collection of art from the 15th century to the present day, including works by Monet, Degas, and Picasso. The museum also hosts a number of special exhibitions throughout the year. The museum has more than 60,000 pieces on display in all different mediums. (zimmerli.rutgers.edu)

From sports to industry, art, architecture and nature, a visit to Passaic County is revolutionary. Explore General Washington’s headquarters at Dey Mansion, see the rise of industrialization at Paterson’s Great Falls, wander the 96-acre New Jersey Botanical Garden, and more, all while enjoying local eats.

Marisel Sanchez

973-706-6640 ext. 2249 marisels@passaiccountynj.org

Seepassaiccounty.org