The second annual Art on the Porch is coming back to Ocean Grove Sat., June 8.
The event will build on its successful first year by adding 20 more artists to the gallery walk around the historic section of town.
Set up on porches using a variety of mediums of expression, the event will take place from 11 a.m. to 4 p/m.
Betsy Kaplan, one of the organizers and artists of the event, said that all the artists are excited to once again offer the opportunity to show their works to walkers, bikers and neighbors.
Most artists will be setting up on their own porch but several homeowners have offered their site for artists that do not live in town, happy to help facilitate the event.
“The artists loved talking to event goers,” Kaplan said. “And the event goers are interested in interacting with the artists.”
Unlike other types of shows, Art on the Porch is not meant to drive sales or commerce to artists but to offer a unique venue for people to show off their creations and be present for those who take the time to appreciate each small gallery.
“It’s about exposing their art to people in the community,” she said.
Kaplan said that all artists are talented but the level that people will see from this year’s offering will be impressive.
Painters will be prominent but Kaplan said that there will be ceramics, glass work, fine jewelry and other mediums available.
Last year was so successful that Kaplan said her committee had to put some artists on a waiting list for this year.
Kaplan said that Ocean Grove itself will serve as an important part of the event, allowing people to appreciate the beauty of the town in addition to the artwork.
“The aspect of going through the neighborhoods and seeing beautiful porches and how artists exhibit work is special,” she said.
The downtown Ocean Grove businesses will be even more integral to the event this year. Two prominent businesses to the cause will be Re/Max and the Great American Porch Company. Event goers can pick up maps of the participating houses at the downtown businesses.
Other businesses have made themselves supportive by placing their locations on the map as well.
Kaplan said that the Asbury Park Porchfest, which takes place each year at the end of summer, was a big inspiration to her and her organizing committee.
“I really thought it would be amazing to have artists on their porch with their art,” she said. “I didn’t expect it to bloom like it did.”
Kaplan is also thankful for her fellow organizers Katy Roessle, Bob Ellis and Doug Donaldson.
“It takes teamwork to make this event happen,” she said.
Although she will be displaying some of her work on her porch, it will be up to Kaplan’s husband to discuss the pieces. Kaplan will mostly be taking to the streets on her bike making sure everything is running smoothly. She will certainly be taking notes on how to continue the new tradition next year.
In the case of inclement weather, Art on the Porch will take place on June 9.