Maplewood art educator Susan Cohen Harris recently hosted a spirited 10th Anniversary Art Party to celebrate the first decade of her Art Studio, which teaches art to local children by providing an inspiring and inventive curriculum in a magical, cozy setting.
The party, held on June 14, brought together students and their families for cupcakes, games, a scavenger hunt, and the Spring Student Art Exhibit, showcasing drawings and paintings created by the studio’s young artists.
“It was so gratifying to see students return to the studio and be incredibly passionate about art,” Cohen Harris said in a press release. “Their parents were so gracious in the way they describe their children’s art and the fun the kids have had at our classes. Everyone’s support and enthusiasm is inspiring.
The studio is housed in a 106-year-old carriage house behind Cohen Harris’ home, which was restored by the artist and her family. In addition to regular art classes in the fully equipped space, the Art Studio hosts birthday parties and other events.
Cohen Harris credits the space’s creative spirit, as well as an inventive curriculum, for energizing and encouraging her students. She said she is amazed and grateful by the support Maplewood and South Orange parents show for their children’s artistic development.
“I am thankful for the opportunity to work with this group of parents,” said Cohen Harris. “They are interesting, open-minded, progressive people. I remember how fortunate I was that my parents sent me for art lessons at a young age and how much it meant to me years later.”
Alicia Duran, whose daughter has been a student for three years, said in the release that each class provides a new artistic experience.
“The projects strike the perfect balance between directed instruction and personal expression,” Duran said. “My daughter has learned invaluable artistic skills while developing her own personal style at the same time. An added bonus has been her exposure to world cultures and traditional art. I would recommend the Art Studio to serious art students and kids who are exploring art for the first time alike–both will find a welcoming and creative environment with Susan Cohen Harris.”
This reporter — whose two children both enjoyed classes at The Art Studio back in its early days — would second that!
To learn more about Art Studio, visit www.artstudionow.com. Art enthusiasts may register for summer camp, fall classes, birthday parties, parent’s night out, and the ever popular, Ladies Salon workshops.
