Upcoming Exhibitions & Programs

About the Gallery

The 1978 Arts Center has served the community for almost two decades as a space dedicated to the the visual arts. Under the direction of the Maplewood Department of Community Services Division of Arts & Culture, it will continue to provides a forum for artists to work, exhibit and interact.


Upcoming Events at 1978

Silver-Based: Darkroom Photography from the SOMA Adult School
Jan
18
to Jan 26

Silver-Based: Darkroom Photography from the SOMA Adult School

Silver-Based: Darkroom Photography from the SOMA Adult School

Photography Instructor:
Richard Cutrona

Photographers featured:
Gianna Calvo
David Kroner
Kristen Brasil
Eva Oleszczuk
Briana O’Handley
Diane Iannacone
Aileen Calderon
Jason Brown
Ray Horner
Philip O’ Neill
Bob Maclay

Opening Reception Saturday, January 18 | 2PM - 4PM
Additional Exhibition Days:
Saturdays & Sundays, Jan 19, 25, 26 | 2PM - 4PM
!978 Maplewood Arts Center
1978 Springfield Avenue
Maplewood, NJ

Sponsored by Maplewood Arts & Culture and the SOMA Adult School

View Event →
1978 Arts Center Art Exhibition: “Ancestral Call”
Feb
2
to Mar 2

1978 Arts Center Art Exhibition: “Ancestral Call”

In Honor of Black History Month
1978 Arts Center Art Exhibition: “Ancestral Call”

Featured Artist Danielle Scott
Curated by Nette Forné Thomas

Opening Beer and Wine Reception With Live Music
Sunday, February 2nd | 2PM to 5PM


Free Event

The exhibit can also be viewed at the gallery on Saturdays and Sundays:
February 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, March 1st | 2:00PM to 4:00PM
Closing Reception March 2nd | 2:00PM - 5:00PM
1978 Maplewood Arts Center
1978 Springfield Avenue, Maplewood NJ

Sponsored by Maplewood Arts & Culture

View Event →

Studio Tour SOMA 2024
Nov
3

Studio Tour SOMA 2024

The 21st Annual Studio Tour SOMA 2024

Artist Registration open until Sept 4 2024.

November 2nd & 3rd, 2024
11am – 5pm | FREE Admission

SOMA Artists Studio Tour

View Event →
Reimagining Pain Through Art: Closing Reception
Oct
13

Reimagining Pain Through Art: Closing Reception

Reimagining Pain Through Art: Closing Reception

A powerful performance of autobiographical poetry by actors who embody individuals facing the challenges of rare disease.

Free event
Live Music
Refreshments Provided

Sunday, October 13
2:00PM - 4:00PM
1978 Maplewood Arts Center
1978 Springfield Avenue
Maplewood, NJ

This event coincides with the 1978 Art Exhibit Reimagining Pain Through Art

Click Here To Register

View Event →
Reimagining Pain Through Art: Meet The Authors
Oct
5

Reimagining Pain Through Art: Meet The Authors

Reimagining Pain Through Art: Author Talk

Featuring Authors Sybil Archibald and Mauvareen Beverley, M.D.

Sybil Archibald
While still in her twenties, Sybil Archibald was diagnosed with the rare autoimmune disease scleroderma and given five years to live. She credits the healing nature of making art with keeping her alive and going strong for more than 25 years. Archibald earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in medieval spirituality from New York University, and trained extensively in traditional sacred arts including medieval manuscript painting at the School of Sacred Arts in Manhattan. Archibald’s work has been shown nationally and internationally in museums, galleries, and universities including the Montclair Art Museum, Art Fair 14C, and Monmouth and Rutgers Universities. She creates out of her studio in Manufacturers Village, East Orange, NJ, and is encouraged by her husband, three dogs, and 12 koi.

Mauvareen Beverley, M.D
Mauvareen Beverley, M.D. is a national thought leader and expert in patient engagement and health equity. She has lectured extensively on health disparities, patient engagement and valuing the human experience. She collaborated with Westchester County Medical Society, Westchester Academy of Medicine, and Putnam County Medical Society in developing the Patient Engagement and Cultural Competence CME Training Program. Her notable publications include “Patient Engagement and Cultural Sensitivity as a Strategy to Improve Health Inequities,” which was published in the Journal of the National Medical Association, “Health Disparities and Epidemics: Perception vs. Reality,” and the scientific poster presentation “Solutions to Health Disparities: The Common Thread, The Human Experience” presented at the American Hospital Association (AHA) Conference in Chicago, March 2022.

This event coincides with the 1978 Art Exhibit Reimagining Pain Through Art

Saturday, October 5 | 2-4PM
1978 Arts Center
1978 Springfield Avenue
Maplewood, NJ

View Event →
Exploration of World Music
Oct
5
to Oct 26

Exploration of World Music

Exploration of World Music

The Community Coalition on Race in cooperation with Maplewood Arts & Culture present Exploration of World Music.

Ethnomusicologist, performer, and teacher Ahmondylla Best will teach SOMA residents the basics of playing a variety of world music instruments, including the Kalimba or thumb piano which was invented in West Africa over 3000 years ago and alternative vocal techniques.  This music experience will be held weekly on Saturday mornings in October including the 5, 19, and 26 from 10:00 AM to 12 noon.  All materials will be provided with a minimal use fee or option to buy for the kalimba.  Seats are limited to 20 people, so register now to secure your spot.

This class coincides with the 1978 Art Exhibit Reimagining Pain Through Art

Register Here

View Event →
Artist Talk & Spoken Word
Sep
29

Artist Talk & Spoken Word

Artist Talk & Spoken Word

September 29 | 2-4PM
1978 Arts Center
1978 Springfield Avenue

Renée Leviton: Artist 
Renée will be sharing two different - centuries old, oral traditions: Both express the themes of her (visual) Artwork in this Exhibit. 1) Spoken word: “Hope is Life” A poem of empowerment; woven of facts and vivid metaphor. 2) “Sideswiped”, my original song; expressing the power of persistence. Lastly: A brief sharing: being real about her personal “why“, what”, and “how”. 

Sheryl O’Connell : Artist 
Sheryl will be performing one movement piece and will be reading two poems written by Julie Lauton.

Deborah  Fitzgerald: Artist
Deborah will be singing a gospel song and reading a poem   

KRYSTLE BOATENG: Artist
Poetry Reading    

Genesis Jones: Artist - Author
Poetry reading from her recent book

Artist Talk & Spoken Word coincides with the 1978 Art Exhibit Reimagining Pain Through Art

View Event →
Reimagining Pain Through Art Workshop: Mandalas
Sep
28

Reimagining Pain Through Art Workshop: Mandalas

Reimagining Pain Through Art Workshop: Mandalas

Mandalas have been used for thousands of years and represent transformation, patience, and the importance of process
Learn about the history, benefits and how to make a mandala during this workshop. Mindfulness practices will be integrated throughout.

Light refreshments and supplies provided.

Facilitated by Tara James, LCSW, LAAT, ATR-P
Clinical Social Worker and Associate Art Therapist

Saturday, September 28 | 2PM - 4PM
1978 Arts Center
1978 Springfield Avenue
Maplewood, NJ

This event coincides with the 1978 Art Exhibit Reimagining Pain Through Art

View Event →
Reimagining Pain Through Art
Sep
12
to Oct 13

Reimagining Pain Through Art

Reimagining Pain Through Art

Reimagining Pain Through Art Exhibition @ 1978 Arts Center, curated by Maplewood Arts and Culture and Pathways to Trust, is a monumental event celebrating the power of art as a therapeutic medium and a form of resilience amidst adversity. This exhibition emerges as a platform that not only showcases breathtaking artistic achievements but also serves to unite the community through healing and support initiatives.

Exhibiting Artists are marked by unwavering resilience and creativity, stands as a beacon of hope, courage, and undying spirit. We deeply admire not just their artistic talents, but also their triumph over adversity, utilizing art as a powerful form of therapy and a means to give back to the community that looks up to you.


Schedule Details:

Opening Reception
Date: Thursday, September 12 
Time: 6-8:30 PM
Details: Featuring Pfizer
Performing Arts by Greg Burrus
Food Partner: Sandwicheria

"Paint Through Pain"  (Mandala Workshop)
Date: September 28 (Open to Public)
Time: 2-4PM
Details: A therapeutic Art session focusing on expressing and healing through art. 
 Supplies: All supplies included 
Partnership w/ Newark Beth Israel & Pathways to Trust 

"Artist Talk & Spoken Word"
Date: Sunday, September 29th
Time: 2-4pm

"Meet the Author"
  
Date: Saturday, October 5 
Partners: Sickle Cell Thalassemia Patient Network
Details: Featuring Sickle Cell Authors books where SCD is highlighted in
their stories

“Explore World Music”
  Community Coalition on Race  
Dates: Saturdays on October 5, 19, 26
Time: 10am-12pm

Supporting Partners:
https://www.maplewoodartsandculture.org
https://www.maplewoodnj.gov/government/public-health-social-services
https://www.pathwaystotrust.org
https://www.togetherforrare.com
https://caresparccommunityconnections.org
https://www.horizonnjhealth.com/ourplans/nj-familycarehttp://www.iamdmuse.com
https://sicklecellspeaks.com
https://www.communitycoalitiononrace.org
https://monalisaframing.com
https://www.rwjbh.org/childrens-hospital-of-nj-at-newark-beth-israel/treatment-care/child-life-services/expressive-therapies-programs/
https://www.maplewoodwheelhouse.com
https://homesalesbycaroline.com
https://artillerycreativecannon.com

All events take place at the 1978 Maplewood Arts Center
1978 Springfield Avenue
Maplewood, New Jersey


Additional Gallery Hours:
Saturdays & Sundays 2 - 4PM
9/14, 9/15, 9/21, 9/22, 9/28, 9/29, 10/5, 10/6, 10/12, 10/13

View Event →
Fluid Forms Art Exhibition
Jun
1
to Jul 12

Fluid Forms Art Exhibition

In Celebration of Pride Month

Maplewood Arts & Culture Presents "Fluid Forms": A Vibrant Exhibition Celebrating LGBTQ+ Artists

*** Artist & Curator Talk on Friday, July 12 from 6PM - 8PM ***

Maplewood, NJ - Maplewood Arts and Culture is thrilled to announce the upcoming exhibition "Fluid Forms," showcasing a diverse array of LGBTQ+ artists. This groundbreaking show, curated by CHS graduate, Cheyenne Allegra Ceasar of Newark Arts, Haus Allegra and Zakiyyah Williams, Manager of Maplewood Arts and Culture, aims to highlight the richness and diversity within the LGBTQ+ artistic community. 

"Fluid Forms" will open its doors for a grand reception on June 1, 2024, from 5PM to 8PM at the prestigious 1978 Art Center located at 1978 Springfield Ave., Maplewood, NJ. The evening promises to be a celebration of creativity and inclusion, featuring live performances and talks from notable figures in the LGBTQ+ arts community. 

The exhibition is honored to feature works by South Orange LGBTQ+ artist Luis Alves. A major part of his coming out was inspired by the 1978 arts community. "Fluid Forms" will offer attendees a unique opportunity to explore the complexities and beauty of LGBTQ+ experiences through various artistic mediums.

1978 Art Exhibition: Fluid Forms
1978 Maplewood Arts Center
1978 Springfield Avenue
Maplewood, New Jersey

*** Opening Reception June 1 from 5PM - 8PM ***
Additional Exhibition Hours on Saturdays and Sundays in June from 2PM - 4PM
6/2, 6/8, 6/9, 6/15, 6/16, 6/22, 6/23, 6/29, 6/30, 7/6 & 7/7

For a complete listing of all the events for Pride in Maplewood & South orange, please visit OUTINMAPSO.org

View Event →
Garden State Art Weekend at 1978 Arts Center
Apr
19
to Apr 24

Garden State Art Weekend at 1978 Arts Center

Garden State Art Weekend at 1978 Arts Center

Garden State Art Weekend, featuring over 120 museums and galleries across New Jersey. 

Join us, April 19th-21st at 1978 Arts Center, 1978 Springfield Ave., Maplewood, NJ, where we weave together the wisdom of experience and the vibrancy of youth!

Maplewood Arts and Culture proudly presents “Timeless Ties: A Generational Art Fusion.”

A statewide celebration of creativity. This special event shines a spotlight on the powerful collaboration between local seasoned artists 65+, and the Columbia High School Accomplishing Artists. Experience the magic of intergenerational dialogue as these diverse artists bridge the gap, sharing skills, perspectives, and passion. Embrace the beauty of inclusivity as we unite different generations, showcasing that art knows no age. Together, let's honor the past, imagine the future, and inspire each other through the universal language of art. Don't miss this captivating journey through New Jersey's thriving art scene – a testament to the enduring power of collaboration across generations.

Opening Beer & Wine Reception - Friday, April 19th | 4 -8PM
Kick-off the festivities with an electrifying opening reception that promises to ignite your artistic soul. 

Saturday Fun - Saturday, April 20th | 12 - 6PM
Saturday's focus shifts to the community spirit with local cultural food vendors, thrilling live performances, and a treasure trove of artist resources for all to enjoy! 

Closing Reception - Sunday, April 21 | 12 - 4PM
Join us on Sunday for the grand finale! Witness the students' brilliant presentations and engage in an engaging artist circle. Dive into interactive Q&A sessions and conversations with local arts organizations, students, and seasoned local artists. 

Garden State Art Weekend is a one-of-a-kind, state-wide celebration of art in New Jersey. The mission is to create an inclusive, once-a-year art weekend for all to enjoy, inspired by Upstate Art Weekend in New York. For more information, visit gardenstateartweekend.org.

Participating Artists

Sandra Charlap
Carolos Sanchez
Arlene Hirst
Lois Rubin
Barbara Schneider
Debra Stamm
Barbara Ostrowsky
Peter Astor S
Cathy McCoy Bristol
Sharon Murano
Roseann Laucirica
Lisa Novemsky
Rosa Aiello
Nette Forne Thomas

Eliane Wladyg
Mary Franklin
Francoise Moreau
Eastern Bluebird
Radishes Watercolor
Corinne Jin-Hendel
Samuel TaberKewene
Regie Deeble Jackson
Jordan Kinley
Hannah Edelman
Kathie Romano
Judith T. Kramer
Ike Hempstead

 
View Event →
1978 Art Exhibition: Embellished
Mar
2
to Mar 30

1978 Art Exhibition: Embellished

Artist Talk and Last Day To View Exhibit
Saturday, March 30 between 2 and 4.
Come and Meet the Artists!

In Celebration of Women’s History Month
1978 Art Exhibition: “Embellished”

Featured Artists Chrissy McIntyre, Erin Pickering and Liz Munro

Opening Beer & Wine Reception
Live Music With Classical Spanish Guitarist
JanetZa Miranda
Saturday, March 2 | 5PM - 8PM

Free Event

10% of sales go to Turning Point Community Services

The exhibit can also be viewed at the gallery on Saturdays and Sundays:
March 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 23, 24, 30, & 31 from 2:00PM to 4:00PM
1978 Maplewood Arts Center
1978 Springfield Avenue, Maplewood NJ

View Event →
Jazz At The Gallery Featuring Alex Desrivieres The Alleycatsax
Feb
25

Jazz At The Gallery Featuring Alex Desrivieres The Alleycatsax

In Celebration of Black History Month
Jazz At The Gallery

Celebrate Black History Month with the intersection of art and music, featuring Dynamic Saxophonist Alex Desrivieres the alleycatsax, and the works of local artist Tenjin Ikeda.

Explore how art and music can enhance each other, creating immersive and expressive experiences that stimulate the senses and enrich the soul.

Maplewood Arts and Culture in cooperation with Gregory Burrus Productions has curated a jazzy afternoon of live music during the 1978 Art Exhibition “Expressive Impressions In Linoleum.”

Jazz & Art Session 2
Sunday, Feb 25 | 2 - 4PM
1978 Maplewood Arts Center
1978 Springfield Avenue
Maplewood, New Jersey

Free Event

1978 Art Exhibition “Expressions In Linoleum”
Complete Listing of Black History Month 2024 Events

Sponsored by Maplewood Arts & Culture

View Event →
Artist’s Talk & Salon with Tenjin Ikeda
Feb
23

Artist’s Talk & Salon with Tenjin Ikeda

In Celebration of Black History Month
An Artist’s Talk & Salon with Tenjin Ikeda                       

Tenjin Ikeda is the current artist exhibiting his work at The 1978 Arts Center “Expressive Impressions In Linoleum”.
Join us for an artists’ talk and Salon.

Free Event

February 23 | 6pm - 8pm
1978 Maplewood Arts Center
1978 Springfield Avenue
Maplewood, NJ

”Expressive Impressions In Linoleum” Exhibit

Complete Listing of Black History Month 2024 Events

View Event →
Meet & Greet With Chef Jesse
Feb
13

Meet & Greet With Chef Jesse

In Celebration of Black History Month
Maplewood Community Services Presents A Meet & Greet With Chef Jesse

Join Chef Jesse for an evening of conversation and gumbo tasting, “Fat Tuesday” style.

Free Event - but please register
Click to Register Here

Tuesday, February 13th | 5PM - 7PM
1978 Arts Center
1978 Springfield Avenue
Maplewood, NJ

Complete Listing of Black History Month 2024 Events

 
View Event →
Jazz At The Gallery Featuring Nat Adderley Jr. and his Trio
Feb
4

Jazz At The Gallery Featuring Nat Adderley Jr. and his Trio

In Celebration of Black History Month
Jazz At The Gallery

Celebrate Black History Month with the intersection of art and music, featuring the iconic music arranger and pianist Nat Adderly Jr. and his Trio, and the works of local artist Tenjin Ikeda.

Explore how art and music can enhance each other, creating immersive and expressive experiences that stimulate the senses and enrich the soul.

Maplewood Arts and Culture in cooperation with Gregory Burrus Productions has curated a jazzy afternoon of live music during the 1978 Art Exhibition “Expressive Impressions In Linoleum.”

Jazz At The Gallery
Sunday, Feb 4 | 2 - 4PM
1978 Maplewood Arts Center
1978 Springfield Avenue
Maplewood, New Jersey

Free Event

1978 Art Exhibition “Expressions In Linoleum”
Complete Listing of Black History Month 2024 Events

Sponsored by Maplewood Arts & Culture

View Event →
Artists’ Salon
Nov
30

Artists’ Salon

Join local artist Ken Stanek for an Artists’ Salon at 1978 Arts Center featuring artist Helena Chywski exploring her creative process working as an artist with synesthesia.

View Event →
Open Gallery Hours & DAC Info Session
Oct
5

Open Gallery Hours & DAC Info Session

Attention artists, bands, arts professionals, creatives of all kinds! 1978 Arts Center is offering extended gallery hours THIS Thursday from 6-8 PM. Stop on by to see the “Ban This” exhibition. This is also a chance to chat with the Division of Arts & Culture about anything and everything. Interested in exhibiting locally? Come discuss! Want to book your band or comedy act? Let’s talk. Are you and arts educator who is interested in teaching locally? Come on over! Want to learn more about the Division and what we have coming up on the calendar? Here’s a great opportunity to learn more. Light refreshments served. Come and hang out.

View Event →
La Brujas Club
Sep
28

La Brujas Club

La Brujas Club

Celebrating Latinx Heritage Month

In celebration of Latinx Heritage Month, La Brujas Club presents "Poetry and Paint," an art installation that pays homage to women and queer individuals who have profoundly influenced us on a spiritual level. This unique art installation combines the therapeutic elements of tarot and painting, while also showcasing the profound words of Latinx artists. These words will be prominently featured for a 24-hour period, empowering participants to rekindle their spiritual connections and fostering a strong sense of community and mutual support.

View Event →
Ban This: A Group Exhibition Benefitting the ACLU Drag Defense Fund
Sep
22
to Oct 29

Ban This: A Group Exhibition Benefitting the ACLU Drag Defense Fund

Opening Reception Friday, September 22 | 6-9 pm

Drag performers and the LGBTQ+ community are facing threats across the county. In the face of these threats and censorship, you can fight back with the ACLS for the protection of all our rights.

The freedom to express ourselves and our gender identity in creative ways fuels artistry across our country and culture - and Drag is protected by the First Amendment like any creative expression.

Please join us on 9.22 for the opening group show featuring regional artists. All proceeds donated to the ACLU Drag Defense Fund.

View Event →

1978 Art Center Photo Gallery