There's A Little Known Unique Artist's Colony In New Jersey... And It's Truly Inspiring
By Kristen|Published May 10, 2016
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Kristen
Author
Kristen is a writer, editor, and social media maven who loves her state. Born and raised in New Jersey, sharing all it has to offer is her passion. After attending Montclair State University, she continued her education online, obtaining certifications in social media management.
Tucked away in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area lies the Peters Valley School of Craft. What started as a small artist’s colony decades ago grew into a spectacular non-profit, managed in part by the National Park Service. Secluded and surrounded by natural beauty, it is an ideal spot for inspiration and has become an internationally renown center of fine arts.
Located in Layton, the Peters Valley School Of Craft is comprised of 22 beautiful buildings, 13 of which are listed on the National Historic Register. Even more impressive may be the stunning natural beauty which surrounds this unique campus.
Peters Valley offers classes, studios and workshops covering eight different disciplines - Blacksmithing, Ceramics, Fiber Surface Design, Fiber Structure, Fine Metals, Photography, Special Topics and Woodworking. They help to preserve the history and craftsmanship of these often overlooked trades in a world where mass production by machines is the norm. Artists come from all over the world to hone their craft.
Visitors can enjoy self-guided studio tours, an incredible gallery with opportunities to purchase unique art in a variety of mediums, and an annual craft show which attracts talented vendors from across the United States.
While simply visiting this tranquil location, strolling through the studios and perusing the gallery makes for a day of fun, more immersive activities are available. Programs include summer classes and intensive workshops for adults, children's classes, studio programs, demonstrations and a variety of opportunities for artists.
If you're already an accomplished artist, you may be able to apply for a summer studio assistant position, residency or fellowship. As a studio assistant, you'll gain valuable learning experience. As a fellow or resident, you will spend several weeks or months on the spectacular property, focusing on your work or managing a studio. Lodging and meal plans are available.
Peters Valley is a magical place where creativity comes alive and everyone who visits is sure to be inspired. They describe themselves as "a gathering place for a thriving community of artists and environmentalists, thinkers and changers of the world." What could be more amazing? To top it all off, it is one of only several schools of its kind in the country, and it's right here in New Jersey.
Can you believe this incredible place, preserving the fine arts, is hidden away in the Garden State? Though I’m far from a talented artist, I couldn’t be more proud of this unique Jersey gem. Starting next weekend until the first week of September, self guided studio tours are available Saturdays and Sundays from 2-5 pm. I won’t be missing out on this serene spot, will you? To learn more about programs and events, visit www.petersvalley.org.
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