Display set to run for one week
By: Stephanie Brown
MONROE Golden yellows, rich reds and a whole spectrum of greens.
Virginia Wong found inspiration for her painting of Chinese landscape titled "Look Down" during a recent trip to the country.
"One of the mountains had lot of wildflowers," Ms. Wong said while standing before the vibrant painting. "You’d be surprised, under the sun it’s just like a bouquet."
Ms. Wong’s artwork, as well pieces from 70 other township artists, is currently on display at the Monroe Township Library as part of the Monroe Township Cultural Arts Commission’s annual Juried Art Show, which features art in various mediums from stone to stained glass. It began Sunday and will run through Sunday during library regular hours.
The commission sponsors events in an effort to bring cultural arts to the community, but "this is the only visual arts show that we have the whole year, so it’s a very special event," said Commissioner Nancie Gunkelman.
Artwork submitted last week was selected for the show by Kenneth Kaplowitz, an art professor at The College of New Jersey, said Ms. Gunkelman.
"This is very typical of a juried show," she said. "It’s the prestige of getting in the show that’s the prize."
The commission set the library’s media room up to resemble an art gallery. Pieces were hung along all four walls, and several sculptures were positioned in the center of the room.
Resident Dottie Cooper strolled along the wall admiring the artwork.
"It’s wonderful to see all the talent that exists in Monroe," Ms. Cooper said.
Sunny Onish, a member of the commission, said the show presents an opportunity for artists to display their work in a tasteful manner and possibly spark creativity in others.
"You know this business ‘I can’t even draw a straight line’ is a bunch of baloney," Ms. Onish said. "You don’t have to draw a straight line. There’s charm in a crooked one, too."
For more information on the Monroe Township Cultural Arts Commission visit www.monroeculturalarts.com.

